The Department for Promotion of Industry and Internal Trade (DPIIT) has opened applications for the fifth edition of the National Startup Awards (NSA), a key initiative under the Startup India programme, led by the Ministry of Commerce and Industry.
Launched in 2019, the awards aim to recognise startups that not only demonstrate economic success but also make significant strides in sustainability, scalability, and social impact.
These awards are part of the government's broader vision of building an Aatmanirbhar Bharat and moving towards a five-trillion-dollar economy. Over the years, the NSA has gained recognition for its credibility, and the last edition saw more than 2,300 applications.
By recognising and supporting innovative startups, the awards open doors to tax exemptions, regulatory ease, access to funding, and other capacity-building opportunities.
Startups from various sectors, such as agriculture, fintech, health, clean energy, aerospace, education, cybersecurity, and accessibility, are encouraged to apply.
Each edition of the awards introduces new categories to reflect national priorities and challenges in innovation. It's a chance for startups to showcase their potential in a wide array of industries.
The selection process for NSA is thorough and multi-faceted. It includes eligibility screening, sector-specific shortlisting, and a detailed assessment by expert panels. These panels consist of investors, industry leaders, academicians, and senior government officials.
The DPIIT oversees the entire process, coordinating with relevant ministries to ensure fairness and transparency.
Winners in the general award categories stand a chance to receive a cash prize of ₹10 lakh, along with priority access to national and international startup events where DPIIT is involved. But the benefits go beyond the prize money.
Recognition through the NSA brings national credibility, opening doors to investors, mentors, and policymakers. Winners gain enhanced exposure and a platform to grow their business, often leading to international expansion and even influencing national policy.
Past winners of the NSA have made their mark in various ways. For example, Innaumation Medical Devices, recognised for its innovative voice prosthesis, later gained visibility at the Tata Social Enterprise Challenge and international forums.
Micob, another winner, participated in the ‘President with Startups’ initiative and secured defence orders through iDEX. Blackfrog Technologies, known for its WHO-prequalified Emvolio vaccine carrier, is now serving across 16 Indian states and countries like Kenya and Nigeria.