Top Startup News Today: Policy Push, Deep-Tech Momentum, and Ecosystem Moves Across India

Today’s startup headlines signal a strong policy-driven push for innovation, with the Centre formally expanding the Startup India framework to recognise deep-tech ventures, while states like Chhattisgarh and Meghalaya roll out fresh capital and ecosystem support. From semiconductors and defence tech to student-led innovation, global partnerships, and rising funding activity, the Indian startup landscape continues to deepen and diversify. Here’s a crisp roundup of the top startup and innovation developments you need to know today.

Top Startup News Today

Govt Expands Startup Definition to Include Deep Tech Firms

The government has updated the Startup India framework to formally include deep tech startups, recognising their longer development cycles and R&D- intensive nature. Deep tech firms will now enjoy an extended 20‑year recognition period, compared to 10 years for regular startups, and a higher turnover cap of ₹300 crore. The notification clearly defines deep tech entities as those built on scientific or engineering innovation, backed by significant R&D and novel IP. Core eligibility norms for all startups remain unchanged, with recognition continuing through the DPIIT portal. The new framework also outlines tax benefits, stricter fund‑use conditions, and clear exit criteria.

Chhattisgarh Cabinet Clears Startup Policy 2025–30, Announces ₹100 Cr Fund

The Chhattisgarh Government has approved the Innovation and Startup Promotion Policy 2025–30 to strengthen the state’s startup ecosystem. The policy introduces structured support including seed funding of up to ₹10 lakh for Proof‑of‑Concept startups and a ₹100 crore Startup Capital Fund to boost investments. A ₹50 crore Credit Risk Fund will provide credit guarantees for collateral‑free loans. Startups will also receive interest subsidies, grants for market expansion, and incentives for job creation. Additional benefits include procurement relaxations, stamp duty exemptions, rental subsidies, and support for patents and technology adoption. The policy aims to position Chhattisgarh as a competitive, innovation‑driven state.

Meghalaya Felicitates 150 Startups at PRIME Onboarding & Graduation Programme

Meghalaya strengthened its startup ecosystem as Chief Minister Conrad K. Sangma felicitated 150 startups during the PRIME Meghalaya Onboarding and Graduation Programme in Shillong. The event marked the induction of the Top 75 startups under the Chief Minister’s E‑Championship Challenge 6.0 and the graduation of 75 startups from Cohort 5. Sangma highlighted the state’s growing entrepreneurship culture and the government’s commitment to nurturing innovation through structured support systems. The programme also featured the launch of the PRIME Entrepreneur Catalogue and recognition of top performers, reflecting Meghalaya’s expanding efforts to empower youth, women, and emerging founders across the state.

ISM 2.0 to Prioritise Chip Design, Ecosystem Development, and Talent

India Semiconductor Mission (ISM) 2.0 will focus on boosting indigenous chip design, attracting global ecosystem partners, and developing a highly skilled semiconductor workforce. Hon’ble Union Minister Shri Ashwini Vaishnaw announced that design startups will be central to the mission, with the government targeting advanced chip manufacturing up to the 2 nano meter node. With ₹1,000 crore allocated for FY 2026–27, ISM 2.0 emphasises industry‑led research, training centres, and deep tech innovation. The initiative has already enabled 67,000 semiconductor‑trained engineers and expanded EDA (Electronics Design Automation) tool access across 315 institutions, strengthening India’s position in the global semiconductor value chain.

Ecosystem Development and Institutional Support

Inside AIM SUMVAAD: How Incubators Are Powering India’s Startup & Innovation Economy

AIM SUMVAAD, organised by the Atal Innovation Mission under NITI Aayog, showcased how incubators are becoming core to India’s innovation-driven growth. The conclave brought together startups, policymakers, industry leaders, mentors, and over 100 AIM-supported incubators, highlighting their role in transforming early- stage ideas into scalable impact. It featured key announcements including the National Incubator Assessment Framework, the Youth CoLab National Innovation Challenge 2026 launch, and national recognitions for high- performing incubators. Leaders emphasised deep-tech incubation, startup‑led productivity for Viksit Bharat 2047, and AIM’s multi‑layered innovation model spanning schools to global networks. The event reinforced that strong, quality‑driven incubators are central to India’s long-term innovation momentum.

