IIM Calcutta Innovation Park Launches New Incubation Program for Northeast Startups

Imphal, India Jul 13, 2026 ALN: Kolkata: The IIM Calcutta Innovation Park (IIMCIP) has launched the second cohort of its Prakriti Incubation Launchpad, a year-long incubation programme aimed at supporting early-stage startups developing sustainable and circular economy solutions across Northeast India.

This initiative is particularly significant given the unique challenges faced by the Northeast region of India. With a diverse ecological landscape and rich cultural heritage, the Northeast is grappling with environmental issues exacerbated by rapid urbanisation, changing consumption patterns, and inadequate waste management infrastructure. The Prakriti Incubation Launchpad seeks to address these challenges by fostering innovation in sustainability and circular economy practices, which are crucial for the region's economic and environmental resilience.

Implemented in partnership with the Pernod Ricard India Foundation (PRIF), the 12-month programme is open to early-stage, early-revenue, and minimum viable product (MVP)-stage startups. These startups are expected to work in various sectors including green manufacturing, waste management and recycling, cleantech, environmentally friendly innovations, and sustainable indigenous products. This broad scope allows for a diverse range of solutions to emerge, addressing both local and global sustainability challenges.

Applications for the programme are open until July 31, with the selected startups expected to begin incubation and mentoring support in August. The programme will conclude with a final summit in March 2027, where participants will showcase their progress and innovations. This timeline is designed to provide startups with ample time to develop their business models, refine their products, and establish market presence.

The first cohort of the Prakriti Incubation Launchpad was met with considerable enthusiasm, receiving 36 applications from which 12 startups were selected through a rigorous jury-led process. The six best-performing ventures from this cohort collectively received reward grants worth ₹70 lakh, which not only provided financial support but also validation of their business ideas. This initial success underscores the potential of the region’s entrepreneurs and the importance of continued support through structured programmes.

Under the second cohort, a similar structure will be followed, with 12 startups receiving comprehensive incubation support. This support includes one-on-one mentoring, business development assistance, capacity-building workshops, investor pitching guidance, and access to market linkages and ecosystem partners. Such resources are invaluable for early-stage startups, which often face significant hurdles in accessing funding, expertise, and networks needed for growth.

The programme aims to nurture ventures capable of generating social, economic, and environmental impact while promoting sustainable entrepreneurship in the Northeast. This focus on sustainability is critical, as the region is endowed with rich biodiversity and indigenous knowledge, which can serve as a foundation for innovative solutions. By leveraging these strengths, the programme aspires to create scalable, market-ready solutions that not only benefit local communities but also contribute to global sustainability goals.

Speaking on the launch, Ajay Jain, Chairman of the IIM Calcutta Innovation Park Board, emphasized the organization's commitment to bridging gaps that limit the region’s entrepreneurial potential. He stated, "With more than a decade of experience and knowledge of the North East startup ecosystem, it is our responsibility as a leading national incubator to bridge the gaps that limit the untapped entrepreneurial spirit and potential existing in this region. With its rich indigenous knowledge, biodiversity, and traditions serving as a natural foundation for sustainability-led innovation, we are determined to deliver the benefits of Prakriti Incubation Launchpad 2.0 in nurturing a new generation of enterprises that harness the unique regional strengths to build scalable, market-ready solutions." This statement reflects a broader commitment to fostering an inclusive entrepreneurial ecosystem that empowers local innovators and supports sustainable development.

The programme is open to Indian citizens from the eight Northeastern states whose startups are working in the sustainability and circular economy sectors. This inclusivity is vital, as it encourages a diverse range of perspectives and solutions, which are essential for addressing complex environmental issues. Eligible ventures should be at the MVP, early-stage, or early-revenue stage and focus on areas such as waste-to-value solutions, recycling, green manufacturing, cleantech, environmentally friendly innovations, and sustainable indigenous products. This specific focus ensures that the programme targets sectors with high potential for impact and growth.

Over the years, IIMCIP has supported thousands of entrepreneurs through its incubation and acceleration programmes, helping startups across multiple sectors with mentoring, funding opportunities, market access, and ecosystem partnerships. The experience gained from previous cohorts has informed the design of the current programme, ensuring that it meets the specific needs of startups in the Northeast. By providing structured support and resources, IIMCIP aims to create a thriving startup ecosystem that not only drives economic development but also promotes sustainable practices.

As the deadline for applications approaches on July 31, interested startups are encouraged to submit their applications. The selection process will be competitive, reflecting the growing interest in entrepreneurship and innovation within the region. By participating in the Prakriti Incubation Launchpad, startups will not only gain access to valuable resources and mentorship but also become part of a larger movement towards sustainability and circular economy practices in Northeast India.

In conclusion, the launch of the second cohort of the Prakriti Incubation Launchpad represents a significant step towards empowering entrepreneurs in Northeast India. By focusing on sustainable solutions and providing comprehensive support to startups, IIMCIP and PRIF are contributing to the region's economic resilience and environmental sustainability. As the programme unfolds, it will be closely watched as a model for how targeted incubation efforts can drive innovation and create lasting positive change in local communities.