National Entrepreneurship Challenge 2026

About

The National Entrepreneurship Challenge (NEC) is a 5-6 month competition organized by E-Cell IIT Bombay, aimed at fostering student entrepreneurship across India, offering mentorship, networking opportunities, and cash prizes for participating teams.

Benefits

• 💰Cash Prizes
  Winners will receive cash prizes worth INR 7 Lakhs
• 📜Certification
  Certification from Asia's Largest Student-run Entrepreneurship Cell
• 🤝Mentorship
  Receive mentorship from E-Cell, IIT Bombay
• 🌐Networking
  Build your network of startups, investors, and enthusiasts
• 🎟️ Free Passes
  Get free passes for the Entrepreneurship Summit (E-Summit'26)

Eligibility Criteria

• Teams must be from colleges in India
• Teams can register in Basic or Advanced Track based on prior participation
• Teams must consist of 5 or more members
• New teams without an existing E-Cell are encouraged to register in the Basic Track

Participation Commitments

• The challenge lasts 5-6 months
• Teams must submit tasks by October 18, 2026
• Top 10 teams from previous years must participate in the Advanced Track
• Registering before the deadline provides extra points

Target Sector

Student entrepreneurship and innovation

Target Location

India