ABB India Launches AI-Powered Startup Challenge to Revolutionize Smart Drives!

ABB India, in collaboration with Microsoft and SynerLeap, has launched the ABB Startup Challenge India 2025, inviting India’s most innovative deep tech startups to develop AI-powered solutions that enhance smart drive technology. The challenge aims to tackle common issues faced by OEMs and system users when interacting with Variable Speed Drives (VSDs), such as delays, manual inputs, and excessive reliance on technical support.

The winner of the challenge will be awarded a $30,000 project prize, mentorship from ABB’s experts, and an opportunity to gain global exposure through ABB’s innovation platforms. The deadline for applications is April 29, 2025.

VSDs are crucial for improving energy efficiency in various industrial applications, but users often struggle with selecting the appropriate drives, commissioning systems, and troubleshooting problems. This initiative seeks to address these challenges by utilizing artificial intelligence to simulate real-world drive performance, automate the commissioning process, and autonomously troubleshoot issues, all without the need for manual parameter adjustments.

Under the theme Advancing Smart Drive Technology with AI Innovation, the goal is to create a smarter, self-learning ecosystem that boosts reliability, reduces downtime, and enhances the customer experience. This challenge reflects ABB’s ongoing commitment to fostering open innovation and creating scalable, locally-driven solutions for global sustainability.

As ABB India celebrates its 75th anniversary, the company is reinforcing its legacy of technological excellence and innovation. The ABB Startup Challenge India 2025 follows successful implementations in Europe and the United States, marking an important step towards shaping the future of smart drive technology in India.