National Startup Awards 5.0 – Your Chance to Shine on the Big Stage!

India's startup ecosystem is booming, with innovators tackling real-world problems and creating impactful solutions. To celebrate and support these trailblazers, the National Startup Awards 5.0 (NSA 2025) are now open for applications!

If you're a DPIIT-recognized startup making waves in your industry, this is your opportunity to gain national recognition and propel your venture to new heights.

Apply Now: https://www.startupindia.gov.in/content/sih/en/nsa2025.html

What is the National Startup Awards?

The National Startup Awards, initiated by the Department for Promotion of Industry and Internal Trade (DPIIT), aim to recognize startups and ecosystem enablers that are building innovative products or solutions and have the potential to scale and create significant impact in India.

Key evaluation criteria include:

• Innovation
• Scalability
• Social Impact
• Sustainability
• Job Creation
• Inclusivity

Key Dates and Application Process

Here's how you can apply:

1. Visit the Official Portal: NSA 2025 Application Page
2. Login/Register: Ensure your startup is recognized by DPIIT.
3. Choose Categories: You can apply in up to two categories and save drafts for up to four.
4. Fill in Details: Provide necessary information and upload required documents.
5. Submit Application: Review and submit your application before the deadline.

Application Deadline: The last date to apply for the National Startup Awards 5.0 is June 15, 2025. Make sure to submit your application well before this date!

Evaluation Process:

• Initial Screening: Verification of documents and eligibility.
• Jury Evaluation: Assessment by a panel of experts.
• Interviews: Shortlisted startups may be invited for interviews.
• Final Selection: Winners are chosen based on cumulative scores.

Awards and Benefits

Winners of NSA 5.0 will receive:

• ₹10 Lakh Cash Prize: Each winning startup will be awarded a cash prize of ₹10 lakh.
• National Recognition: Gain visibility and credibility at a national level.
• Mentorship Opportunities: Access to guidance from industry leaders and experts.
• Networking: Connect with potential investors, partners, and fellow entrepreneurs.
• Government Support: Priority consideration for participation in various national and international startup events sponsored by DPIIT.

Eligibility Criteria

To apply for NSA 5.0, ensure your startup meets the following criteria:

• DPIIT Recognition: Your startup must be recognized by the Department for Promotion of Industry and Internal Trade.
• Incorporation Date: The startup should have been incorporated on or after April 1, 2014.
• Product/Service Availability: Your startup should have a product or service in the market.
• Previous Winners: Startups that have previously won in any category of the National Startup Awards are not eligible to apply again.

Award Categories

NSA 5.0 features a diverse range of categories to accommodate various sectors and innovations:

• Women-led Innovator Award
• Agri Innovation Award
• Health-Tech Excellence Award
• Fintech Revolution Catalyst Award
• Best Deeptech Startup Award
• Circular Economy Innovator Award
• Inclusive Design Excellence Award
• Urban Mobility Excellence Award
• Community Development Catalyst Award
• Creative Industry Disruptor Award
• NextGen Innovator
• Humanitarian Impact Award
• Make in India Excellence Award
• Aspire Award: Building from the Heart of India
• Innovation Trailblazers from the North-East and Hilly States and Union Territories
• Rising Star Award
• Bootstrapped Startup Award
• Visionary Award for Infrastructure Excellence
• Supply Chain Startup of the Year Award
• F&B Trailblazer Award

Important Reminder

Before submitting your application, please visit the official National Startup Awards 5.0 website and carefully cross-check all eligibility criteria, application details, deadlines, and instructions to ensure your application is complete and accurate

Best of luck to all applicants! Let's continue to drive innovation and make a difference.