The Department for Promotion of Industry and Internal Trade under the Ministry of Commerce and Industry has officially launched the fifth edition of the National Startup Awards (NSA), inviting applications from startups across India that are driving innovation, social impact and scalable change. The awards serve as a flagship initiative under the Startup India program and reflect the Government’s broader vision of Aatmanirbhar Bharat and a five-trillion-dollar economy.
Since its inception in 2019, NSA has spotlighted startups not only for their commercial success but also for their contributions to sustainability, equity and technological progress. More than 2,300 applications were received in the most recent edition, underscoring the growing significance of the initiative.
Startups from diverse domains including agriculture, clean energy, fintech, aerospace, cybersecurity, education, accessibility and healthcare are eligible to apply. A rigorous multi-stage evaluation process involving expert panels—comprising industry veterans, investors, academicians and officials—ensures that winners reflect national development priorities and sectoral diversity.
Beyond financial rewards, NSA winners receive significant exposure, policy handholding, global visibility and access to strategic networks. Past recipients such as Innaumation Medical Devices, Micob and Blackfrog Technologies have gone on to influence government policy, secure defence contracts and export to multiple international markets.
Launched in 2016, Startup India has transformed the entrepreneurial landscape in India, having recognised over 175,000 startups from nearly every district. The program supports founders through tax exemptions, regulatory ease, funding opportunities and capacity building. NSA continues to be a vital pillar in this journey, offering a national platform to the country’s brightest changemakers and boldest ideas.
Applications are now open through the official portal.
