The programme is designed to reach all 36 states and union territories, more than 800 districts, and multiple language communities, creating a platform for aspiring innovators from every corner of the country.
Announcing the initiative, Gautam Adani reflected on his own journey and emphasized the need to expand opportunities beyond major urban centres. He said that when he began his journey, he had nothing and that everything he achieved was made possible by the opportunities provided by the nation. He noted that while India possesses immense talent, opportunities have not always reached every region equally.
Highlighting the country’s entrepreneurial landscape, Adani stated that India has built one of the world’s largest startup ecosystems. However, he pointed out that most founders continue to emerge from only a handful of cities. According to him, ‘Vande Bharatam’ seeks to discover innovators, entrepreneurs, and problem-solvers whose ideas deserve recognition, support, and a broader platform. He invited individuals across the country with the determination to build and create to participate in the initiative.
The programme is open to anyone with an idea, innovation, solution, or entrepreneurial ambition, regardless of age, profession, educational background, or stage of development. Participants may apply with a concept, prototype, early-stage venture, or established business. Registration as a startup is not a requirement for participation.
Entries will be accepted from a diverse range of sectors, including technology, manufacturing, sustainability, agriculture, traditional crafts, and community-driven solutions. The initiative will also feature dedicated pathways to encourage participation from women entrepreneurs, tribal entrepreneurs, rural innovators, entrepreneurs with disabilities, and community-based innovators working to address local challenges.
According to the official statement, all applications will undergo a structured evaluation process focusing on innovation, entrepreneurial potential, impact, and scalability. Additional details regarding assessment criteria, jury composition, and selection procedures will be announced at a later stage.
Following state-level and regional evaluations, 75 finalists will be selected and invited to Ahmedabad for an intensive programme that will include mentorship sessions, industry interactions, and engagement with investors and business leaders. The finalists will represent a broad cross-section of talent from different regions, sectors, and communities across the country.
The statement further noted that finalists will gain access to mentors, investors, industry experts, incubation support, and strategic partnerships designed to help transform promising ideas into successful enterprises. The programme will also offer prize money and category-specific recognitions, with further details expected to be announced subsequently.
The Grand Finale is scheduled to take place around Independence Day and will serve as the launchpad for an ongoing engagement platform connecting participants with mentors, investors, industry leaders, and fellow innovators.
Reinforcing the initiative’s core message, Gautam Adani said that if he could succeed, any Indian could achieve similar success when provided with the right opportunity and platform.
India is currently ranked among the world’s leading startup ecosystems. Yet, according to the statement, more than 80 percent of startup founders continue to emerge from only five cities, leaving many aspiring innovators without adequate access to visibility, mentorship, and professional networks.
As India advances toward its long-term national development goals for 2047, the initiative seeks to broaden participation in entrepreneurship and innovation. By creating opportunities for talented individuals across regions and communities, ‘Vande Bharatam’ aims to contribute to economic growth, job creation, and the development of solutions to local and national challenges.
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