The Indira Gandhi National Open University (IGNOU) has launched the IGNOU Startup Competition 2026, inviting its students and alumni to showcase their innovative startups and business ventures. The initiative is being organised by the Institution’s Innovation Council (IIC), IGNOU, as part of its annual activities to encourage entrepreneurship and innovation among the university community. The competition aims to identify and support aspiring entrepreneurs from across the country. With this initiative, the university hopes to bring promising startup ideas into the forefront and provide students a platform for recognition.
Eligibility Criteria
The IGNOU Startup Competition 2026 is open to all current students and alumni of IGNOU who have already launched a startup or are running their business ventures.
Applicants must submit details about their startup through the prescribed online application form to participate in the competition. Candidates who are eligible will be assessed based on the originality, impact, and potential of their venture. The selected winner will receive the Best Startup Award 2026 after the final round of the competition.
Selection Method
The selection process for the IGNOU Startup Competition 2026 will be conducted in two stages. In the first round, applications received through the online submission form will be screened by an expert committee. Based on the evaluation, shortlisted participants will progress to the next stage.
In the second round, shortlisted students and alumni will showcase their startup or business ideas before the jury through a pitching session. IGNOU will share the presentation template with the shortlisted candidates after the screening process. The final winner will be selected based on the quality of the startup, innovation, and overall presentation.
Students and alumni who are keen can submit their applications online through the official Google Form. The last date to apply for the IGNOU Startup Competition 2026 is August 31, 2026.
The university has said that the competition reflects its commitment to promoting an Atmanirbhar mindset by promoting innovation, entrepreneurship, and self-employment opportunities among its learners. Through this initiative, IGNOU seeks to recognise talented entrepreneurs from its academic community and support their entrepreneurial efforts.
