DPIIT Opens Applications For Fifth National Startup Awards

New Delhi, Jul 15 (KNN) The Department for Promotion of Industry and Internal Trade (DPIIT) has announced the opening of applications for the fifth edition of the National Startup Awards, emphasising recognition beyond commercial success to include social impact, sustainability, and scalability metrics.

The evaluation process involves multiple stages, beginning with eligibility screening and sectoral shortlisting, followed by assessment conducted by expert panels.

These panels comprise industry leaders, investors, academicians, and government officials who review applications across diverse sectors including agriculture, clean energy, fintech, aerospace, health, education, cybersecurity, and accessibility.

In March, DPIIT launched the Startup Maha Rathi challenge in collaboration with Avaana Capital, LetsVenture, Karnataka Digital Economy Mission, IVCA, HDFC, and other partners.

This initiative formed part of the second edition of Startup Mahakumbh, a flagship programme designed to strengthen Indian startups through Rs 30 crore in funding, mentorship from industry veterans, and access to global investor networks.

The programme aligns with India's long-term development framework, Viksit Bharat 2047, and includes provisions for special recognition of startups from lesser-represented states and union territories.

This partnership supports DPIIT's objective of fostering entrepreneurial talent at the grassroots level, particularly in Tier II and Tier III cities and rural areas of India.

Under the Bharat Project framework, the collaboration aims to enable one million entrepreneurs through AI-based tools, venture-building platforms, and regional language storytelling initiatives designed to highlight local innovation.

(KNN Bureau)