Dr. Praveen Desai
Dr. Praveen Desai is a seasoned innovation catalyst and incubation leader with 20+ years of extensive experience in the startup ecosystem, built on a strong engineering pedigree from REC[NITK]. Proven track record in designing and scaling incubation programmes, screening and nurturing high-potential startups, and building partnerships across government, industry, academia and investors at national and international levels. Skilled in translating technology ideas into viable businesses, managing portfolios and equity/fund instruments, and leading purpose-driven teams to deliver measurable outcomes in innovation, job creation and fundraising.Praveen has served in various capacities, including Manager, Head, and Director – Innovation and Entrepreneurship at the Science and Technology Park, Pune, supported by the Department of Science and Technology (DST). He is currently serving as Head – Technology Business Incubator (TBI) at iCreate.