New Delhi, Feb 13 (.) Industry body FICCI and Mercedes-Benz India have positioned their Bharat Innovation & Business Ideas Challenge as a catalyst for India’s next wave of deep-tech and sustainable entrepreneurship, as the 2026 edition concluded with six start-ups emerging as winners.
Launched in December 2025, the national initiative was designed to identify and mentor high-potential startups across manufacturing, sustainability, decarbonisation, electric mobility and education. From 32 shortlisted finalists, the jury selected CarbonM Fuelmax Technology Private Limited, Exobot, AmpCycle, Dexsent Robotics Private Limited, CALLX RINGERS PRIVATE LIMITED and X Able as winners.
Addressing the award ceremony here, Vyankatesh Kulkarni, Executive Director and Head of Operations at Mercedes-Benz India, said innovation in India has evolved into a national strength driven by curiosity, courage and problem-solving.
He noted that the programme reflects the company’s commitment to nurturing responsible entrepreneurship and collaborating with emerging innovators to shape the future of mobility and sustainable industry.
Kulkarni said the shortlisted startups demonstrated not only technological depth but also a strong sense of purpose in addressing real-world challenges. Their solutions, he added, have the potential to transform industries and enhance India’s global competitiveness in advanced technologies.
Emphasising the role of industry platforms, FICCI said the initiative was conceptualised to bridge the gap between startups, investors, corporates and policymakers. By providing visibility, mentorship and financial incentives, the programme aims to create scalable business models aligned with India’s long-term development priorities.
The event also saw the announcement of a Rs 10,000 crore Fund of Funds for Startups by the government, a move welcomed by industry leaders as a significant boost to capital access for emerging ventures. Representatives from FICCI and Mercedes-Benz India said such policy support, combined with structured corporate engagement, can accelerate the growth of innovation-led enterprises.
The ceremony brought together policymakers, industry leaders, investors and entrepreneurs, reinforcing the importance of sustained public-private collaboration in driving India’s innovation journey and advancing the vision of Viksit Bharat @2047.
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