Entrepreneurship Cell, IIT Kanpur, has unveiled UpStart 2025, its flagship national pitching competition aimed at supporting, accelerating, and empowering Indian startups. The contest will be organised in two phases.
The Nationals will be held across four cities: Delhi (11 October), Hyderabad (01 November), Bangalore (08 November), and Mumbai (06 December), while the Finals are scheduled at IIT Kanpur on 25 January 2026. With prizes worth up to Rs 18 lakh, the competition promises participants access to incubation, acceleration, on-the-spot funding, mentorship, networking, and media exposure. UpStart 2025 will spotlight high-growth sectors including fintech, health tech, deep tech, Web3, and cybersecurity.
Expanded Opportunities
Startups shortlisted from the city rounds will undergo a four-week mentorship programme led by industry veterans before pitching in the finals. “India is at the cusp of a startup revolution. IIT Kanpur is committed to empowering entrepreneurs with resources, guidance, and visibility at crucial early stages of their journey. Through UpStart, we want to ensure that conviction and determination translate into measurable outcomes,” the E-cell team said.
The grand finale will feature the final pitching rounds, a Startup Expo, an Investors & Incubators Conclave, and a Networking Dinner, providing entrepreneurs with multiple platforms to connect with investors, mentors, and potential collaborators.
UpStart 2024 saw over Rs 2 crore in on-the-spot funding, participation from leading venture capital firms, and significant media attention. Building on that momentum, the 2025 edition has scaled up with wider participation and greater funding opportunities. Registrations are open until 3 October, 2025. |
