The second edition of Startup Mahakumbh 2025, organized by the Department for Promotion of Industry and Internal Trade (DPIIT), is set to foster groundbreaking innovations across key industries such as cybersecurity, artificial intelligence, robotics, and biotechnology. With a staggering prize pool of Rs 70 crore, this event aims to accelerate the startup ecosystem by recognizing and rewarding entrepreneurial talent.
Union Minister of Commerce and Industry, Piyush Goyal, announced that the Startup MahaRathi Challenge will be the largest privately funded startup competition in India. The Rs 70 crore prize money is designed to propel promising startups toward success by offering substantial financial backing. Registration for the competition was open from February 26 to March 12, 2025. To qualify, startups had to be recognized by DPIIT, be in the early to growth stages, and be actively operational across India.
Shortlisted startups will undergo sector-specific mentorship programs before competing in the final stage. The top 150 startups will have the opportunity to pitch their ideas to a Grand Jury at Startup Mahakumbh 2025 in New Delhi. The event will culminate in a live pitching finale, where winners will receive funding, mentorship, and national visibility.
The competition covers several emerging sectors, including:
- Artificial Intelligence & Deep Tech
- Cybersecurity
- Climate Tech
- Agri-Tech
- Gaming & Sports
- Fintech
Apart from monetary prizes, participants will gain access to non-fiscal benefits such as networking opportunities and mentorship from industry leaders, investors, and policymakers.
Fiscal Incentives:
- Grants and corporate credits
- Cash prizes for top-performing startups
Non-Fiscal Incentives:
- Mentorship from leading industry experts
- Exposure to key stakeholders, investors, and policymakers
- Strategic networking opportunities with top-tier corporates and foundations
Startup Mahakumbh 2025 aims to create a thriving innovation ecosystem, providing entrepreneurs with the resources, guidance, and funding needed to scale their ideas into successful ventures. The competition is a crucial step in strengthening India’s position as a global startup hub.
