Incubation Team
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Dr. Hrishikesh A. Tavanandi
Chief Executive Officer (CEO)
Dr. Hrishikesh A. Tavanandi is a distinguished researcher and innovation leader with over 15 years of experience in Food Process Engineering and Biotechnology. Specializing in membrane technology, drying of microorganisms, and equipment design for Indian traditional foods, he brings a rare blend of academic depth and practical insight.
He has been recognized with top national honors including the INSA Medal for Young Scientists (2021) and the Best Research Fellow Award from CSIR-CFTRI (2017-18). Dr. Hrishikesh has actively contributed to grassroots entrepreneurship by coordinating over 40 capacity-building programs, impacting more than 1,500 farmers and food entrepreneurs.
As CEO of GSSSTBIF, he drives the vision of inclusive innovation and startup support, with a strong focus on food technology, bio-entrepreneurship, and societal transformation through science-based enterprises.
Mr. Yeshaswi Nag N.
Chief Executive Officer
DST–iTBI GSSS Technology Business Incubator Foundation (GSSSTBIF)
Mr. Yeshaswi Nag N. brings over 18 years of leadership experience in entrepreneurship development, incubation management, CSR initiatives, and MSME promotion. He has extensive expertise in project conceptualization, fund mobilization, startup mentoring, and large-scale livelihood and enterprise development programs across multiple states.
Prior to joining GSSSTBIF, he held key leadership roles at the Entrepreneurship Development Institute of India (EDII) and Hand in Hand Academy for Social Entrepreneurship, where he mobilized significant CSR funding, led incubation initiatives, and supported the creation of thousands of micro and small enterprises. His work spans food processing, agri-enterprises, healthcare, and inclusive entrepreneurship ecosystems.
As CEO, he leads the strategic expansion of the DST–iTBI ecosystem in the Mysuru region, strengthening structured incubation programs, ignition grant support, industry partnerships, and innovation-driven enterprise growth aligned with DST objectives.
Contact– +91 99015 26736
Mail – ceo.gssstbif@gsss.edu.in
Linkedin – https://www.linkedin.com/in/yeshaswi-nag-52476869/
Mr. Ashokananda S
Incubation Manager
DST–iTBI GSSS Technology Business Incubator Foundation (GSSSTBIF)
Mr. Ashokananda S serves as the Incubation Manager at DST–iTBI GSSSTBIF, bringing multidisciplinary experience in incubation management, innovation ecosystems, and entrepreneurship development.
He holds a Master’s degree in Social Innovation & Entrepreneurship from the Tata Institute of Social Sciences (TISS), Mumbai, with a foundation in Mechanical Engineering (VTU), Mangalore.
He has previously contributed to government-backed initiatives including the PRIME programme in Meghalaya and institutional incubation programs under the Nagpur NEXT Initiative.
His expertise spans startup evaluation, cohort management, stakeholder engagement, and grant-linked incubation across food processing, agro-based enterprises, and health sectors. At GSSSTBIF, he leads incubation operations and ecosystem strengthening efforts in alignment with DST–NIDHI iTBI objectives.
Contact– +91 70223 18469
Mail– manager.gssstbif@gsss.edu.in
Linkedin– https://www.linkedin.com/in/ashokanandas/
Sanjay Pande S. R.
Incubation Associate
Sanjay Pande S. R. brings a unique blend of financial acumen and operational efficiency to the GSSSTBIF team. With a background in commerce and management, and prior experience in finance and administration, he ensures smooth coordination of incubation activities and supports program delivery.
His expertise includes documentation, vendor coordination, purchase management, and compliance with institutional and government guidelines. Known for his discipline and team spirit, Sanjay plays a vital role in daily incubator functions, making sure that systems are responsive and entrepreneur-friendly.
His commitment to excellence and his ability to multitask make him an invaluable support pillar for the incubation team.
Mr. Jyothir Ganesh.
Technical Support Associate
Mr. Jyothir Ganesh has been an active contributor to the startup ecosystem for over 25 years, with extensive experience in electronics, technical training, and incubation support. His work spans product development, industry-oriented skilling, and hands-on support for early-stage startups.
At GSSSTBIF, he leads the Electronics Work Lab, where he provides practical training to students, equipping them for industry readiness and entrepreneurial pursuits. He also supports incubatees in operating technical equipment, executing projects, and preparing documentation-playing a vital role in day-to-day technical facilitation and fostering innovation within the incubator.
Kusuma B.
Accountant
Kusuma B. is a finance professional with nearly a decade of experience in institutional accounting and administration. Prior to joining GSSSTBIF, she served in key finance roles in multi-specialty hospitals, where she handled government and insurance billing, reimbursements, and internal audits.
At GSSSTBIF, she manages all accounting operations, ensuring transparency, compliance, and timely reporting. Her mastery over accounting systems, attention to detail, and dependable nature help maintain robust financial governance for the incubator.
She contributes significantly to enabling a seamless backend for startup funding, grants utilization, and statutory obligations.
Mr. Arun Kumar B.D
Office Assistant
Mr. Arun Kumar brings over 17 years of experience in administrative operations and machinery handling. Prior to joining GSSSTBIF, he worked at M/s. Hindustan Springs Pvt. Ltd., Mysuru, where he supported day-to-day office activities and operated heavy industrial equipment.
At GSSSTBIF, he assists with routine administrative functions and plays a key role in the Food Processing Facility, where he supports the maintenance and operation of food processing equipment. His background as an entrepreneur in rice flakes production adds practical insights to his role, enabling effective on-ground support for incubation activities.
Dr. Hrishikesh A. Tavanandi
Chief Executive Officer (CEO)
G. Vivek Bharadwaj
Incubation Manager
Sanjay Pandey S. R.
Director, GSSSTBIF
