Twelve Circular Economy Startups in North-East Backed by Pernod Ricard India Foundation and IIMCIP
Guwahati, March 02, 2026: A significant milestone was reached in North-East India as twelve circular economy startups were recognized at the Prakriti Incubation Launchpad – Startup Summit in Guwahati. This event marked the culmination of a year-long initiative led by the Pernod Ricard India Foundation in collaboration with the IIM Calcutta Innovation Park (IIMCIP).
Selection Process and Support
Out of 36 shortlisted ventures, a jury selected 12 startups that demonstrated potential for growth and sustainability. The founders of these startups received structured mentorship, capacity-building support, fellowship grants, and opportunities for market access. The top six startups were awarded grants totaling ₹70 lakh to aid in their commercialization efforts, along with connections to buyers and seller partnerships within the ecosystem.
Impact and Employment
Collectively, these twelve ventures are making a significant impact by employing 295 individuals, including 185 women. They are projected to target cumulative revenues exceeding ₹15 crore over the next three years. The initiative emphasizes the importance of building sustainability-led enterprises that are deeply rooted in the region’s rich biodiversity and local knowledge systems.
Statements from Key Figures
During the summit, Ajay Jain, Chairman of IIM Calcutta Innovation Park, highlighted the strategic importance of North-East India in India’s sustainability-led economic transformation. He stated, “North-East India is no longer a peripheral growth story. It represents a strategic frontier in India’s sustainability-led economic transformation. The region’s biodiversity and traditional knowledge systems offer a competitive advantage in building circular economy enterprises. Circularity today is not a moral choice; it is an economic imperative. These entrepreneurs are building businesses that combine environmental responsibility with market viability, and that is the foundation of a resilient India.”
Gagandeep Singh Sethi, Senior Vice President of Integrated Operations & S&R at Pernod Ricard India, emphasized the untapped potential of the North-East. He remarked, “Through our partnership with IIM Calcutta Innovation Park under the Prakriti Incubation Launchpad, we have seen how structured mentorship, capacity building, and ecosystem support can transform early-stage ideas into scalable enterprises. Sustainability and growth are complementary forces. We are proud of this milestone and are committed to continuing the journey with a new cohort of entrepreneurs.”
Dr. VK Rai, CEO of IIM Calcutta Innovation Park, added, “Rooted in biodiversity, indigenous knowledge, and community strength, the North East is uniquely positioned for sustainability-led entrepreneurship and poised for exponential STEM-driven growth. The Prakriti cohort demonstrates how context-driven incubation and ecosystem partnerships can unlock this promise and create enterprises that are both impactful and scalable.”
Challenges and Opportunities
A panel discussion during the summit addressed the challenges faced by green startups in the region, particularly regarding funding and the need for stronger market linkages. The discussion emphasized the importance of investor readiness to help these startups scale sustainably.
Collaboration for Economic Impact
This initiative reflects a growing trend of collaboration between corporate foundations and incubation institutions aimed at strengthening regional entrepreneurship ecosystems. Such partnerships are crucial for delivering measurable economic impacts and fostering sustainable development in North-East India.
Conclusion
The recognition of these twelve circular economy startups is a testament to the innovative spirit and potential of entrepreneurs in North-East India. By harnessing local resources and knowledge, these startups are not only contributing to economic growth but also paving the way for a more sustainable future.
Note: The information contained in this article is based on the latest updates from the Prakriti Incubation Launchpad – Startup Summit and reflects the ongoing efforts to promote sustainability and entrepreneurship in North-East India.
