New Delhi, Jul 4 (KNN) The FICCI–Mercedes-Benz Bharat Innovation and Business Ideas Challenge Programme, launched on Friday, aims to identify and support high-potential Indian startups building scalable solutions in manufacturing, sustainability, education, decarbonisation, and the automotive and electric vehicle sectors.
Department for Promotion of Industry and Internal Trade (DPIIT) Additional Secretary Ateesh Kumar Singh said timely mentorship and support help innovators align solutions with national priorities and are key to driving innovation-led growth and strengthening India’s global innovation standing.
Structured Mentorship and Funding Support
As part of the programme, a structured post-funding mentoring and handholding framework has been introduced for seven selected startups to accelerate growth and enhance investment readiness.
Each startup will receive funding support of Rs 30 lakh, along with targeted assistance across business, regulatory, financial, legal, investment, and technology domains.
The mentorship framework will cover key areas such as regulatory compliance, taxation, fund utilisation, fundraising strategy, valuation, term sheet negotiations, data privacy, cybersecurity, and intellectual property protection.
Selection Process
Following a nationwide call for applications, startups from across India participated in the challenge. After a multi-stage evaluation process involving industry experts and ecosystem stakeholders, 32 startups were shortlisted to present before the jury. Based on criteria including innovation, scalability, business potential, and impact, seven startups were selected for funding and mentorship support.
Demo Days and Strategic Mentorship
The programme will also feature dedicated Demo Days, enabling startups to present their innovations, business models, and growth strategies to industry leaders, investors, and ecosystem stakeholders.
These engagements are expected to support market validation, strengthen positioning, and unlock partnerships and funding opportunities.
Additionally, selected startups will participate in the Sounding Board Programme, a strategic mentorship initiative offering industry insights, expert guidance, and leadership perspectives to refine business models and accelerate market readiness.
(KNN Bureau)
