Tata Social Enterprise Challenge
Tata Group and IIM Calcutta
An annual contest for social enterprises in India, run by the Tata Group and IIM Calcutta. Cash rewards of up to ₹10 lakh go to the winner and two runners-up, and shortlisted teams get mentoring. Finalists can also pitch for up to ₹1 crore in seed funding, subject to investment criteria and due diligence.
What you can get
Cash reward up to ₹10 lakh for the winner and two runners-up. Finalists can pitch for up to ₹1 crore in seed funding.
Do you repay it?
No
Type
Prize
Where
Open to Indian startups
Current status
The 14th edition opened on 10 July 2026, and the official site lists 10 September 2026 as the closing date, now passed. The next edition's dates are not posted.
Who can apply
- An early-stage venture, or an idea with a proof of concept, and a sustainable business model that creates social impact.
- Ventures must be no more than five years old.
- For-profit, not-for-profit and hybrid models are all accepted.
- A team is represented by at most two members.
- Last year's semifinalists are not eligible.
- International entries cannot pitch for seed funding and incubation.
How to apply
- 1Register through the portal linked from tatasechallenge.org when an edition opens.
- 2Submit an impact proposal.
- 3Shortlisted teams join a mentoring programme that includes time at IIM Calcutta.
The catch
The ₹1 crore is seed funding subject to investment criteria, not prize money, and its terms are not stated. Only the cash reward is non-dilutive here, and TSEC says it never asks for payment.
We read this on the official page on 4 November 2026. Rules and dates change, so confirm there before you apply. Founders Wing is not connected to this scheme, does not help with applications and never charges for access to it.