Bengaluru, Karnataka, India | 10th September 2025: India’s startup ecosystem just gained a powerful accelerator with the launch of Campus Tank, a nationwide program by Apna.co in partnership with Chandigarh University and Venture Catalysts. Designed exclusively for founders under 30, the initiative offers a $6 million funding pool, structured mentorship, incubation, and investor access to turn student-led ideas into scalable ventures.
Since registrations opened, over 20,000 aspiring entrepreneurs have applied. More than 50% of submissions are in AI, Data & Future Tech (23%), Climate & Clean Energy (15%), and Healthcare & Wellness (15%), showcasing India’s youth-driven focus on deep-tech and impact innovation.
City Showcases Spark Momentum
Campus Tank kicked off with two vibrant editions this month:
- Punjab Edition (1st September 2025): Inaugurated by Shri Manohar Lal Khattar (Union Minister of Housing and Urban Affairs) at Chandigarh University. A panel on “Campus to Capital: Empowering Young Innovators” featured leaders from CII, SACC India, JustHerbs, and Fluid Ventures.
- Delhi Edition (6th September 2025): Graced by Dr. Jitendra Singh (Minister of State for Personnel, Public Grievances and Pensions), along with senior leaders from Apna.co, Venture Catalysts, and AICTE.
Both events drew strong participation from government leaders, investors, and students, setting the stage for the National Demo Day later this year, where shortlisted startups will pitch to industry leaders and investors.
Leaders on the Launch
- Nirmit Parikh, Founder & CEO, Apna.co:
“India needs a million entrepreneurs to transform its future. With Campus Tank, we are not just funding startups, but building a movement that creates jobs, sustainable companies, and accelerates India’s growth story.” - Vansh Oberoi, Managing Partner – VC Grid & CIO, Venture Catalysts:
“Campus Tank democratizes access to capital and mentorship. Our $6M pool ensures young founders get the networks and backing they need to scale.” - Satnam Singh Sandhu, Chancellor, Chandigarh University:
“This initiative aligns with Startup India’s mission by empowering youth to innovate, patent, and build businesses that strengthen India’s economy.”
Why Campus Tank Matters
Apna.co brings unmatched reach as India’s largest early talent hiring platform with 6 crore job seekers and 7 lakh+ employers. Chandigarh University contributes a robust innovation ecosystem, having filed 1,126 patents and facilitated ₹5 crore in startup funding in 2023–24. Venture Catalysts adds its global network, recognized as one of the world’s most active early-stage investors.
With India’s 176,000+ startups in 2025 (up from 400 in 2014), Campus Tank emerges as the nation’s largest launchpad for under-30 founders, fueling the next generation of AI, climate-tech, and healthcare disruptors.
Registrations Open
Campus Tank is inviting founders under 30 to apply. Shortlisted ventures will receive:
- Structured incubation & mentorship
- Access to a $6M funding pool
- Investor & industry showcase at Demo Day
- Campus Tank Spotlight Awards recognition
Applications are live now, and the journey will culminate with Demo Day later this year.
