The INAE Young Innovator & Entrepreneur Award is a prestigious national recognition instituted by the Indian National Academy of Engineering (INAE). It is designed to identify and celebrate young engineers who have successfully bridged the gap between innovative engineering concepts and commercial startup enterprises.
About the INAE Young Innovator & Entrepreneur Award
The INAE Young Innovator & Entrepreneur Award is given by the Indian National Academy of Engineering. This award aims to encourage a culture of innovation and entrepreneurship among young engineers in India. It specifically targets those who have not only developed a novel technological idea but have also successfully translated that idea into a viable and impactful startup venture. Selected students will receive ₹ 1 lakh and a citation for study . Application is open to applicants till 10th April 2026.
Objective of INAE Young Innovator & Entrepreneur Award
The Scholarship aims of to encourage and recognise innovation and entrepreneurship among young engineers in India.
Key Highlights of INAE Young Innovator & Entrepreneur Award
| Highlights | Details |
| Scholarship | INAE Young Innovator & Entrepreneur Award |
| Funded by | Indian National Academy of Engineering |
| Target Audience | Young Indian Engineers |
| Funding Level | 1 Lakh and a Citation |
| Application deadline | 10th April 2026 |
| Article Category | Scholarship |
Eligibility Criteria
The Following criteria includes :
- Must be an Indian citizen
- Must be not Exceed 45 years of age as of 1st January 2026
- Must have their novel engineering or technology ideas translated into successful startup enterprises.
- Women candidates are eligible for age relaxation of five years for the award .
Assessment Process
Assessment of applicants for the scholarship of there will be a two-tier assessment process. The Selection Committee will initially shortlist candidates, who will then present to the Committee. Ultimately, the Committee will recommend a nominee for the INAE Young Innovator & Entrepreneur Award. If no suitable nomination is found, no award will be given that year.
Financial Benefits
Selected students will receive a ₹ 1 Lakh and a citation
Important Dates
• Deadline – 10 April 2026
Required Documents
Applicants must submit the following documents:
- Nomination Form: Duly filled proform available on the INAE website.
- Brief CV: Highlighting engineering achievements and entrepreneurial journey.
- Startup Evidence: Incorporation certificate, product/process details, and impact proof.
- Endorsement: Nomination must be signed by an INAE Fellow, CEO, Director, or Head of the organisation (Self-nomination is not permitted).
Salient Features of INAE Young Innovator & Entrepreneur Award
- Prestige: Recognition by India’s top body of engineers.
- Networking: Opportunities to interact with eminent INAE fellows and industry leaders.
- Validity: A nomination is valid for one year only . If not selected, a fresh nomination is required the following year.
Application Process of INAE Young Innovator & Entrepreneur Award
- Click on the ‘Apply Now‘ button and read the details carefully.
- Log in to the account using valid credentials. (Note:- If the applicants are not registered, fill in the required details and ‘Register’.)
- Nominations must be sent via email to ‘inaehq@inae.in’ in the prescribed format.
Helpline Number
- Email: inaehq@inae.in
- Contact: 011-26582475
FAQs
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