The Social Innovation Summit 2026 is the 3rd edition of a competition organised by COEP's Bhau Institute of Innovation, Entrepreneurship, and Leadership — a DST-supported startup incubator in Pune. This innovation challenge invites social entrepreneurs, innovators, and early-stage startups to develop sustainable solutions across healthcare, agriculture, clean technology, waste management, grassroots innovation, and SDG-aligned innovation.
COEP's Bhau Institute has supported 380+ startups, created 1,500+ jobs, and facilitated 141+ intellectual properties. The summit aims to nurture social entrepreneurs building businesses with measurable environmental and societal impact.
Who Should Apply
Social entrepreneurs, innovators, early-stage startups, and students working on sustainable solutions. Participants must be at the Prototype, MVP, or Commercialization stage. Teams and individual founders are welcome.
Focus Areas
Healthcare, Agriculture, Environment, Clean Energy, Waste to Wealth, Grassroots Innovation, SDG-Aligned Innovation, and Sustainable Development.
Format & Timeline
Applications open until June 5, 2026. The summit takes place in the 4th week of August 2026 at COEP's Bhau Institute in Pune. The top 10 shortlisted innovations will present before a jury panel. Winners will be announced at the closing ceremony.
Prizes & Benefits
Top 3 innovators receive the Dr. Gauri Shah Best Ideation Grant of ₹50,000 each, plus incubation and mentorship support at COEP's Bhau Institute, Pune. All top 10 shortlisted teams receive a certificate and memento.
Eligibility
Open to social entrepreneurs, innovators, early-stage startups, and students working on sustainability-focused solutions. No explicit geographic restriction — applicable to any team that can travel to/present at the summit in Pune.
Important Notes
Shortlisted top 10 innovators are responsible for their own travel and accommodation. Detailed pitch deck templates and guidelines are available at https://bhau.org/events/social-innovation-summit-2026/
How to Apply
Register and submit your innovation idea through the official Google Form (linked in the application URL). The deadline is June 5, 2026.
