*INVESTMENT OPPORTUNITY FOR START UPS - GOVERNMENT PROGRAM (DPIIT)* The Department for Promotion of Industry and Internal Trade (DPIIT), in collaboration with Avaana Capital, LetsVenture, Karnataka Digital Economy Mission (KDEM), IVCA, HDFC, and other esteemed partners, is thrilled to announce the launch of the Startup Maha Rathi challenge as part of the second edition of Startup Mahakumbh. This flagship initiative, "Startup Maha Rathi – Rising towards Viksit Bharat", is designed to empower Indian startups from every corner of the country with crucial funding, mentorship, and strategic guidance, directly aligning with India’s vision of becoming a developed economy (Viksit Bharat) by 2047. *Key Highlights of The Challenge:* *Significant Funding:* Access to a potential ₹30 Cr fund. Expert Mentorship: Guidance from leading industry veterans. *Global Networking* : Opportunities to connect with global investors. National Recognition: The winners will be felicitated by the Hon'ble Minister of Commerce and Industry. *Emerging State Recognition* : Special awards for innovative startups from emerging states and union territories. *Financial Grants* : Every startup shortlisted for the grand jury round will receive a guaranteed ₹1 Lakh. The top two startups from each sector will be awarded ₹10 Lakh respectively, while the next five will receive ₹5 Lakh each. Next 5 startups in each track will gain access to ₹3 Lakhs each *Investor Access:* Guidance and investor access through a jury comprising 100+ leading VCs, angel investors, and domain specialists. Key Sectors: The challenge focuses on 11 critical sectors: AI & DeepTech, BioTech & *Healthtech* , Gaming & Sports, Fintech, Incubators & Accelerators, Mobility, Agritech, B2B & Precision Manufacturing, D2C, ClimateTech, and Defence & SpaceTech. *Challenge Timeline & Process:* *Applications Open* : 26th February 2025. *Applications Deadline:* 7th March 2025. Live Pitching Finale: 3rd-5th April 2025, at Bharat Mandapam, New Delhi. Structured, multi-phase selection process leading to the finale. Why Participate? *This is a unique opportunity to:* Gain exposure to global markets through Startup India. Scale your operations and contribute to India's technological and economic advancement. Receive national-level recognition by DPIIT. We encourage all eligible startups to seize this incredible opportunity. *How to Apply:* For more information and to register, please visit the application portal. https://www.startupindia.gov.in/content/sih/en/ams-application/challenge.html?applicationId=67bdbb76e4b0c167e9f99da2 Please keep an eye on the DPIIT and Startup India websites for updates. We look forward to your participation in the Startup Maha Rathi challenge.