AMTZ empowers Divyangjans with entrepreneurship & employment

New Delhi: Andhra Pradesh MedTech Zone (AMTZ) is transforming lives by empowering Divyangjans from rural areas with sustainable livelihoods.

Through its newly launched Empowerment Centre for Persons with Disabilities, AMTZ, in collaboration with IDEA, is providing a holistic program that goes beyond assistive technology—offering entrepreneurship training, seed funding, market linkages, and long-term mentorship to enable Divyangjans to become business owners and skilled professionals.

The initiative began at the Assistive Technology Centre of AMTZ with a five-day Entrepreneurship Development Training Program for the first batch of 30 Divyangjans from 14 villages around the MedTech Zone. Led by expert trainers, this program equips participants with the skills to establish their own businesses, backed by seed funding, market linkages and two years of handholding support.

AMTZ is also creating direct employment opportunities within its ecosystem while supporting Divyangjan entrepreneurs by procuring their products, ensuring sustained economic growth.This integrated model of entrepreneurship and employment aims to bridge the gap between skill development and financial independence, empowering Divyangjans to be self-reliant contributors to the economy.

Dr. Jitendra Sharma, MD & CEO of AMTZ, emphasized the organization’s vision: “At AMTZ, we support Divyangjans not just with artificial limbs and assistive devices but also by enabling sustainable livelihoods, unlocking their true potential.”

Inclusive Divyangjan Entrepreneurship Association (IDEA), a not-for-profit organization working across 11 states, is committed to training and mentoring Divyangjans. “IDEA resonates with AMTZ’s mission of empowerment. Through skill development and entrepreneurship, we aim to uplift Divyangjans and make them active contributors to society and the economy,” said Mallikarjuna Iytha, Founder & CEO, IDEA.

This initiative is just the beginning. Going forward, AMTZ and IDEA plan to expand this program across Visakhapatnam and Andhra Pradesh, reaching more Divyangjans and providing them with the tools and opportunities to achieve financial self-sufficiency. Divyangjans looking to join the program or organizations wishing to support this cause can connect with Assistive Technology Centre at AMTZ to be part of this transformative journey.