Minimum 3 characters require

Popular Searches

About Future Founders Challenge

The Future Founders Challenge 2026 is a national-level entrepreneurship competition by UPES in collaboration with the School of Business and Runway Incubator. Designed for students from Classes 9 to 12, this challenge empowers students to develop creative solutions for real-world problems and present their ideas before entering college unlocking their entrepreneurial journey. 

Aligned with UPES's vision as the University of Tomorrow, the Challenge equips students to become future-ready, impact-oriented leaders through immersive learning, industry engagement, and real-world innovation exposure. It aligns with initiatives like Startup India, NEP 2020, and Atal Innovation Mission, highlighting the importance of preparing students to succeed in an evolving, solutions-focused world.

Where Young Minds Meet Big Dreams

Real-World Problem Solving

Students will identify the challenges around them and create innovative solutions that matter.

Startup Journey Experience

Learn how startups work through hands-on workshops and mentorship.

National Recognition

Compete with the best young minds across India and gain recognition.

21st Century Skills

Build critical thinking and communication skills for the future.

Expert Mentorship

Get guidance from successful entrepreneurs, industry leaders, and business experts throughout your journey.

Win Big

Compete for cash prizes, scholarships, incubation opportunities, and the chance to launch your startup!

Why Participate?

For Students

  • Win cash prizes and get national recognition
  • Learn through hands-on startup workshops
  • Pitch ideas to industry leaders and esteemed jury
  • Join a network of young changemakers
  • Cultivate entrepreneurial mindset and explore incubation support
  • Explore emerging learning pathways at UPES

For Schools

  • Elevate school’s brand through a prestigious platform
  • Gain national recognition for innovation excellence
  • Offer students hands-on entrepreneurial experience
  • Strengthen your school’s incubation ecosystem with expert guidance
  • Promote modern, project-based interdisciplinary learning
  • Explore strategic partnerships and opportunities with UPES

Eligibility

👩🏼‍🎓Students from classes 9–12

👥Teams (Min 2- Max 3 members)

👩🏼‍🎓Each student can be part of only one team

💼No prior startup experience needed

Rules and Regulations

Read More

Note: Kindly download the Rules and Regulations for your reference and better understanding.

Competition Flow

Webinar Event

Rewards & Recognition

Winner

1 Lakh INR

Runner-up

50 K INR

North Zone

K INR

Winner

K INR

Runner-up

South Zone

K INR

Winner

K INR

Runner-up

East Zone

K INR

Winner

K INR

Runner-up

West Zone

K INR

Winner

K INR

Runner-up

Show All

FAQs

Is there a fee to participate?

[Insert fee details - e.g. program fee, what it covers, and early-bird concession terms.]

Who covers travel and accommodation for the finale?

[Insert travel/accommodation policy for shortlisted teams and accompanying faculty.]

How many teams can one school nominate?

[Insert answer - e.g. multiple teams allowed, per the eligibility section.]

Is prior startup or business experience required?

No prior experience is needed. The workshops are designed to take students from idea to pitch, regardless of starting point.

What happens after a school registers?

Shortlisted teams go through virtual workshops, followed by zonal screening, before the top teams compete at the national finale hosted at UPES. Full flow is under "Competition Flow" above.

Is the event supervised and safe for students?

[Insert details on chaperoning, faculty accompaniment, and on-campus safety arrangements for the finale.]

Who do we contact for more information?

Reach out to Swarleen Kaur (+91-7060005440), Sumit Wason (+91-9988885869), or email futurefounders@ddn.upes.ac.in see Contacts below.
 

Load More

Contacts

📧 futurefounders@ddn.upes.ac.in