How GeM is Empowering Startups at Startup Mahakumbh 2025

The Government e Marketplace (GeM) is making headlines, drawing a large influx of startups, entrepreneurs, and visitors to the GeM Pavilion at the second edition of Startup Mahakumbh, which is in full swing at Bharat Mandapam. The three-day startup congregation has brought together entrepreneurs, policymakers, and investors, reinforcing the government’s commitment to fostering innovation in public procurement.

At the core of the event is the GeM Pavilion in Hall 5, a key attraction designed to facilitate startup onboarding onto India’s largest e-marketplace for government buyers. The initiative aims to empower emerging ventures by simplifying their entry into public procurement and providing a seamless digital marketplace experience.

GeM’s Market Access and AI-Powered Assistance

A major highlight of the event has been the direct engagement between startups and key government buyers. With public sector procurement presenting a multi-billion-dollar opportunity, startups are seizing the chance to showcase their innovations and explore market-fit opportunities.

Enhancing the experience is GeMAI, an AI-powered chatbot designed to assist visitors with real-time platform navigation. Functioning in eight languages, the chatbot is addressing queries, guiding startups through the onboarding process, and facilitating issue resolution through voice commands and chat support.

Support Beyond Registration

Taking a step further, GeM CEO Ajay Bhadoo announced an exclusive support package for newly registered startups. Entrepreneurs at the GeM Pavilion are availing free professional product photoshoots and catalogue uploading assistance, helping them establish a compelling online presence.

Additionally, an on-site registration hub is expediting onboarding for DPIIT-registered startups, ensuring they integrate seamlessly with the marketplace. The GeM team has been actively engaging with founders, offering real-time guidance to help them optimize their listings and navigate the platform efficiently.

Masterclasses and High-Level Interactions

Beyond networking and registration, the event has hosted industry-focused masterclasses led by senior GeM officials. These sessions have provided startups with insights into scaling operations, leveraging government contracts, and positioning themselves within the public procurement ecosystem.

Exclusive Insights from GeM Leadership

As Startup Mahakumbh 2025 enters its final day, Ajit B. Chavan, Director at GeM, exclusively spoke with TICE News, the official media partner of Startup Mahakumbh 2025. He highlighted how GeM is revolutionizing the startup ecosystem by streamlining government procurement, launching innovative digital initiatives, and providing tailored support to empower startups across India. He emphasized the strategic role of GeM in driving entrepreneurship and fostering a vibrant culture of innovation across the country.
Industry leaders, investors, and startup founders continue to explore new avenues of collaboration. With government-backed initiatives like GeM driving accessibility and ease of doing business, startups are gaining unprecedented access to lucrative procurement opportunities.

For emerging ventures looking to enter government contracting, the event has reaffirmed one key takeaway—the doors to India’s public procurement market are wide open for innovation.