Bharat Startup Grand Challenge – Funding Up to ₹15 Crore

India is at a pivotal stage where technological innovations in CleanTech, FinTech, and Sustainability must drive the nation toward economic and environmental progress. With growing concerns about climate change, financial inclusion, and the need for secure digital transactions, startups play a crucial role in shaping the future.

The Bharat Startup Grand Challenge, launched in collaboration with Startup India, is a national initiative designed to support early and growth-stage startups that are registered with the Department for Promotion of Industry and Internal Trade (DPIIT). This challenge provides a unique opportunity for innovators, entrepreneurs, and industry disruptors to secure funding, mentorship, and strategic partnerships to scale their ventures successfully.

About Stride Ventures

Stride Ventures is a leading venture debt firm in India that provides customized debt and structured financing solutions to high-potential startups. Over the years, Stride has funded some of India’s most promising startups across multiple sectors, including FinTech, Sustainability, E-Mobility, and Waste Management. The firm not only provides financial support but also offers mentorship, investor access, and strategic partnerships to help startups navigate their growth journey.

Shortlisted startups for the Bharat Startup Grand Challenge will receive an email notification regarding further steps. Selected applicants may need to provide detailed financial data, including historical records and projections, to qualify for funding.

Eligibility Criteria for Bharat Startup Grand Challenge

To participate in the Bharat Startup Grand Challenge, startups must meet the following criteria:

• Must be an early-stage or growth-stage startup (Seed to Series A).
• Must be registered with DPIIT under Startup India.

The challenge is open to two key categories of startups:

1. Early Traction Startups – Startups that have developed an initial product, gained user traction, and are in the process of refining their business model.
2. Scaling Stage Startups – Startups that have demonstrated significant market traction and are looking to scale operations, expand market reach, and optimize revenue models.

Themes for the Challenge

The Bharat Startup Grand Challenge encourages startups across various industry domains that align with the following key innovation themes:

• Sustainability – Solutions focused on renewable energy, carbon reduction, and waste management.
• Circular Economy – Startups promoting recycling, upcycling, and sustainable supply chain solutions.
• E-Mobility – Innovations in battery manufacturing, EV infrastructure, and electric vehicle technologies.
• FinTech – New-age financial solutions, including alternative credit models, fraud detection, and secure digital payments.

Relevant Industries Covered

The challenge welcomes startups from multiple industries, including:

• Technology & AI: Artificial Intelligence, IT Services, AR/VR, Computer Vision, IoT
• Sustainability & Energy: Green Technology, Renewable Energy, Waste Management
• FinTech & Security: Finance Technology, Cybersecurity, Digital Payments
• Automotive & E-Mobility: Electric Vehicles, Battery Technology, Passenger Experience
• Healthcare & Biotech: Lifesciences, Pharmaceuticals, Biotechnology
• Retail & Consumer Tech: E-commerce, Toys & Games, Social Networks
• Construction & Design: Architecture, Interior Design, Real Estate Tech
• Media & Entertainment: Animation, Content Platforms, Digital Advertising
• Education & HR: EdTech, Human Resource Tech, Skills Development
• Manufacturing & Robotics: Robotics, Textiles & Apparel, Industrial Automation

This broad sectoral coverage ensures that startups from diverse backgrounds can participate and benefit from the challenge.

Incentives for Winning Startups

Fiscal Incentives

• Debt/Equity Funding: Winners stand a chance to secure funding of up to ₹15 Crore, subject to meeting eligibility criteria and due diligence.
• Custom Financing Solutions: Structured debt options tailored for business expansion and operational scaling.

Non-Fiscal Incentives

Winning startups will gain access to:

• B2B Connections: Direct networking with Stride Ventures’ portfolio companies and industry leaders.
• Investment Access: Introductions to venture capital firms, private equity investors, and institutional backers.
• Mentorship & Strategic Guidance: Expert advice on market expansion, vendor financing, and go-to-market (GTM) strategies.
• Market Linkages: Assistance in building channel partnerships and expanding business networks.

These non-fiscal incentives ensure that startups receive long-term support beyond just financial investment, helping them establish a strong market presence.

Application & Selection Process

Important Dates

• Application Start Date: February 21, 2025
• Application Deadline: March 20, 2025

Selection Criteria

• Evaluation of Business Model: Feasibility, scalability, and innovation potential.
• Market Readiness: Stage of product development and commercial viability.
• Financial Health: Revenue projections and historical financial data.
• Impact Potential: Alignment with FinTech, Sustainability, and E-Mobility themes.

Shortlisted startups will be notified via email and may be required to provide additional documentation to proceed to the next round of evaluation.

Conclusion – A Gateway to Startup Growth in India

The Bharat Startup Grand Challenge 2025 serves as an accelerator for promising startups in India’s rapidly growing innovation ecosystem. With an opportunity to secure funding of up to ₹15 Crore, access mentorship, and connect with industry leaders, this challenge is designed to empower entrepreneurs and scale impactful solutions.

Startups that align with sustainability, e-mobility, and fintech solutions are encouraged to apply and take advantage of this transformational opportunity. The collaboration between Stride Ventures, Startup India, and ecosystem partners ensures that selected startups will receive not only financial support but also strategic business growth assistance.

For the latest updates and application details, visit the official Bharat Startup Grand Challenge website. Entrepreneurs should act swiftly and submit their applications before March 20, 2025, to be part of India’s next wave of startup innovation.