Punjab on path to becoming startup hub of India, says CM Mann; distributes seed grants worth ₹1.07 crore

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Punjab CM Bhagwant Mann during the Startup Punjab Seed Distribution function. Photo credit: Punjab govt.

Punjab Chief Minister Bhagwant Singh Mann on Tuesday (June 9, 2026) distributed seed grants worth ₹1.07 crore to 31 startups and their founders, asserting that State’s next generation of successful entrepreneurs should also build their companies here, creating jobs and wealth within Punjab.

Describing startups as a key pillar of Punjab’s future economic growth, Mr. Mann said the Punjab Government is committed to ensuring that no promising idea is abandoned due to lack of financial support.

The Chief Minister noted that under the Punjab Startup & Industrial Policy 2026, Seed Grant assistance has been enhanced from ₹3 lakh to ₹5 lakh, with seven startups receiving grants of ₹5 lakh each and 24 startups receiving ₹3 lakh each. He expressed confidence that these ventures would create thousands of employment opportunities and help reduce the need for youth to move abroad in search of jobs.

Emphasising that innovation has become a defining feature of governance in Punjab, CM Bhagwant Singh Mann said initiatives such as free electricity, daytime power supply to farmers and several other reforms have demonstrated how new ideas can deliver direct benefits to people. He said that with sustained support for entrepreneurship, innovation and enterprise, Punjab is firmly on the path to becoming the startup hub of India.

Addressing the gathering during the Startup Punjab Seed Distribution function, CM Mann said, “Today is a historic day for Punjab’s industry, especially for our young entrepreneurs who are beginning their business journey with innovative ideas and a spirit of innovation. Seed Grants worth ₹1.07 crore are being distributed to 31 startups. Seven startups are receiving grants of ₹5 lakh each, while 24 startups are receiving grants of ₹3 lakh each. These young entrepreneurs are turning their dreams into reality through innovative ideas and they truly deserve this support.”