Chandigarh: In a major push to strengthen entrepreneurship and innovation in the state, Punjab Chief Minister Bhagwant Mann has distributed seed grants worth ₹1.07 crore to 31 startups under the state’s startup promotion initiative. The government also increased financial assistance under the Punjab Startup and Industry Policy 2026, aiming to build a strong startup ecosystem and encourage youth to become job creators instead of job seekers.
The initiative is part of the state’s broader strategy to reduce unemployment and curb youth migration by promoting innovation-led economic growth.
CM Bhagwant Mann Calls Youth “Job Creators, Not Job Seekers”
Addressing the event, CM Bhagwant Mann said that Punjab’s youth should move beyond job-seeking mindset and focus on creating employment opportunities through entrepreneurship.
He emphasized that:
- Punjab has strong talent and potential
- Only initial support is needed for startups to succeed
- Startup culture will reduce brain drain and migration
- New enterprises will generate large-scale employment
The Chief Minister said Punjab is rapidly emerging as a preferred startup destination in India.
₹1.07 Crore Seed Funding Distributed to 31 Startups
Under the scheme, financial assistance was provided as follows:
- 7 startups received ₹5 lakh each
- 24 startups received ₹3 lakh each
- Total funding: ₹1.07 crore
CM Mann stated that the seed grant aims to reduce early-stage financial pressure on entrepreneurs and help convert ideas into successful businesses.
He added that these startups are expected to generate thousands of future job opportunities in the state.
Punjab Startup and Industry Policy 2026 Revised
The Chief Minister announced a key policy update under the Punjab Startup and Industry Policy 2026, increasing seed grant support:
- Earlier grant: ₹3 lakh
- Revised grant: ₹5 lakh
He said this increase reflects the government’s commitment to supporting innovation and ensuring that no promising idea fails due to lack of funding.
Focus on Innovation, Agriculture and Emerging Technologies
CM Mann highlighted that Punjab’s future growth will be driven by:
- Agri-tech and high-value agriculture
- Food processing industries
- Artificial intelligence and technology startups
- Manufacturing and textile sectors
- Cold chain and agri-logistics
He stressed that universities and colleges should become innovation hubs where ideas are transformed into startups and enterprises.
Government Committed to Reducing Youth Migration
The Chief Minister said one of the key goals of the startup policy is to reduce the trend of youth moving abroad for employment.
He stated that a strong startup ecosystem in Punjab will:
- Create local employment opportunities
- Encourage global-level businesses within the state
- Strengthen the state economy
- Build self-reliance among youth
Punjab Positioned as Emerging Startup Hub
CM Mann said Punjab is witnessing a new wave of innovation-driven development, making it one of India’s emerging startup hubs. He cited successful global companies founded by Punjabis as inspiration for young entrepreneurs.
He also encouraged startups to aim for global competitiveness and establish businesses within Punjab itself.
Government Support for Entrepreneurs
The Chief Minister assured full government support to startups, stating:
- Financial assistance will continue
- Policy support will be strengthened
- Administrative hurdles will be removed
- Mentorship and ecosystem support will be expanded
He emphasized that even the best ideas need early-stage support to grow into successful enterprises.
Vision for a Self-Reliant and Innovative Punjab
CM Mann reiterated that innovation, entrepreneurship, and technology are the key drivers of economic growth. He said the government aims to build a:
- Prosperous Punjab
- Innovation-driven Punjab
- Globally competitive Punjab
He added that successful startups will not only uplift individuals but also contribute to the state’s economic transformation.
Startup Push to Shape Punjab’s Economic Future
With increased seed funding, revised startup policies, and strong government backing, Punjab is positioning itself as a major startup hub in India. The initiative is expected to empower young entrepreneurs, create jobs, and strengthen the state’s innovation ecosystem.
About Punjab Startup Initiative
The Punjab Startup Initiative is a state government programme aimed at promoting entrepreneurship, supporting early-stage startups with seed funding, and building a strong innovation ecosystem across sectors like technology, agriculture, and manufacturing.
