UNDP Youth Co:Lab National Innovation Challenge 2026 India
UNDP India
📌 About the Event
The Youth Co:Lab National Innovation Challenge 2026 is co created by UNDP, the Citi Foundation, and Atal Innovation Mission (AIM), implemented in partnership with T-Hub, Hyderabad. It invites youth led startups, businesses, and NGOs across India working in sustainable textiles and fashion, circular economy innovations, and sustainable food systems and water conservation. The initiative provides seed capital, mentorship, and a national platform to turn early-stage ideas into scalable ventures aligned with the SDGs.
ℹ️ Event Details
- Category: Social Entrepreneurship, Sustainability, SDG Innovation
- Organizer: UNDP India, Citi Foundation, Atal Innovation Mission, T-Hub
- Eligibility: Youth-led startups, businesses, or NGOs in India with at least one founder aged 15 to 29; age extended to 35 for women, persons with disabilities, LGBTQIA+, tribal youth, and religious minorities
- Open To: Only India
- Team Size: Team-based startups or organizations
- Effort Level: High
- Submission Type: Online application with startup details and solution proposal
📅 Important Dates
- Applications Open: Now
- Application Deadline: Check official UNDP India portal for current deadline
- National Springboard Programme: 50 selected startups participate
- National Innovation Dialogue: Top 20 startups present to jury
- Regional Immersion Programme: Top 20 at T Hub, Hyderabad, 5 days
- Mode: Hybrid, online application, in-person immersion at T-Hub
🏆 Prize Details and Value
- Prize Type: Seed grant funding
- Prize Amount: Up to Rs. 3,50,000 in seed grants for Top 6 startups
- Certificates: Yes, recognition from UNDP and AIM
🔗 Apply Here: UNDP India Youth Co:Lab2026