Six Youth-Led Startups Win Youth Co:Lab National Innovation Challenge

Six youth-led startups from across India have been recognized as winners of the 8th edition of the Youth Co:Lab National Innovation Challenge 2026 for developing innovative solutions that advance sustainability through circular economy innovations, sustainable textiles and fashion, and sustainable food systems and water conservation.

Co-led by the United Nations Development Programme (UNDP) India and Citi Foundation, in partnership with Atal Innovation Mission (AIM), and implemented by T-Hub Foundation, the Youth Co:Lab National Innovation Challenge has emerged as one of India’s foremost platforms for empowering youth-led innovation that accelerates progress towards the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs).

This year, the challenge received over 350 applications from youth-led startups across 28 states. Following a rigorous selection process, 50 high-potential startups were enrolled in the National Springboard Programme, a three-month virtual capacity-building journey supported by a curated group of 16 industry mentors and domain specialists.(UPDATED ON 24TH JUNE 2026)