MINI India has introduced URBAN-X, marking the first time that Indian urban tech startups are being supported under the global MINI Impact Program. This program aims to assist early-stage startups in creating more sustainable, livable, and resilient cities. It is now being extended to India, along with seven other countries including Brazil, Mexico, South Africa, Portugal, France, Spain, and Germany.

Mr. Vikram Pawah, President BMW Group India stated that MINI has always been an urban brand since its inception during the gasoline crisis of the late 1950s. The brand's small size, innovative design and engineering have made it iconic. URBAN-X by MINI follows this creative spirit by supporting startups that reimagine city life and provides them with a network and necessary resources to scale up their solutions. After successful launches in various markets worldwide, URBAN-X is now entering the Indian market and inviting local startups to present their creative solutions for urban challenges.

MINI India will collaborate with Utopia the world's first urban innovation group for urbantech entrepreneurs in emerging cities - to identify promising startups in India tackling urban challenges. A panel of experts including industry mentors experienced in regulated industries as well as urban design and planning will evaluate startup applications.

One winning team from India will participate in a 4-week program offered by URBAN-X which focuses on achieving 'product-market fit' through an intensive virtual experience supplemented by a week at the URBAN-X headquarters in Newlab, Brooklyn. Participating entrepreneurs from different countries will receive tailored support based on their startup stage and needs. For idea stage startups, emphasis will be placed on customer discovery, business roadmap development and pitching solutions. Seed stage companies will have their product and pitch reviewed while also receiving guidance on market entry strategies and supply chain assessment.

URBAN-X has already supported over 100 startups in the past seven years, providing scalable solutions. In response to the urgent need to combat climate change, the platform expanded last year with the MINI Impact Program, leveraging MINI's global distribution network to address climate challenges in cities worldwide. URBAN-X was established by MINI in 2016 as a platform for founders who are reimagining city life. It partners with startups to develop innovative technology solutions for a sustainable planet. Unlike traditional startup programs, URBAN-X offers tailored support that accelerates growth and builds successful businesses for the next generation of innovators focused on climate and urban issues.