YouthNet invites startups for MeitY GENESIS funding

Kohima, August 23 (MExN): YouthNet has invited applications from technology-driven startups and aspiring entrepreneurs in Nagaland for the MeitY GENESIS Entrepreneur-in-Residence (EiR) 3.0 programme, which offers funding support of up to Rs 10 lakh to help innovators transform promising ideas into scalable ventures.

The programme is part of Gen-Next Support for Innovative Startups (GENESIS), an initiative of the Ministry of Electronics and Information Technology (MeitY) and MeitY Startup Hub (MSH), aimed at strengthening India's technology startup ecosystem, particularly in Tier-II and Tier-III cities.

Neikepekho Shosahie, Associate Director of YouthNet, described the initiative as a significant opportunity for technology entrepreneurs from Nagaland and the Northeast to access strategic funding, expert mentorship and national-level exposure.

"MeitY GENESIS provides a valuable platform for entrepreneurs from emerging regions to validate their ideas, strengthen their business models and develop innovative solutions capable of competing beyond local markets," Shosahie said.

He said the first and second phases of the programme are already underway, with several startups from Nagaland selected under various GENESIS components and benefiting from financial assistance, incubation, mentorship and venture-development support.

"The progress under the earlier phases demonstrates that entrepreneurs from Nagaland have the ideas and potential to participate meaningfully in India's growing innovation economy. The third phase provides another opportunity for aspiring founders and early-stage startups to access support that can help take their ventures forward," Shosahie added.

YouthNet Incubation Centre, the programme's only implementing partner in Nagaland, will support selected participants through structured incubation, expert guidance, business-model development and access to relevant industry and startup networks.

The Entrepreneur-in-Residence programme is designed to help students, innovators and early-stage entrepreneurs validate their ideas, refine their products and build sustainable businesses. Its broader objective is to encourage technology-led entrepreneurship and expand access to startup opportunities beyond established metropolitan centres.

Selected applicants under EiR 3.0 may receive financial support of up to Rs 10 lakh, depending on the nature of the innovation, along with incubation and mentorship support.

Applications will remain open until September 3, 2026.

Further information is available through YouthNet's website and official social media platforms. Applications can be submitted through the designated online application link.