SKUAST‑K & IIT Jammu Boost Startup Growth Through Capacity Building Initiatives

SKUAST‑Kashmir, in partnership with IIT Jammu’s Innovation Council, has launched a week‑long Capacity Building Program to enhance incubation skills across Jammu & Kashmir. The initiative focuses on innovation, advanced incubation strategies, and agri‑tech integration to strengthen the region’s entrepreneurial ecosystem. Meanwhile, KVK Bandipora‑1 conducted an Entrepreneurship Awareness Programme on dairy‑based livelihoods, empowering rural youth and women with scientific dairy practices, business planning, and market linkages. Together, these programmes aim to nurture grassroots entrepreneurship, promote sustainable livelihoods, and accelerate the development of a resilient startup ecosystem in the Union Territory.

Mukesh Ambani Highlights Startup Ecosystem as India’s Biggest Growth Catalyst

Mukesh Ambani, Chairman and Managing Director of Reliance Industries, said India’s startup ecosystem has the potential to create “100 new Reliances,” driven by sustained economic reforms, policy continuity, and rising global confidence in the nation’s long‑term prospects. Speaking at a JioBlackRock fireside chat with BlackRock CEO Larry Fink, he emphasised that India’s growth is now broad‑based, stable, and future‑ready. he noted that global investors increasingly recognise India’s strategic importance, citing recent diplomatic and trade developments. He believes startups will be central to building large, globally relevant enterprises that define India’s next phase of economic expansion.

ImagiNxt 2026 Partners with MeitY Startup Hub to Boost India’s Digital Innovation Ecosystem

ImagiNxt 2026 has announced a strategic partnership with MeitY Startup Hub (MSH) to accelerate India’s startup‑led digital innovation landscape. The collaboration aims to deepen founder participation, enhance policy dialogue, and expand market access by bringing together startups, industry leaders, policymakers, and global innovators. Scheduled for 22–23 May 2026 at the Jio World Centre, Mumbai, ImagiNxt 2026 will serve as a major technology convening platform. Through MSH‑led sessions, curated showcases, and ecosystem engagements, the partnership seeks to strengthen deep‑tech innovation, digital public infrastructure, and inclusive, future‑ready entrepreneurship across the country.

‘Jharkhand to India’ Meet to Strengthen State’s Startup Ecosystem

The Navachar Research Incubation and Innovation Council (NRIIC) organised the “Jharkhand to India” dialogue on February 7 at the Constitution Club of India to position Jharkhand as a rising player in the national startup landscape. The event brought together entrepreneurs, investors, incubators, and policymakers to boost access to capital, mentorship, and institutional support. Discussions focussed on the proposed Eastern India Entrepreneurship Corridor, with Jharkhand as the pilot state. The initiative aims to reconnect successful Jharkhand-origin founders with the state’s emerging talent, fostering long-term collaboration and driving inclusive, innovation-led growth.

ITM Vocational University Students Showcase Innovative Startups at Vibrant Startup 2026

ITM Vocational University, Vadodara showcased six student-led startups at Vibrant Startup 2026, a summit organised by the Baroda Management Association in collaboration with Lions Clubs International. Students presented diverse innovations, including a transformable modular trolley for industrial logistics, soft robotics, an agro rover for pesticide spraying, eco‑friendly paints, pineapple‑leaf‑based sustainable paper, and a bio‑enzyme cleaner from kitchen waste. The event offered pitching sessions, mentorship, and industry interaction, helping students refine their ideas and gain real‑world exposure. University leaders noted the summit as a milestone in strengthening the institution’s entrepreneurial ecosystem and fostering innovation- driven learning.

NITI Aayog Calls for Greater VC Support to Accelerate Defence Startups

NITI Aayog Member and former DRDO Director General Shri VK Saraswat emphasised the need for increased venture capital support to strengthen India’s defence startup ecosystem. Speaking at the Advantage Vidarbha 2026 summit, he highlighted that defence startups have made significant progress but require stronger financial backing to scale indigenisation and advanced R&D. He noted that India’s defence budget priorities, private‑sector participation, and growing innovation frameworks are creating fertile ground for deep‑tech defence ventures. He stressed that future warfare technologies and indigenous weapon systems demand robust startup-driven innovation, urging investors to play a more active role in accelerating the sector’s growth.

