Nine startups in Nagaland have secured a total of Rs.1 crore in seed funding under the Startup India Seed Fund Scheme (SISFS), facilitated through the YouthNet Incubation Centre (YIC). The announcement was made in Dimapur on 30 September, marking a significant step in the region’s entrepreneurial ecosystem.
The funding was awarded to companies selected in Series 4 of the YIC‑SISFS programme, covering sectors such as green hydrogen, agriculture, biotechnology, renewable energy, artificial intelligence and other technology‑driven ventures. The nine recipients are Toshifez Innovations Private Limited, Syncnl Networks Private Limited, Zodmo Technologies Private Limited, Greenovex Private Limited, October Pumpkin‑Shi Private Limited, A&D Renewables Energy Private Limited, Tuensang Hills Agro Private Limited, Green Buds Private Limited and Khamlou India Private Limited.
During the ceremony, Hekani Jakhalu, advisor to the Department of Industries & Commerce, urged the entrepreneurs to approach startup building with patience and perseverance, emphasizing the role of innovation in economic development and the vision of Viksit Bharat. Nuneseno Chase, director and chief functionary of YouthNet, highlighted the potential of home‑grown entrepreneurship in Nagaland and its contribution to a self‑reliant economy. Associate Director Neikepekho Shosahie explained that SISFS links financial support with measurable progress, releasing funds in tranches tied to milestones, with the possibility of termination for non‑performance. Mentor Yanpvuo Kikon advised the founders to remain focused, realistic, test ideas quickly, learn from market responses and refine or pivot models as needed.
SISFS provides early‑stage financial support for proof of concept, prototype development, product trials, market entry and commercialization, and may be disbursed through debt or convertible instruments. The scheme aims to build capacity and credibility so that startups can attract angel and venture capital investment or secure institutional loans. It is implemented by the Department for Promotion of Industry and Internal Trade through approved incubators to bridge the funding gap faced by early‑stage companies.
