Assam to Launch North-East SEVA FIRST Innovation Challenge 2026

Guwahati: Assam is set to launch the North-East SEVA FIRST Innovation Challenge 2026 under the Seva Sankalp Abhiyaan, inviting startups, innovators, researchers, professionals and student teams from across India to develop solutions for real-world challenges. The programme will feature 50 challenges from government and industry, with grants of up to ₹10 lakh for idea-stage startups and up to ₹40 lakh for deep-tech MVPs.

The challenge will have Open Challenges and Open Innovation streams, with 150 startups expected to reach the Grand Finale in Guwahati. Applicants must be at least 18 years old, with applications closing on November 10, 2026. The initiative is being implemented by the Assam Innovation and Startup Foundation (AISF) with support from leading academic institutions.