If you have an idea that can start a new business or solve a societal problem, IIT Kanpur is providing you with an opportunity to present it. Teams participating in this competition can receive a cash prize of up to ₹1.5 lakh based on their ideas and work. This initiative is an important part of the 'Viksit Bharat Young Leaders Dialogue 2027' organized by the Ministry of Youth Affairs and Sports of the Central Government, with IIT Kanpur playing the role of knowledge partner.
Interested candidates should note that the last date to apply is October 22, 2026, so time is limited.
YEC 2027 is a nationwide program aimed at identifying innovative ideas and prototypes among youth that can address the social and economic challenges of the country. According to the official notice of My Bharat, under this program, participants get a chance to present their ideas, receive guidance from experts, and showcase their innovation potential at the national level.
As per IIT Kanpur's guidelines, candidates aged between 18 and 35 years can apply for this challenge. Participants can apply individually or as a team of a maximum of three members, provided all team members meet the age criteria. Startup founders can also apply, but they must be recognized under the Startup India initiative by the 'Department for Promotion of Industry and Internal Trade' (DPIIT). Additionally, the applicant must be registered as a Micro, Small and Medium Enterprise (MSME). Professionals working in government departments, private companies, Non-Governmental Organizations (NGOs), or academic institutions can also participate in this competition, although such applicants must submit a No Objection Certificate (NOC) from their institution or employer.
The top five teams performing excellently in this national-level challenge will be rewarded. The team securing first place will receive a cash prize of ₹1.5 lakh. The second-place team will receive ₹1 lakh, the third-place team ₹75 thousand, the fourth-place team ₹50 thousand, and the fifth-place team ₹30 thousand. In addition to cash prizes, selected participants will also get the opportunity to consult with experts from IIT Kanpur. This guidance will be provided both online and offline, helping participants to improve and advance their ideas. However, it is important to remember that the last date to apply is October 22.