-Over 100 Startups Participate as Punjab Showcases Its Growing Innovation Ecosystem; State Government Distributes Seed Grants & Incentives to Boost Startup Culture
-Mann Government Pledges Full Support to Every New Business Idea; Urges Youth to Become Job Creators Instead of Job Seekers
“Update and Create” – Punjab’s New Mantra for Youth-Led Growth and Innovation
Punjab’s Future Lies in Entrepreneurship, Not Job Hunting: CM Mann
PHAGWARA, 12th January
Punjab Chief Minister Bhagwant Mann today inaugurated the state’s first Startup Punjab Conclave 2026 at Lovely Professional University (LPU) in Kapurthala. Organized by the Department of Industries and Commerce, Government of Punjab, the conclave served as a flagship state-level platform to celebrate innovation, entrepreneurship, and Punjab’s rapidly expanding startup ecosystem.
With more than 100 startups participating, seed grants being distributed, and key stakeholders—including industry leaders, investors, incubators, academic experts, and policymakers—coming together, the event sent a clear message: the Bhagwant Mann government stands fully behind every promising business idea and is committed to turning Punjab’s youth from job seekers into job creators.
Addressing the entrepreneurs, CM Bhagwant Singh Mann said:
“Our clear objective is to transform Punjab’s youth from job seekers into job givers, so they can carve out a unique identity for themselves. Punjabis are natural engineers and born entrepreneurs—that’s why they succeed in whatever they do.”
He assured full governmental support, stating:
“There is no shortage of funds. The government will help every single viable idea proposed by our business leaders.”
Introducing the slogan “Update and Create”, the Chief Minister emphasized that this is the new mantra for youth-led progress and innovation in Punjab. He stressed that the state’s future depends on entrepreneurship, not on hunting for jobs.
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Drawing inspiration from his recent visit to Japan, CM Mann highlighted how a clear vision for the future drives national progress. He cited Japan’s efficient single-window transport systems and long average lifespan (over 100 years in some regions) as examples of forward-thinking mindset and dedication. He urged Punjab’s youth to adopt similar discipline, hard work, and vision to achieve global success.
The Chief Minister expressed pride that the conclave has become a major platform to showcase Punjab’s vibrant and fast-growing startup ecosystem to the world. He noted:
“More than 100 startups from across the state are participating here. Over 15 incubators and more than five support organizations are also displaying their initiatives.”
He announced special incentive cheques to eight startups:
- Seven startups received ₹3 lakh each as seed grants
- One startup received ₹1.20 lakh as lease rental assistance
“Startups are not just businesses—they are the biggest engines for job creation and economic growth in the state,” he said.
Taking a dig at previous governments, CM Mann remarked:
“In the past, people were afraid of succeeding because leaders demanded a share in their ventures. Those hands were soaked in the blood and sweat of Punjabis. Now, a government of the common people is in power, giving everyone a fair chance to succeed.”
Reiterating the long-term vision, he said the government actively encourages startups solving real-world problems in agriculture, health, education, and administration. The Industrial and Business Development Policy 2022 provides a transparent and robust framework for entrepreneurs.
Special focus is being given to women-led startups and first-generation entrepreneurs. The Chief Minister described Punjab’s strong industrial base and excellent infrastructure as highly favorable for startup growth and called upon investors and industry leaders to trust Punjab’s talent and partner in building a stronger economy.
Inviting youngsters to join the Business Blasters Campaign, he said:
“Punjab’s students are full of unique ideas but often lack recognition. In today’s world, success comes not just from presentation but from relentless hard work.”
Quoting Dr. A.P.J. Abdul Kalam, he reminded the youth: “Dreams are not those that come during sleep—true dreams demand action.”
Encouraging them to become role models, he shared an anecdote about a simple but effective idea that transformed a toothpaste company’s fortunes, and proudly noted that the CEO of Mastercard, as well as the founders of Swiggy and Zomato, are Punjabis.
“The Punjab government is acting as a runway so that every dream can take flight,” he concluded.
Among those present were Cabinet Minister Sanjeev Arora, Lok Sabha MP Dr. Raj Kumar Chabbewal, Rajya Sabha MP Ashok Mittal, and several other dignitaries.
Startup Punjab Conclave 2026 Highlights State’s Push for Innovation-Led Growth
The conclave successfully brought together 75–80 startups, incubators, industry associations, and ecosystem partners who showcased their innovations. Key highlights included:
- An overview of the Startup Punjab ecosystem and government schemes
- Disbursal of seed funding cheques
- Unveiling of startup-related collateral linked to the Invest Punjab Summit
- Thematic panel discussions on incubator support, scaling startups, AI, deep tech, and cybersecurity
The event concluded with recognition of incubators, enablers, and nodal agencies, reinforcing Punjab’s vision of inclusive, sustainable, and innovation-driven economic growth.
