Where Student Startups Level Up
Since 2020, the Grand Challenge has helped student founders get noticed, meet investors and grow their startups.
Can You Apply?
You can apply if you meet the following criteria
Current Student, Dropout or Graduate
You are a current student, dropout or graduate from 2023 onwards.
Holding at Least 25% Equity
You must own at least 25% equity in the company you are building.
Any Academic Background
Undergraduate, postgraduate and PhD founders are eligible to apply.
See What the Final Level Looks Like
The Hall of Fame
Meet the student startups discovered through the Grand Challenge
The Leaderboard
Meet the top three startups from every edition
2025
1st Prize
Novyte Materials
Institute of Chemical Technology
2nd Prize
Cosma Therapeutics
Delhi University
3rd Prize
Rhygen
IIT Bombay
2024
1st Prize
NCF Labs
IIT Bombay
2nd Prize
Poccet Labs
AIIMS Delhi
3rd Prize
Kuberns
VIT
2022
Meet the Jury
Leading founders, investors and business leaders who have judged the Grand Challenge.
Powering the Grand Challenge
Meet the organisations helping us reach and support student founders across India.
FAQ
Current students, dropouts and people who graduated in 2023 or later can apply.
Yes. Students from all three groups can apply.
Yes
Yes. At least one eligible founder must own 25% or more of the company.
Yes. Eligible founders from across India can apply.
No. Applying is free.
Applications close on October 10, 2026.
The Top 15 startups will be announced in November 2026.
The Grand Finale will take place in Mumbai on December 10, 2026. We will cover the outstation finalists’ travel and accommodation.
You will pitch your startup live to a jury of leading investors, founders and business leaders.