RT team
The 6th Youth Co:Lab National Innovation Dialogue has concluded, recognizing six innovative start-ups for their groundbreaking solutions aimed at transforming India’s socio-economic landscape. These winners have introduced advancements in AgriTech for small-scale farmers, unique solutions for tribal communities, and cutting-edge assistive technologies.
Youth Co:Lab, initiated in 2017 by the United Nations Development Programme (UNDP) and Citi Foundation, is designed to foster a collaborative environment across the Asia-Pacific to empower young entrepreneurs to drive social innovation and contribute to the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs). Launched in India in 2019 through a partnership with Atal Innovation Mission, NITI Aayog, Youth Co:Lab has quickly become a cornerstone for nurturing young talent.
The 2023 – 2024 dialogue attracted 209 applications nationwide, with 36 start-ups receiving expert mentoring through the Youth Co:Lab Springboard Programme. In April 2024, these start-ups presented their ideas to a panel of judges, with the top six receiving up to $3,000 in seed funding to expand their initiatives. Notable winners include Deepak Rajmohan, Riksrang Momin, and Richa Shukla, among others.
Ashu Khullar, CEO of Citi India, praised the winners and highlighted Youth Co:Lab’s role in leveraging India’s vibrant entrepreneurial spirit to approach the SDGs. Isabelle Tschan, Deputy Resident Representative of UNDP India, emphasized the impactful solutions tailored for India’s underrepresented groups, showcasing the potential of India’s youth in fostering inclusive growth and innovation.
Since its inception, Youth Co:Lab has supported over 250 youth-led projects in India, spanning climate action to mental health, proving to be a vital platform for young visionaries shaping a sustainable future.
Source: UNDP
