The Grand Challenge 2025, a national platform for student entrepreneurship in India, has concluded its sixth edition with Novyte being named the Best Student Startup of 2025. Novyte, founded by students from the Institute of Chemical Technology, has developed a Gen AI-powered materials discovery platform that enables the rapid identification of manufacturable and stable materials for various applications. The platform was recognized for its innovative solution and potential to drive significant impact in the industry.
The Grand Challenge 2025 received nearly 1,500 applications from campuses across India and abroad, and 13 exceptional student-led startups were selected to present at the Grand Finale. The finalists represented a wide range of sectors, including AI, deeptech, climate, healthcare, consumer, mobility, and industrial innovation. The top three winners were Novyte, Cosma, and Rhygen, which developed innovative solutions in materials discovery, fertility care, and hybrid powertrains, respectively.
The Grand Challenge 2025 was powered by 360 ONE and Base, and was supported by AWS, IDFC FIRST Bank, and Campus Fund. The platform provides access to capital, cloud infrastructure, mentorship, and long-term institutional backing to student founders. The event was attended by a distinguished panel of leaders from business, finance, technology, and entrepreneurship, who evaluated the startups and provided feedback.
The Grand Challenge 2025 reflects a clear shift in India’s startup ecosystem towards deep, defensible innovation led by student founders. The platform has provided a launchpad for student entrepreneurs to showcase their innovative ideas and solutions, and has helped to identify and support the next generation of Indian entrepreneurs. The winners of the Grand Challenge 2025 will receive support and resources to help them scale their startups and drive impact in their respective industries.
The Grand Challenge 2025 has demonstrated the potential of student entrepreneurship in India and has highlighted the need for continued support and resources to help student founders drive innovation and growth. The event has also shown that the next generation of Indian entrepreneurs is ready to lead on the global stage and make a significant impact in the startup ecosystem. With the support of organizations like AWS, IDFC FIRST Bank, 360 ONE, and Base, the Grand Challenge 2025 has provided a platform for student entrepreneurs to showcase their innovative ideas and solutions, and has helped to drive the growth of the startup ecosystem in India.