Chandigarh admn, PU launch six-month programme for aspiring entrepreneurs

“With a strong focus on fintech and service-based start-ups, the programme also encourages ventures based on patented technologies from premier institutes (IITs, NITs, and universities), while addressing critical industry pain points identified through direct engagement with businesses. Notably, DST-TEC has already engaged with over 100 industries and documented more than 150 real-world challenges, providing participants with innovation-driven opportunities,” the Chandigarh Administration said in a statement.

Participants will be mentored by CEOs, start-up founders, investors, and distinguished alumni from IITs, IIMs, and other leading institutions — ensuring a balance of theory and hands-on application.

The programme will culminate with an investors’ meet on March 12, 2026, where shortlisted start-ups will pitch their ventures for potential funding in exchange for equity. Graduates will also receive a certificate from DST-TEC, Panjab University, along with six months of free post-programme support.

Speaking about the initiative, Diprava Lakra, secretary (finance), Chandigarh Administration, said that the administration is “keen to evolve the city into a fountainhead of start-ups. Through CYS, we expect the creation of promising ventures, and we will work to facilitate attractive equity-based funding opportunities for them”.

What the programme covers

Delivered in a hybrid mode, the curriculum includes 12 structured sessions (2 hours each) and nine practical assignments, covering:

•Start-up formation, government schemes, and registration processes

•Intellectual property rights (IPR) and technology readiness levels (TRLs)

•Regulatory landscape in fintech and services (RBI, SEBI, data protection, compliance)

•Leveraging India’s digital infrastructure (UPI, ONDC, Aadhaar)

•Market research, investment planning, financial projections, and pitch deck preparation