The Department for Promotion of Industry and Internal Trade (DPIIT) announced on 27 October 2026 the launch of the 6th Edition of the National Startup Awards (NSA 6.0). The awards recognise excellence across 20 sectoral categories and three special categories, including a new award for student innovators. Winning startups in sectoral and two special categories can receive a cash prize of ₹25 lakh each, while the student award has a total prize pool of ₹25 lakh. Eligible startups and students can apply via the Startup India portal from 27 October to 20 November 2026.
Key points
- Apply by 20 November 2026 via www.startupindia.gov.in
- Cash prizes of ₹25 lakh per category for winning sectoral and specific special startups
- New Student Innovator / Aspiring Entrepreneur Award with a ₹25 lakh total prize pool
- Covers 20 sectoral categories, including 12 new ones like Space-Tech and Biomanufacturing
- Special categories include Women-Led Startups and North-East Startup Excellence
When it applies
- application window for NSA 6.0
- application window for NSA 6.0
Who it affects
- winning startups