In Phase 1 (Induction Phase), 1084 candidates from 250+ universities and organizations across India engaged in the challenge, consuming over 30 hours of GFI India resources focused on the science and business of the smart protein sector, and were tested on their newly acquired knowledge with a bi-weekly assessment. This was the world’s first Smart Protein Digital Lab, and candidates who qualified from Phase 1 have received certification for completing the curriculum. The Digital Lab had a completion rate of over 70%, which is far, far higher than one would expect for online courses – bearing testimony to the Lab’s quality and the urgent need for such a curriculum in India focused on the smart protein Industry.