Youth Co:Lab National Innovation Challenge 2026 is the 8th edition of a national youth-focused social innovation and entrepreneurship programme in India, launched by the United Nations Development Programme in collaboration with the Atal Innovation Mission, NITI Aayog, and co-created globally with the Citi Foundation. Implemented in India with T-Hub Foundation, the 2026 edition focuses on the theme of Responsible Consumption, aligned with the Government of India’s Mission LiFE initiative.
The programme is designed to empower youth-led startups and NGOs by supporting early-stage ideas and solutions that promote sustainable lifestyles and environmental responsibility. Participants receive structured capacity building, mentorship, ecosystem exposure, and opportunities for seed support. The challenge includes a virtual National Springboard Programme, a National Innovation Dialogue, an in-person regional immersion and bootcamp at T-Hub Hyderabad, and culminates in seed grants for top-performing startups.
The 2026 edition focuses on three sub-themes: Sustainable Textiles and Fashion, Circular Economy Innovations, and Sustainable Food Systems and Water Conservation. Through these focus areas, Youth Co:Lab aims to nurture scalable, impact-driven ventures that address environmental and social challenges while contributing to the Sustainable Development Goals.