DPIIT To Provide Tailored Support for National Award-Winning Startups

The Department of Industrial Production and Internal Trade (DPIIT) will provide tailored and dedicated support to the winners of the National Startup Awards 2022. The handholding support program aims to guide and empower these exceptional startups to achieve even greater success.

DPIIT Secretary, Rajesh Kumar Singh, officially launched the handholding support program on May 2, 2023. The program was introduced following the announcement of the National Startup Awards 2022 results by Piyush Goyal, Union Minister of Commerce and Industry on January 16, 2023, as part of the celebration of National Startup Day.

How Will DPIIT Support The Startups?

The handholding exercise will encompass a range of virtual and physical sessions, delegations, showcases, and specialized support. DPIIT has crafted distinct tracks to provide tailored and dedicated support to the startups, ensuring a holistic learning and growth experience. These tracks include Investor Pitching, Government Connects, Corporate & Unicorn Engagements, Brand Showcase, and International Market Access.

The goal of the handholding support program is to offer the startups the best showcase, learning, and networking opportunities. Additionally, the program aims to build trust in their brand, create a buzz around their products, and provide avenues to reach potential customers. DPIIT has partnered with svarious organizations to execute this initiative successfully. Partners present at the launch event included Government e-Marketplace, SIDBI, IVCA, IAN, HSBC, Mobikwik, Good Glam Group, PHDCCI, and Viacom 18.

Indian Startup Ecosystem: Previous Successes and Achievements

The handholding support program builds upon the successes of the National Startup Awards from previous years. Under the National Startup Awards 2020, over 400 connections were facilitated with ministries, investors, corporates, and mentors. Furthermore, 12 episodes featuring winners were aired on Doordarshan Startup Champions, and 192 finalists received valuable one-on-one mentorship from industry experts.

Similarly, under the National Startup Awards 2021, more than 30 knowledge sessions and 10+ pitching sessions were conducted for the winners and finalists. The cohort received over 185 hours of mentorship, and more than 110 startups had the exclusive opportunity to be showcased at the Dubai Expo.

How Are The Startups Recognized For The National Startup Awards?

The National Startup Awards, conceived by Startup India, a flagship initiative of the Government of India under the DPIIT, aim to recognize and reward outstanding startups that have demonstrated excellence financially, socially, and economically. The first two editions of the awards recognized and rewarded over 80 winners and 300 finalists.

For the National Startup Awards 2022, a total of 41 startups across 17 sectors and 50 sub-sectors, as well as 2 incubators and 1 accelerator, were identified as winners. These exemplary startups have proven their mettle through various rounds of evaluation. Additionally, 82 finalist startups have also demonstrated their potential and capabilities throughout the rigorous evaluation process.

Through the handholding support program, the DPIIT wants to nurture and empower these exceptional startups, providing them with the necessary tools and guidance to overcome challenges and achieve remarkable growth. This initiative will undoubtedly contribute to the overall development and success of the Indian startup ecosystem, fostering innovation, job creation, and economic growth.