DPIIT Opens Applications for National Startup Awards 2025
- DPIIT begins the 5th edition to recognize startups with commercial success, social impact, and scalability across sectors like clean energy, health, fintech, and more.
- Launched with partners like Avaana Capital and HDFC, offering Rs 30 crore, mentorship, and global investor access under Startup Mahakumbh.
- DPIIT teams up with YourStory to empower 1 million grassroots entrepreneurs using AI tools and regional storytelling, focusing on Tier II, III cities and rural areas.
The Department for Promotion of Industry and Internal Trade (DPIIT) has officially opened applications for the fifth edition of the National Startup Awards. The annual recognition aims to honour startups not just for their commercial success but also for their social impact, scalability, and sustainability.
Applicants will be put through a rigorous multi-stage selection process, including eligibility screening, sector-wise shortlisting, and in-depth evaluations by expert panels comprising investors, industry leaders, academicians, and senior government officials. The awards span diverse sectors such as agriculture, clean energy, fintech, aerospace, education, health, cybersecurity, and accessibility.
In a move to further energise India’s startup ecosystem, DPIIT, in collaboration with Avaana Capital, LetsVenture, Karnataka Digital Economy Mission, IVCA, HDFC, and others, launched the Startup Maha Rathi challenge in March as part of the second edition of Startup Mahakumbh. The initiative offers Rs 30 crore in funding, expert mentorship, and access to global investor networks helping early-stage ventures scale rapidly.
The awards and initiatives are aligned with the broader Viksit Bharat 2047 vision, focusing on inclusive and regionally balanced development. Special recognition is planned for startups emerging from underrepresented states and union territories, driving inclusive entrepreneurship.
To further amplify innovation from Tier II, Tier III cities and rural areas, DPIIT has signed an MoU with YourStory Media Private Limited, a digital platform dedicated to startups and innovation. Under the Bharat Project, this strategic collaboration aims to empower one million entrepreneurs by offering AI-based tools, venture-building platforms, and regional language storytelling that highlights local talent and innovation.
With these initiatives, DPIIT continues its mission to make India a global leader in innovation-driven entrepreneurship.
