7th Edition Of Himalayan Startup Trek Will Offer Opportunity To Raise Upto INR 50 Lakhs

Indian Institute of Technology Mandi’s Technology Business Incubator, Catalyst is going to host the seventh edition of its Annual Flagship Event, Himalayan Startup Trek (HST) from September 29 to October 1, 2023.

The event features a Grand Challenge for startups, innovators and aspiring entrepreneurs that has INR six lakh cash prizes. Top startups will also have the opportunity to raise upto INR 50 lakhs. The last date to apply is August 20, 2023.

The startup pitch competition will have thematic areas including The New Age Alliance - Human-Computer Interaction (HCI), Problem Statements in Human Computer Interaction, and The Foothill Innovators Challenge - Build for the Himalayas, The Habitable World Challenge - Environment and Sustainability.

Each thematic area has prize money of up to INR two Lakhs to be distributed between the top three startups in the given theme. Top start-ups will be provided incubation support and access to funding schemes for prototyping as well product development up to INR 50 lakhs. These startups will also get piloting opportunities in the state.

Prof. Laxmidhar Behera, Director IIT Mandi urged entrepreneurs and innovators from the Himachal region to participate in this edition of the HST Startup Grand Challenge 2023 and showcase their innovations and ideas.

Dr. Puran Singh, Faculty Incharge and Director Incubation, IIT Mandi Catalyst said, “I am thrilled to witness the incredible growth and success of HST. HST unites us as a community, offering unwavering support to startups tackling pressing challenges with ingenious tech-based solutions. The boundless enthusiasm and dedication of our stakeholders for this year’s HST will solidify its position as one of the nation’s most influential startup events. Let’s unite and celebrate the spirit of innovation and entrepreneurship.”

Meanwhile, Rakesh Kumar Prajapati, Director of Industries, Himachal Pradesh, said, “I am delighted to witness the remarkable growth of Himalayan Startup Trek, which has now emerged as the biggest startup event in the Himalayas. It truly symbolizes the thriving startup ecosystem in our state, and the Himachal Government takes immense pride in being a partner in this journey. As we eagerly look forward to the 7th edition of HST, I am excited about the prospect of attracting startups that are passionately committed to solving the pressing challenges of the Himalayan region. We would be happy to provide the necessary support for the successful materialization and deployment of these innovative solutions wherever feasible.”

Anil Joshi, Member Secretary of the HP State Pollution Control Board, expresses support for the Himalayan Startup Trek, organized by IIT Mandi Catalyst. The Trek has grown remarkably, showcasing the spirit of innovation in our Himalayan region. Addressing environmental concerns and sustainability is a priority, and I eagerly anticipate meeting startups committed to finding solutions. Together, we can foster a vibrant startup ecosystem that drives positive change and preserves the natural beauty of our beloved Himalayas. Let's envision a greener and more sustainable future through this remarkable event.

Every year, the event brings together the stakeholders of the Indian startup ecosystem including entrepreneurs, industrialists, investors, experts, government, and budding start-ups.

The event has been planned on a large scale and is expecting a footfall of about 1000 including 800 startups founders and aspiring entrepreneurs from across the country, over 200 speakers, investors and senior government officials including bureaucrats.

Through its support programmes, IIT Mandi Catalyst guides early-stage entrepreneurial initiatives by providing support in infrastructure, finances, mentoring, and industry connections, thereby making itself an attractive destination for startups across the country.