Open Call for Avinya’27 Energy Startup Challenge – India

The Avinya’27 Energy Startup Challenge is an initiative by the Government of India to support Indian startups in the energy sector. This competition encourages innovation and development of new technologies aimed at transforming the energy landscape in alignment with the Atmanirbhar Bharat vision. Applications are open until 15 October 2026. Opportunity at a Glance

- Provider: Government of India

- Type: Startup Competition

- Funding/Benefits: Cash prizes, travel and accommodation support, exhibition opportunities

- Eligible Applicants: Indian citizens, DPIIT-recognized startups

- Eligible Countries: India

- Deadline: 15 October 2026

- Event: India Energy Week, January 2027

About the Opportunity

Avinya’27 is designed to identify and promote innovative solutions within the energy sector. The initiative aims to foster entrepreneurial spirit among startups, research enthusiasts, and students by providing a platform to present their ideas and technologies. Successful participants will have the chance to showcase their solutions to industry leaders at the India Energy Week in 2027. Funding and Benefits

- Cash Prizes:

- First Place: INR 3 lakh

- Second Place: INR 2 lakh

- Third Place: INR 1 lakh

- Travel and Accommodation: Support for the top 5 winners for participation in India Energy Week.

- Non-Fiscal Benefits:

- Recognition and exhibition space at India Energy Week. - Access to incubation workspaces and potential investor introductions. - Mentorship and networking with industry experts. - Special recognition for student entrepreneurs. Who Is Eligible?

- Citizenship: Open to Indian citizens.

- Startup Stage: Ideation to early-stage (includes Bootstrapped/Pre-seed/Series A/B/C).

- Recognition: Must be recognized by DPIIT under the Startup India initiative.

- Age and Turnover: Startups should be less than 10 years old as of 1 January 2027 and have a turnover of less than INR 100 crore.

- Theme Alignment: Solutions should align with the energy value chain themes outlined in the challenge.

Eligible Activities or Priority Areas - Hydrocarbon value chain (oil & gas, coal gasification) - Alternative fuels (biofuels, green hydrogen) - Low carbon technologies (CCUS, e-mobility) - Renewable energy (solar, wind, geothermal) - Functional areas like AI, ML, energy efficiency, and more. Why This Opportunity Matters Avinya’27 plays a crucial role in advancing India’s energy sector by fostering innovation and sustainability. It offers startups the chance to gain visibility, receive mentorship, and access funding, which can accelerate the development of cutting-edge technologies and solutions. How to Apply

- Choose a Platform: Submit applications through Innovate India or Startup India.

- Register and Submit: Complete registration and submit your application on one platform only.

- Deadline: Ensure submission by 15 October 2026, 11:59 PM IST.

Application Tips or Common Mistakes

- Complete Applications: Ensure all sections are filled out to avoid disqualification.

- Platform Consistency: Submit through only one platform to prevent issues with multiple entries.

Frequently Asked Questions Can I apply with a concept note? Yes, applications at the concept note stage are welcome. Who do I contact for questions? For queries, email [contact details removed]. Can I edit or withdraw an incomplete application? Contact the organizers for guidance if an application is incomplete. What if my startup is older than 10 years? Startups must be less than 10 years old to qualify. What are the benefits beyond cash prizes? Winning startups get exhibition space, mentorship, and investor access. Next Steps Interested applicants should review the official guidelines and submit their applications promptly. For detailed information, consult the Innovate India or Startup India portals.