Competition & Award
National Entrepreneurship Challenge 2026
Apply by Jul 31, 2026
Application Closed
About
The National Entrepreneurship Challenge (NEC) is a 5-6 month competition organized by E-Cell IIT Bombay, aimed at fostering student entrepreneurship across India, offering mentorship, networking opportunities, and cash prizes for participating teams.
Benefits
- 💰Cash Prizes — Winners will receive cash prizes worth INR 7 Lakhs
- 📜Certification — Certification from Asia's Largest Student-run Entrepreneurship Cell
- 🤝Mentorship — Receive mentorship from E-Cell, IIT Bombay
- 🌐Networking — Build your network of startups, investors, and enthusiasts
- 🎟️ Free Passes — Get free passes for the Entrepreneurship Summit (E-Summit'26)
Eligibility Criteria
- Teams must be from colleges in India
- Teams can register in Basic or Advanced Track based on prior participation
- Teams must consist of 5 or more members
- New teams without an existing E-Cell are encouraged to register in the Basic Track
Participation Commitments
- ⏳ Program Duration — The challenge lasts 5-6 months
- 📅 Task Submission — Teams must submit tasks by October 18, 2026
- 🏆 Mandatory Participation — Top 10 teams from previous years must participate in the Advanced Track
- 📋 Early Bird Bonus — Registering before the deadline provides extra points
Target Region
India
Target Sector
Student entrepreneurship and innovation
E-Cell IIT Bombay