Building Stronger Pathways for Student Startups: UOC and TRACE Join Forces
The Innovation & Startup Incubator (ISI) and TRACE have formalised their collaboration through the signing of a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) on 2nd September 2026 at College House. This strategic collaboration marks another important milestone in our journey to build a vibrant startup culture at the University, creating stronger pathways for our students to transform innovative ideas into impactful ventures.
Through this partnership, our student innovators will benefit from expert mentorship and guidance, entrepreneurship training, industry and ecosystem connections, startup development opportunities, and access to a wider network to support the growth of their ventures. Together, ISI and TRACE will work towards connecting student founders with the knowledge, networks, and opportunities they need to move from ideas to innovation and innovation to impact.
Representing the University, the Vice Chancellor Professor Indika Mahesh Karunathilake, and the Director of the Innovation & Startup Incubator Dr Asanka P Sayakkara, Legal Officer Ms Nirmala Adhikari, and Ms Nirasha Kulasooriya from the ISI team participated in the occasion.
Representing TRACE, the President, Mr Kusal Subasinghe, the Executive Director, Mr Heminda Jayaweera, and Associate Manager Ms Thihara Mallikarachchi participated in the event. ISI look forward to a meaningful partnership that will empower our student entrepreneurs, strengthen industry connections, and create new opportunities for innovation and startup growth.
