Chandigarh Administration, Panjab University launch ‘Create Your Startup’ initiative

The UT Administration, in collaboration with the DST-Technology Enabling Centre, Panjab University (PU), has launched a flagship entrepreneurial initiative “Create Your Startup (CYS)” — a six-month programme designed to nurture aspiring entrepreneurs into future-ready startup founders.

Open to students, faculty, researchers and professionals, the programme will run from October 1 to February 28, 2026. The last date for registration is September 30.

With a strong focus on Fintech and service-based startups, 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.

Delivered in a hybrid mode, the curriculum includes 12 structured sessions (two hours each) and nine practical assignments. Participants will be mentored by CEOs, startup 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 startups will pitch their ventures to investors 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, UT, said, “ The Chandigarh Administration is keen to evolve the city into a fountainhead of startups. Through CYS, we expect the creation of promising ventures and we will work to facilitate attractive equity-based funding opportunities for them.”

Prof Manu Sharma, Honorary Director, CIIPP, Coordinator DST-TEC, PU, and coordinator of the CYS programme, said, “CYS is an excellent opportunity to create deep-tech startups around patented technologies of IITs, NITs and universities. We are also creating an Angel Network of Panjab University, primarily consisting of its alumni, to provide budding entrepreneurs access to equity funding at excellent terms.”

Dr Sadaf Jan, Manager, DST-TEC, PU, and co-coordinator of the CYS programme, added, “CYS is designed to handhold aspiring entrepreneurs through every stage of their journey—from ideation to investor connect.” By combining structured training, industry engagement, and expert mentoring, we aim to empower participants to convert their ideas into scalable ventures and strengthen Chandigarh's startup ecosystem."