Greenovation Circularity Challenge — Up to ₹20L for Waste Startups — Frequently Asked Questions
Answers to the questions founders most often ask about Greenovation Circularity Challenge — Up to ₹20L for Waste Startups — who qualifies, the funding amount, required documents and how the application works.
Frequently asked questions
How much funding does the Greenovation Circularity Challenge offer?
There is a total prize pool of ₹20 lakh, and an individual company is eligible for up to ₹20 lakh. The awards are non-dilutive, so the prize money does not come at the cost of equity in your venture.
Does the challenge take equity in my company?
No. The prizes themselves are non-dilutive — you receive the cash without giving up any stake. Separately, high-potential participants may be considered for the EarthON Gurukul acceleration programme, which offers potential equity or debt investment of up to ₹4 crore through the EarthON Blended Finance Platform and the GreenovatiON Fund.
Who is eligible to apply?
Startups and social enterprises working on plastics, textiles or food circularity. Your solution can be at prototype, pilot-tested or market-ready stage, your founders need to be committed full-time, your company must be incorporated and registered within the last 10 years, and the solution must be applicable to the Indian context.
Do I need prior funding or revenue to be eligible?
No. The challenge is open to companies whether they have raised nothing yet, are currently raising, or already have existing revenue. Ventures at every stage from prototype to market-ready are welcome.
What kinds of innovations is the programme looking for?
Affordable, practical and scalable solutions that turn plastic, textile and food waste into value. Specific areas of interest include waste collection and segregation, advanced recycling technologies, circular packaging, textile and food waste management, and the valorisation of by-products.
Is there a deadline to apply?
No specific deadline has been announced. Applications are accepted on a rolling basis, so it is worth submitting as soon as your materials are ready.
How are winners selected?
The Greenovation Hub team runs an initial screening for eligibility and alignment with the focus areas. Shortlisted ventures may then have detailed discussions or present to a selection committee with experts from Greenovation Hub, EarthON Foundation and industry partners. Final picks to the residential bootcamp and the prizes are based on the solution's potential impact, scalability, team strength and relevance to India.
What support do I get beyond the prize money?
Participants receive mentorship, attend a 2-day residential bootcamp covering technical, operational and business-model support, and get significant visibility and networking opportunities with investors, industry leaders and policy stakeholders. Incubation support is also part of the package.
How do I apply?
Applications go through the online form on the F6S platform at https://www.f6s.com/greenovation-circularity-challenge/apply, where you share details about your startup, solution, team and expected impact.
What happens after the bootcamp?
Winners receive their non-dilutive cash prizes, and high-potential participants are considered for the EarthON Gurukul acceleration programme, which offers further mentorship, growth support and possible follow-on investment of up to ₹4 crore through the EarthON Blended Finance Platform and the GreenovatiON Fund.
Is DPIIT recognition required for Greenovation Circularity Challenge — Up to ₹20L for Waste Startups?
No. DPIIT (Startup India) recognition is not listed as a mandatory requirement for Greenovation Circularity Challenge — Up to ₹20L for Waste Startups, though having it can strengthen your application and unlock other benefits.
Who offers Greenovation Circularity Challenge — Up to ₹20L for Waste Startups?
Greenovation Circularity Challenge — Up to ₹20L for Waste Startups is offered by Greenovation Hub. It is provided as non-dilutive funding.
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