Adani Group Chairman Unveils National Program to Discover and Support Innovators
Gautam Adani, Chairman of the Adani Group, has launched the Vande Bharatam initiative, a national effort to identify and nurture entrepreneurs, innovators, and problem-solvers from all corners of India. The program, announced on Adani‘s 64th birthday (June 25, 2026), aims to democratize access to mentorship, investor connections, and growth opportunities.
“When I began my journey, I had nothing. Everything I am and everything I have achieved was given to me by the soil of Bharat. There is no shortage of talent in our nation, but opportunity has not always reached every corner of the country,” Adani said in a statement.
What is the Vande Bharatam Initiative?
The initiative is open to anyone with an idea, innovation, or entrepreneurial ambition—regardless of age, profession, education, or stage of development. Participants can apply with a concept, prototype, early-stage venture, or even an established business. A registered startup is not required.
“India has built one of the world‘s largest startup ecosystems, yet most founders still emerge from a handful of cities. Vande Bharatam is our effort to discover the innovators, problem-solvers, and entrepreneurs whose ideas deserve recognition, support, and a larger platform,” Adani noted.
How Will It Support Entrepreneurs?
The program will span all 36 states and union territories, covering over 800 districts and multiple languages. Applications opened on June 24 at vandebharatam.org. A structured evaluation process will assess innovation, entrepreneurial potential, impact, and scalability. Detailed criteria, jury composition, and selection stages will be announced later.
Entries are invited from sectors including technology, manufacturing, sustainability, agriculture, traditional crafts, and community-led solutions. Dedicated pathways will encourage participation from women entrepreneurs, tribal entrepreneurs, rural innovators, Divyang (differently-abled) entrepreneurs, and community-based innovators.
From Regional Evaluation to Grand Finale
After state and regional evaluations, 75 finalists will be invited to Ahmedabad for an intensive program featuring mentorship, industry interactions, and engagement with investors and business leaders. The Grand Finale is scheduled around India‘s Independence Day and will mark the start of an ongoing engagement platform connecting participants with mentors, investors, industry leaders, and fellow innovators.
“If I can do it, any Indian can do it. All they need is an opportunity and a stage,” Gautam Adani said.
What This Means for the Startup Ecosystem
The Vande Bharatam program promises to open fresh avenues for emerging entrepreneurs by expanding access to mentorship, networks, and capital. As India’s startup ecosystem continues to grow, such initiatives can provide a much-needed boost for innovation and confidence.