On 24 June 2026 six youth‑led startups were declared winners and runners‑up of the 8th Youth Co:Lab National Innovation Challenge 2026.
Organisers & Partnership
- Lead agencies: United Nations Development Programme (UNDP) India and Citi Foundation.
- Government partners: Atal Innovation Mission (AIM), NITI Aayog.
- Implementation partner: T-Hub Foundation (Hyderabad-based innovation incubator).
Scale & Selection Process
- Applications: Over 350 submissions from startups across 28 states.
- National Springboard Programme: 50 shortlisted startups underwent a three‑month virtual capacity‑building programme with 16 industry mentors.
- Regional Immersion: Top 20 attended a bootcamp at T-Hub, Hyderabad (15–19 June 2026).
- Final evaluation: Jury assessment held on 18 June 2026.
Winners & Awards
- Winners (seed grants ₹3.5 lakh each): NavaPrayoga Labs LLP (Grassip), UnBubble, Ecorenowa Solutions Pvt. Ltd.
- Runners‑up (₹2.2 lakh each): Eco Cushion, Vasudeva Innovations, WomenasticCO.
Thematic Focus
- Priority areas: Circular economy innovations, sustainable textiles and fashion, sustainable food systems, and water conservation.
International Linkage
- Youth Co:Lab Summit 2026: Scheduled in Bangkok on 29–30 June 2026 to convene young entrepreneurs, investors and policymakers.
IASPOINT Booster Facts
- Atal Innovation Mission: A NITI Aayog initiative to promote a culture of innovation and entrepreneurship in India.
- T-Hub: One of India’s largest startup incubators, providing mentoring, incubation and market linkages.