Innovation and Product Spotlight

MLRIT Students Achieve Global Recognition at Dubai Startup Pitch Event

Students from the MLR Institute of Technology (MLRIT), Hyderabad, gained global recognition after pitching their startup Junicorn at a global startup event in Dubai. The team presented the product to investors and industry leaders, focusing on innovation, scalability, technical strength, and real-world impact. The pitch led to networking opportunities, discussions on collaboration, and an offer for a Chief Technology Officer role. Institute leadership and public representatives congratulated the students and highlighted the importance of exposure to global startup platforms.

Funding and Investment Trends

Funding and Acquisitions in Indian Startups: Feb 02–Feb 07: During the week of February 2 to February 7, Indian startups raised around $215 million across 26 funding deals, according to Entrackr. The funding included three growth-stage and eighteen early-stage deals, with some startups not disclosing amounts. Bengaluru led in the number of deals, while Delhi-NCR led in total funding value. Weekly funding activity increased significantly compared to the previous week.

From Around the World and Strategic Partnerships

Snoonu Partners with Alvarez & Marsal to Strengthen Qatar’s Startup Ecosystem: Snoonu signed a Memorandum of Understanding with global consulting firm Alvarez & Marsal to strengthen Qatar’s startup ecosystem. Under the agreement, Alvarez & Marsal will act as a knowledge partner to Snoonu’s incubator, providing support in commercial strategy, operations, finance, and investor readiness. The partnership aligns with Qatar National Vision 2030 and focuses on helping startups scale sustainably.

US - Japan VC Playbook Launched to Strengthen Cross‑Border Startup Collaboration

JETRO Startup has released the US - Japan VC Playbook, a strategic guide designed to boost cross‑border collaboration between U.S. investors, Japanese startups, and corporates. Developed under JETRO’s VC education program in partnership with the Tokyo Metropolitan Government and supported by 500 Global, the playbook provides insights into navigating Japan’s venture capital landscape and fostering deeper ecosystem ties. It outlines how investors can leverage complementary strengths, understand cultural nuances, and engage more effectively across markets. With experience supporting 2,000+ startups and 50+ accelerator programs, JETRO aims to expand global investment pathways and strengthen bilateral innovation networks through this initiative.

UAE Signs MoU with Sheraa to Boost Startup and SME Growth

e& UAE signed an MoU with the Sharjah Entrepreneurship Center (Sheraa) to support startups and SMEs in the UAE. The collaboration focuses on providing access to business solutions, infrastructure, procurement opportunities, and workshops. The initiative aims to enhance innovation, improve market readiness, and support long-term growth of startups through corporate and ecosystem collaboration.

Nepal–India Startup Sambad Highlights Cross-Border Innovation

The Nepal–India Startup Sambad was held in Kathmandu to highlight cross-border startup collaboration. The event showcased startups participating in the India–Nepal Startup Partnership Network, with Nepali startups undergoing residency at IIT Madras. Several startups received offers for investment and incubation. The initiative emphasized regional cooperation, youth entrepreneurship, and institutional support across both countries.

SMBC to Launch Startup Video Pitch Platform

Sumitomo Mitsui Banking Corporation announced plans to launch a startup video pitch platform in collaboration with GoAhead Ventures. The platform will be used as a deal-flow source for its venture fund and aims to provide startups with equal pitching opportunities regardless of geography. SMBC also plans to promote the platform within Japan to strengthen startup-investor connectivity.

Ho Chi Minh City Venture Capital Fund Set to Unlock Startup Growth: Ho Chi Minh City plans to establish a public-private venture capital fund to address funding gaps in its startup ecosystem. The fund will support startups in sectors such as AI, fintech, and agri-tech, with the goal of backing high-growth firms and improving the city’s global startup ranking. The fund is expected to expand over time to support long-term ecosystem development.

