Flipkart Ventures, the investment arm of Flipkart, has partnered with the Department for Promotion of Industry and Internal Trade (DPIIT) to launch the Flipkart Tourism Challenge. This initiative, under the Government of India's Startup India program, aims to drive tech-led solutions in India's burgeoning tourism ecosystem.
As part of the Bharat Startup Grand Challenge, the Flipkart Tourism Challenge seeks to identify and support startups developing innovative travel-tech solutions. The focus areas include:
- AI-powered affordability tools
- Personalized travel recommendations
- On-ground tech solutions
- Enhanced discovery for tourists
Applications are open to DPIIT-recognized startups and Indian companies until May 5, 2025.
Incentives for Participants:
- The winning startup will receive a cash prize of INR 2.5 lakh.
- Mentorship from Flipkart leaders.
- Potential inclusion in the Flipkart Leap Ahead accelerator, offering up to USD 500,000 in seed funding.
- Access to founder training curated by Bain & Company.
- Opportunities to pilot solutions with Flipkart Group companies.
The runner-up will be awarded INR 1 lakh, along with mentorship and capability-building support.
Statements from Leadership:
Lubna Ahmed, Vice President and Head of Flipkart Ventures, stated, "At Flipkart Ventures, we see startups as key drivers of innovation and economic growth. Through the Flipkart Tourism Challenge, we aim to empower emerging entrepreneurs building scalable, tech-first solutions to real-world challenges by providing them with the capital, mentorship, and industry access they need to succeed."
A representative from Startup India added, "India's startup ecosystem continues to be a beacon of innovation, solving challenges across sectors with scale and agility. The Flipkart Tourism Challenge is an exciting step in that direction. We aim to empower homegrown startups to solve for India's unique travel needs and accelerate their journey from idea to scale."
About Flipkart Ventures:
Flipkart Ventures is committed to strengthening India's entrepreneurial landscape through its flagship accelerator program, Flipkart Leap Ahead (FLA). Backed by a USD 100 million seed-stage fund launched in 2022, FLA has already supported over 20 startups.
About Flipkart Group:
As one of India's leading digital commerce entities, the Flipkart Group includes Myntra, Cleartrip, Flipkart Wholesale, and super.money. The group remains dedicated to driving innovation and empowering the next generation of Indian startups.
For more information and to apply for the Flipkart Tourism Challenge, visit Flipkart Ventures