DPIIT seeks top-performing startups for 2025 awards, focusing on sustainability, growth, and cross-sector innovation.
The Department for Promotion of Industry and Internal Trade (DPIIT) has officially announced the invitation for applications for the fifth edition of the National Startup Awards (NSA). This initiative aims to acknowledge and honour high-performing startups across a diverse array of sectors.
The awards cover over 50 sectors and sub-sectors, including agriculture, clean energy, health, fintech, aerospace, and cybersecurity. The evaluation will focus on measurable impact, innovation, and scalability.
Launched in 2019, the National Startup Awards (NSA) is an integral component of the Startup India initiative, having garnered over 2300 applications in previous editions. Winning startups benefit from recognition, access to funding, mentorship, and expanded market opportunities.
This year’s awards are backed by the ₹30 crore Startup Maha Rathi Challenge, which involves various public and private partners to support growth-stage startups.
To enhance regional involvement, the awards will emphasise startups originating from Tier II and Tier III cities. Collaborative outreach initiatives are being implemented alongside media platforms and ecosystem facilitators.
India’s startup ecosystem continues to grow rapidly, with more than 1.75 lakh DPIIT-recognised startups and close to 120 unicorns. The sector has generated over 17 lakh direct jobs to date.
Applications for the 2025 edition are now open and will be evaluated by a panel of experts from government, industry, and academia. The final results are anticipated to be revealed later this year.
