Youth Co:Lab winners honoured for sustainability innovation at Hyderabad finale
Hyderabad: Youth Co:Lab winners received grants and recognition in Hyderabad after developing innovative solutions in sustainability, circular economy, textiles and food systems at the National Innovation Challenge 2026.
The Youth Co:Lab winners emerged from a nationwide competition that attracted more than 350 applications from youth-led startups across 28 states. UNDP India and Citi Foundation co-led the initiative in partnership with Atal Innovation Mission (AIM), while T-Hub Foundation implemented the programme.
Organisers shortlisted 50 startups for the National Springboard Programme. The three-month virtual initiative connected participants with 16 industry mentors and domain experts. The startups focused on sustainable textiles, circular economy innovations, and food and water sustainability solutions.
Subsequently, all shortlisted ventures presented their ideas at the National Innovation Dialogue on June 4. After evaluations, the top 20 startups advanced to the Regional Immersion Bootcamp at T-Hub in Hyderabad from June 15 to June 19.
The bootcamp offered mentorship sessions, industry interactions, site visits and networking opportunities. As a result, participants refined their business strategies and strengthened their growth plans.
Youth Co:Lab winners receive grants and support
Following the final jury assessment, organisers selected six startups for their scalable and impactful solutions. NavaPrayoga Labs LLP (Grassip), UnBubble and Ecorenowa Solutions Pvt. Ltd. emerged as winners. Meanwhile, Eco Cushion, Vasudeva Innovations and WomenasticCO secured runner-up positions.
The winning startups received seed grants of ₹3.5 lakh each. In addition, organisers provided ecosystem access and capacity-building support. The runners-up received grants of ₹2.2 lakh each.
Speaking at the event, Telangana Innovation Cell CEO Meraj Faheem said youth-led innovation can address major sustainability challenges. He added that collaboration and ecosystem support help entrepreneurs create meaningful impact.
Atal Innovation Mission Programme Director Prateek Deshmukh said India must distribute capital, mentorship and opportunities more evenly. Therefore, initiatives such as Youth Co:Lab play a key role in supporting founders from diverse backgrounds.
UNDP India Resident Representative Dr Angela Lusigi highlighted India’s youth population as a major strength. Furthermore, she noted that more than 40 per cent of the selected ventures were women-led, reflecting the diversity of the innovation ecosystem.
The event also featured discussions on inclusive innovation, investment opportunities and sustainable entrepreneurship. Industry leaders, investors and development professionals shared insights on scaling impact-driven startups across the country.
