Unlock Your Entrepreneurial Potential: Join the ₹30 Crore Startup Maha Rathi Challenge by Mahakumbh!

The Department for Promotion of Industry and Internal Trade (DPIIT) has teamed up with Avaana Capital, LetsVenture, Karnataka Digital Economy Mission (KDEM), IVCA, HDFC, and others to kick off the Startup Maha Rathi challenge. This is part of the second edition of Startup Mahakumbh.

This exciting initiative is all about boosting Indian startups through funding, mentorship, and strategic support. It’s aligned with India’s vision for a developed nation by 2047, known as Viksit Bharat.

Through this challenge, a total of ₹30 crore is available for startups. They’ll receive expert mentorship from industry leaders and connect with international investors. Notably, there are special awards for startups from emerging states and union territories.

“The Startup Maha Rathi initiative is a crucial step toward fulfilling India’s goal of ‘Viksit Bharat 2047.’ By providing financial support and mentorship, it aims to help some of the country’s most promising startups grow, innovate, and propel India as a leader in entrepreneurship,” said Piyush Goyal, Union Minister for Commerce and Industry.

This program focuses on 11 key sectors such as AI and deep tech, biotech and health tech, fintech, agritech, mobility, climatetech, and even defence and space tech. It promises exposure to global markets and national recognition by DPIIT.

The competition has a structured format. Applications open on February 26, 2025, leading to live pitches from April 3-5, 2025, in New Delhi. Startups that make it to the grand jury round will be awarded ₹1 lakh each. The top two startups from each sector will win ₹10 lakh, with the next five receiving ₹5 lakh each, and another five getting ₹3 lakh each.

In addition to monetary rewards, startups will benefit from guidance and connections through a jury of over 100 venture capitalists, angel investors, and industry experts.

“India’s startup ecosystem is at a pivotal moment, and initiatives like this are vital for nurturing high-potential ventures. This program will help create a strong culture of innovation and impact the next wave of groundbreaking entrepreneurs,” added Amardeep Singh Bhatia, Secretary, DPIIT.

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