The Bombay Chamber of Commerce & Industry, in partnership with the Brihanmumbai Municipal Corporation (BMC), organised the inaugural Namaste Mumbai Conclave 2026 and The Grand CivicTech Fund Quest on July 2, bringing together policymakers, industry leaders, entrepreneurs, investors, academicians and creative professionals to discuss Mumbai’s future as a global centre for culture and innovation.
Opening the conclave, Sudhanshu Vats, President of the Bombay Chamber of Commerce & Industry and Managing Director of Pidilite Industries, said Mumbai’s next phase of development should extend beyond infrastructure and focus on culture, tourism and quality of life.
“Bombay Chamber’s story is closely interlinked with the story of Mumbai. As the city undergoes an unprecedented infrastructure transformation, we must now equally invest in its cultural identity, tourism and quality of life. Through Namaste Mumbai, we hope to bring together ideas, innovation and partnerships that will help build a more liveable, globally competitive and culturally vibrant Mumbai,” he said.
Delivering the keynote address, Municipal Commissioner Ashwini Bhide said infrastructure alone cannot define a city’s future.
“Cities are built not only through concrete but through culture. Ease of doing business, ease of living and ease of movement are important, but a truly liveable city also requires ease of expression. People need spaces where they can express themselves, experience the creativity of others and participate in the city’s cultural life,” she said.
She further noted, “Creation comes out of chaos. Mumbai has always turned its challenges into innovation and creativity. The new infrastructure we are building must now become a foundation for nurturing the next generation of artists, entrepreneurs and innovators.”
The conclave featured panel discussions on Mumbai’s identity and its potential as a creative capital. Discussions highlighted the need to integrate infrastructure, culture, education and tourism to strengthen the city’s global positioning.
The event also hosted The Grand CivicTech Fund Quest, where 10 startups showcased technology-driven urban solutions. Niramai Health Analytix Pvt. Ltd. was named the CivicTech Champion, while EcoBio Consulting Pvt. Ltd. and Saltech Design Labs Pvt. Ltd. secured the first and second runner-up positions. Along with cash awards, the winners will receive mentorship from industry experts to help scale their solutions.