Active Startup India Challenges and Competitions

Alibaba.com Launches Global Export Enablement Challenge for Indian Startups

Alibaba.com has introduced the Global Export Enablement Challenge to empower Indian MSMEs to access the $26 trillion global B2B e‑commerce market by partnering with DPIIT‑recognised startups. The programme seeks “Digital Growth Partners” with experience in export tech, B2B e‑commerce, fintech, logistics SaaS, or digital marketing automation to help digitise, onboard, and scale Indian exporters on the platform. Selected startups gain authorised channel partner status, revenue‑sharing opportunities, global mentorship from Alibaba.com leadership, and co‑branded marketing support. The multi‑phase selection process includes shortlisting, pitch‑deck submission, evaluation, and final partner announcements via Startup India, aiming to strengthen India’s digital export ecosystem. Application will close on 16 Feb 2026.

SUSTAINOVATION CHALLENGE 2.0

SUSTAINOVATION CHALLENGE 2.0, led by AIC RAISE in collaboration with Startup India (DPIIT), supports DPIIT‑recognized startups offering MVP or market-ready solutions in climate tech, clean energy, circular economy, water resilience, and social impact. The program targets startups across agriculture, green tech, AI, IoT, waste management, and sustainability domains. It seeks scalable innovations addressing clean energy access, waste-to-value systems, water conservation, green livelihoods, and environmental intelligence. Two winning startups will receive ₹5 Lakhs each in seed funding, along with incubation, mentorship, investor access, pilot support, and national visibility. Shortlisted startups undergo a 14‑week incubation program. Application will close on 15 Feb 2026.

ADYA LAUNCH LAB AI (ALL AI)

Adya Launch Lab AI (ALL AI), in partnership with Startup India, aims to empower 40,000 developers and 10,000 startups to build India’s largest open AI ecosystem. The program offers lifetime-free access to Adya’s no‑code AI platform to build agents, apps, multi-agent systems, and custom LLMs. Participants gain VC access, cloud credits, global GTM support, hiring opportunities, and visibility at the India AI Impact Summit. Open to all innovators, the challenge rewards top solutions with up to ₹2 Lakhs and marketplace exposure. Applications close on 20 Feb 2026.

Avaana Startup India Grand Challenge for Deep Tech Innovation

The Avaana–Startup India Grand Challenge 2025–26, launched with DPIIT and Startup India, is India’s leading deep tech platform supporting early‑stage startups and research innovators. Now in its third edition, it identifies breakthrough solutions in Energy & Mobility, Advanced Manufacturing, Space Tech, AI & Automation, Next‑Gen Materials, and an Emerging Pioneers track for research-stage innovators. The initiative has previously enabled ₹2.5 Cr+ in non‑dilutive grants, 100+ strategic partnerships, and national recognition for frontier technologies. This year’s challenge aims to accelerate innovation aligned with India’s strategic priorities, fostering scientific depth, economic resilience, and global competitiveness for a future-ready Viksit Bharat.

Strategic Minerals & Magnet Manufacturing Innovation Challenge Launched

The Strategic Minerals, Materials & Magnet Manufacturing Innovation Challenge invites Indian startups, MSMEs, and innovators to develop solutions in advanced magnetic materials, precision engineering, rare‑earth processing, recycling, and circular systems. The initiative aims to strengthen indigenous manufacturing, reduce import dependence, and advance critical material value chains. Eligible applicants may be at any stage—from idea to early commercialization—and must demonstrate innovation and scalability. The challenge focuses on four themes: advanced materials, precision manufacturing, rare‑earth recycling, and sustainable circular systems. Selected participants will receive grants up to ₹5 lakh, along with mentorship and incubation support to accelerate deep‑tech development in strategic sectors.

BATIC 2025: Driving Agri-Tech Innovation for a Sustainable Future

BATIC 2025, the 7th edition of MAGIC’s flagship program, is a national innovation challenge focused on transforming agriculture through technology. It aims to empower startups and innovators to develop scalable solutions in precision farming, automation, climate resilience, sustainable inputs, and digital transformation. Supported by central and state ministries, industry leaders, and CSR partners, BATIC nurtures innovation from Tier 2 and 3 cities. The program offers mentorship, funding, and commercialization support, culminating in a Grand Finale on 14 February 2026 with a ₹6.7 lakh prize pool, connecting top innovators with investors, corporates, and government stakeholders.