Gautam Adani, Chairman of the Adani Group, launched Vande Bharatam, a national initiative to identify and support innovators, entrepreneurs, and changemakers from all over India. The programme is designed to take opportunities beyond the start‑up hubs and to reach all 36 states and Union Territories as well as more than 800 districts.
A nationwide search for talent. Vande Bharatam will conduct a multi-stage search for entrepreneurial talent across geographies, sectors, languages, and communities. Seventy‑five finalists will be selected and invited to Ahmedabad for an immersive programme leading to a Grand Finale around Independence Day. All ages and backgrounds are welcome to participate whether they have a concept, prototype, early-stage venture, or established business.
Expanding Beyond Start‑Up Hubs
India has one of the world’s best start-up ecosystems, but more than 80% of founders originate from five cities. Vande Bharatam is working to change that by identifying innovators from small cities, rural, and tribal areas so that entrepreneurial opportunities reach the entire country.
Inclusive Participation
Entries are invited from all sectors including technology, manufacturing, sustainability, agriculture, traditional crafts, community‑led solutions, and more. We will also design pathways for women entrepreneurs, tribal innovators, Divyang entrepreneurs, and grassroots changemakers to address local issues.
Structured Evaluation
Applications will be evaluated for innovation, entrepreneurial potential, impact, and scalability. The state and regional rounds will precede the national selection as there are different kinds of communities in India and they need to be represented in the process. Finalists will receive mentorship, industry interaction, investors, incubation support, strategic partners, and prize money and category-based recognition.
Adani’s Vision
Gautam Adani said: “When I started my journey, I had nothing. Everything I am and everything I have achieved was given to me by the soil of Bharat. There is no shortage of talent in our country, but opportunity has not always extended to all corners of the country.” Vande Bharatam is also about finding innovative entrepreneurs and innovators.
Grand Finale and ongoing engagement. The Grand Finale, around Independence Day, will be the beginning of an ongoing engagement platform that connects participants with mentors, investors, and fellow innovators. Applications are being accepted on June 24 at vandebharatam.org.
Ambassador. Rajeev Khandelwal, a great actor and entrepreneur, will serve as Ambassador and host of Vande Bharatam, and will work to promote and champion entrepreneurial talent in India.
