DPIIT has launched the Startup Maha Rathi challenge with ₹30 crore for startups. This initiative provides mentoring, funding, and networking opportunities across various sectors. A structured competition begins February 2025, culminating in a live pitch finale, with winners receiving significant financial awards. The initiative is part of the broader Startup Mahakumbh event, bringing together the startup ecosystem in India.
The Indian government’s initiative, spearheaded by the Department for Promotion of Industry and Internal Trade (DPIIT), aims to empower startups across the nation. This effort, known as the Startup Maha Rathi challenge, offers a substantial ₹30 crore funding alongside mentorship from industry experts and strategic networking with global investors. As part of its mission, it also recognizes innovative startups with special awards.
The Startup Maha Rathi challenge spans various sectors, including AI, biotechnology, gaming, fintech, agriculture technology, and climate tech, among others. Union Commerce and Industry Minister Piyush Goyal will oversee the program’s awards, supported by partnerships with notable organizations such as Avaana Capital and HDFC.
Scheduled to kick off with applications on February 26, 2025, the competition features a thorough selection process culminating in a live pitching finale from April 3-5, 2025, at Bharat Mandapam, New Delhi. Each selected startup will secure ₹1 Lakh, while sector leaders can earn ₹10 lakh, and five additional startups per sector will receive ₹5 lakh each.
In addition to cash awards, the next five startups will have access to ₹3 lakhs each, alongside expert guidance and investor connectivity provided by a jury of over 100 prominent VCs and angel investors.
The Startup Mahakumbh event collects the entire startup ecosystem—startups, investors, incubators, and industry leaders—culminating in an anticipated second edition in 2025. The previous edition was a resounding success, attracting more than 48,581 business visitors, showcasing 1,306 exhibitors, and engaging a vast network of incubators and investors.
The Startup Maha Rathi challenge signifies a significant investment in India’s entrepreneurial landscape, presenting immense funding, mentorship, and competitive opportunities for startups. With a structured process and multi-phase competition, along with notable backing from industry leaders, it sets the stage for fostering innovation across diverse sectors. As the second Startup Mahakumbh approaches, the initiative promises to strengthen the unity of the startup community in India.
Original Source: www.hindustantimes.com
