Nagaland startups get INR 1 crore seed funding via YouthNet

DIMAPUR — In a defining moment for Nagaland’s startup landscape, nine home-grown startups have secured a total seed funding of INR 1 crore under the Startup India Seed Fund Scheme (SISFS), facilitated through the YouthNet Incubation Centre (YIC).

Advisor Hekani Jakhalu, Department of Industries & Commerce, in her remarks during the funding ceremony held at YouthNet Dimapur Office on Tuesday highlighted the critical role that startups play as trailblazers and role models.

The advisor emphasised the need to create tangible success stories that not only inspire others but also help build trust and credibility with financial institutions, YouthNet stated in a press release.

“Govt. has no free money, only performers will be rewarded and supported,” Jakhalu said.

“What makes this announcement remarkable is also the diversity and grit of the entrepreneurs — including founders from districts like Shamator and Noklak, as well as entrepreneurs with disabilities, proving that innovation knows no boundaries,” YouthNet stated.

The SISFS initiative aims to provide critical financial assistance for proof of concept, prototype development, product trials, market entry, and commercialization.

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The startups include Naga Feather Private Limited, Ura Agritech Private Limited, Shihto Integrated Farm Private Limited, Global Connect Music and Films Private Limited, Tsongyam Innovations Private Limited, Craftycrochet Private Limited, Headhunter Leather Crafting Private Limited, Peter and Cecilia Essence Private Limited and Nexuscipherguard India (Opc) Private Limited.

“Every startup here carries the hopes of a new Nagaland, one that believes in its potential, invests in home-grown talent, builds locally with pride, and dreams globally with confidence. These entrepreneurs are not just creating companies; they are laying the foundation for a self-reliant and thriving economy,” said YouthNet Director Nuneseno Chase.

Speaking at the event, Keneirienuo K Theunuo, Team Leader, Startup Nagaland and Deputy Director at the Directorate of Industries & Commerce, shared that a revised Startup Nagaland Policy will soon be unveiled to further empower the next generation of entrepreneurs.

“The momentum is real — Nagaland has recorded a 200% growth in startup registrations, the highest in India. The time is now,” she said.

Neikepekho Shosahie, Associate Director at YouthNet, said that under the SISFS model, funds are released in milestone-based tranches. Subsequent disbursements are contingent on the achievement of agreed milestones, with provisions for termination in cases of non-performance or ethical practices.

This funding model provides early-stage capital via debt or convertible instruments, easing financial strain while promoting accountability and growth. Notably, funds are released in tranches tied to practical milestones, rather than promises, ensuring progress-driven support, Shosahie informed.

Mentors at YouthNet Incubation Centre — Yanpvuo Kikon (Kikonic & Kley Enterprise), Dr. Ditalak Mpanme (Nagaland University), and Lanu Akum Imchen (Cloud Mountain) — encouraged startups to think long-term, build trust, focus on quality, and embrace global standards.

Their collective message was clear: Nagaland’s startups are no longer just local — they’re world-ready.

“This funding initiative of Startup India Seed Fund Scheme (SISFS) is a transformative initiative aimed at addressing the critical funding gap for startups during the early stages of growth.

“The scheme is spearheaded by Startup India, under the Department for Promotion of Industry and Internal Trade (DPIIT), ensuring robust evaluation and disbursement through approved incubators, with a focus on transparency and milestone-based funding,” the release added.

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