In a major boost to Nagaland’s growing startup ecosystem, nine local startups have secured seed funding totalling ₹1 crore under the Startup India Seed Fund Scheme (SISFS), facilitated through the YouthNet Incubation Centre (YIC).
The funding was formally announced at a ceremony held on Monday at YouthNet’s Dimapur office, where Advisor to Industries & Commerce, Hekani Jakhalu, delivered a strong message: “The government has no free money; only performers will be rewarded and supported.”
Addressing the gathered entrepreneurs, Jakhalu emphasised the role of startups as “trailblazers” capable of inspiring others and earning the confidence of financial institutions. She urged the recipients to build credible, tangible success stories that can strengthen Nagaland’s standing in the business sector and attract further investment.
The funding round reflects not just financial assistance, but also recognition of innovation, resilience, and commitment. The selected startups span diverse sectors and geographies — from entrepreneurs based in remote districts like Shamator and Noklak to founders living with disabilities — underscoring that innovation in Nagaland knows no boundaries.
The nine funded startups are:
- 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
- Nexuscipherguard India (OPC) Private Limited
Nuneseno Chase, Director of YouthNet, praised the determination of the entrepreneurs, describing them as architects of a self-reliant economy. “Every startup here carries the hopes of a new Nagaland — one that believes in its potential, invests in homegrown talent, builds locally with pride, and dreams globally with confidence. These entrepreneurs are not just creating companies; they are laying the foundation for a thriving and self-reliant economy,” she said.
The Startup India Seed Fund Scheme, a flagship programme under the Department for Promotion of Industry and Internal Trade (DPIIT), provides crucial early-stage funding support to startups for proof of concept, prototype development, product trials, market entry, and commercialisation.
Keneirienuo K. Theunuo, Team Leader of Startup Nagaland, announced that a revised Startup Nagaland Policy will soon be unveiled. She also revealed that Nagaland has witnessed a remarkable 200% increase in startup registrations — the highest growth rate recorded in India.
Neikepekho Shosahie, Associate Director of YouthNet, highlighted the performance-linked nature of the SISFS disbursement model. He explained that the funding is released in tranches, with each subsequent round contingent on milestone achievements. The model also includes provisions for termination in cases of non-performance or unethical practices.
Mentors at the YouthNet Incubation Centre urged startups to maintain a focus on long-term value creation, emphasising trust, quality, and adherence to global standards. The message was unambiguous: Nagaland’s startups must aim beyond local markets — they are world-ready.
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