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Vande Bharatam campaign has been initiated by Gautam Adani to empower budding entrepreneurs and foster innovation. This campaign aims to improve the start-up ecosystem across the nation. This special scheme is being launched on the occasion of the 64th birthday of Gautam Adani. It will be launched in all the 36 states and union territories, over 800 districts, and several languages of India.
Gautam Adani, Chairman of the Adani Group, on Thursday (June 25, 2026) launched a national initiative named 'Vande Bharatam' to identify and support innovators, entrepreneurs and problem-solvers from across India.
"When I began 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 nation, but opportunity has not always reached every corner of the country," said Gautam Adani.
The initiative is open to anyone with an idea, innovation, solution, or entrepreneurial ambition, irrespective of age, profession, educational background, or stage of development.
"India has built one of the world's largest startup ecosystems, yet most founders still emerge from a handful of cities. Vande Bharatam is our effort to discover the innovators, problem-solvers, and entrepreneurs whose ideas deserve recognition, support, and a larger platform. We invite every Indian with the courage to build and the determination to create to come forward and participate," the Adani Group Chairman noted.
Participants may apply with a concept, prototype, early-stage venture or established business. A registered startup is not required. Applications opened on June 24 at vandebharatam.org.
Applications will undergo a structured evaluation process focused on innovation, entrepreneurial potential, impact, and scalability. Additional details relating to assessment criteria, jury composition, and selection stages will be announced in due course.
Entries are invited from a wide range of sectors, including technology, manufacturing, sustainability, agriculture, traditional crafts, and community-led solutions. Dedicated pathways will encourage participation from women entrepreneurs, tribal entrepreneurs, rural innovators, Divyang entrepreneurs, and community-based innovators, addressing local challenges, according to the statement.
Following state and regional evaluations, 75 finalists will be invited to Ahmedabad for an intensive programme featuring mentorship, industry interactions, and engagement with investors and business leaders. Together, they will represent a cross-section of talent from across regions, sectors, and communities.
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According to the statement, finalists will gain access to mentors, investors, industry leaders, incubation support, and strategic partnerships that can help transform ideas into enterprises. The Grand Finale is scheduled around Independence Day. It will mark the beginning of an ongoing engagement platform connecting participants with mentors, investors, industry leaders, and fellow innovators.
"If I can do it, any Indian can do it. All they need is an opportunity and a stage," Gautam Adani said.
The Vande Bharatam program can open up fresh avenues for potential entrepreneurs through better availability of mentorship and networks. With the expansion of the Indian startup ecosystem, such programs can provide startups with a boost to grow and innovate with greater confidence.
