IIT Hyderabad Inaugurates CoDE Studio to Support Design-Led Innovation
On January 9, 2026, the Indian Institute of Technology (IIT) Hyderabad inaugurated the Centre of Design Excellence (CoDE) Studio, a dedicated facility aimed at fostering design-led innovation among micro, small, and medium enterprises (MSMEs) and startups. The inauguration ceremony was presided over by Jayesh Ranjan, IAS, Special Chief Secretary to the Government of Telangana, alongside Prof. B.S. Murty, Director of IIT Hyderabad, and Dr. Prasad S. Onkar, Principal Investigator of CoDE and Associate Professor in the Department of Design.
Purpose of the CoDE Studio
The CoDE Studio is designed to serve as the operational center for the Centre of Design Excellence while also functioning as a hub for training and skill development. This initiative has been established with financial backing from the Ministry of MSME, Government of India, and the Government of Telangana under the Raising and Accelerating MSME Performance (RAMP) program.
The primary goal of the CoDE Studio is to enhance the role of design as a strategic driver of innovation and competitiveness within the MSME sector and startups. By creating an environment that promotes design thinking, the studio aims to support various stakeholders in their entrepreneurial journeys.
Facilities and Services Offered
The CoDE Studio will provide a comprehensive design support platform for a diverse range of participants, including:
- MSMEs
- Startups
- Entrepreneurs
- Freelancers
- Students with entrepreneurial aspirations
Some of the planned activities and services at the CoDE Studio include:
- Skill development workshops across various design disciplines
- Craft documentation projects
- Hackathons and conferences
- Awareness programs about design and innovation
- Incubation and mentorship support
- Facilitation services related to business registration and intellectual property rights filing
Collaborative Efforts for Innovation
The launch of the CoDE Studio is a significant collaborative effort between IIT Hyderabad and the Government of Telangana. This partnership aims to create an ecosystem that integrates design thinking into industrial and entrepreneurial practices. By enabling access to design expertise, infrastructure, and mentorship, the initiative seeks to promote innovation in various aspects, including:
- Product development
- Process improvement
- Business model innovation
Impact on MSMEs and Startups
The establishment of the CoDE Studio is expected to have a profound impact on the MSME sector and startups in the region. By providing tailored support and resources, the studio aims to empower these entities to leverage design as a tool for growth and differentiation in the marketplace.
Moreover, the focus on skill development and mentorship will equip aspiring entrepreneurs with the necessary tools and knowledge to navigate the challenges of starting and scaling a business. This initiative aligns with the broader objectives of the RAMP program, which seeks to enhance the performance and sustainability of MSMEs across India.
Future Prospects
Looking ahead, the CoDE Studio is poised to become a vital resource for fostering creativity and innovation within the MSME and startup ecosystem. By continually adapting to the needs of its participants and embracing emerging design trends, the studio can help drive economic growth and job creation in the region.
In addition, the CoDE Studio will likely serve as a model for similar initiatives across India, showcasing the importance of design-led innovation in enhancing competitiveness and fostering a culture of entrepreneurship.
Conclusion
The inauguration of the CoDE Studio at IIT Hyderabad marks a significant step towards promoting design-led innovation among MSMEs and startups. With its comprehensive range of services and collaborative approach, the studio is set to play a crucial role in shaping the future of entrepreneurship in the region.
Note: The information provided in this article is based on the latest available data as of January 2026.
