The Startup Hub Expo 2026, co-located with the 33rd Convergence India Expo from March 23-25, became a high-activity hub for India’s startup ecosystem, bringing founders, investors, and policymakers together with a sharp focus on access to funding and global expansion.

The platform emerged as a key gateway for early and growth-stage ventures looking to secure capital, forge partnerships and tap into international markets.

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Investor Access and Startup Pitches Take Centre Stage

A key highlight of the expo was the structured Startup–Investor Meet, which enabled more than 600 one-on-one meetings between founders and over 100 investors. The format aimed to fast-track funding discussions and open collaboration opportunities across sectors such as deep tech, smart mobility and digital infrastructure.

The Startup Pitch Competition drew over 150 applications from across India. After a multi-stage screening process, 12 startups were shortlisted to present before a jury and a live audience of investors, industry executives and policymakers.

The jury included Anil Raj of Techroutes Network, Dr Ish Anand of iCapital Ventures, Sagar Mahat of Indus Tree Biz, Anil Taneja of Spotlight SP and Swapnil Shete of Scalefusion.

The winning startup secured a slot at CES 2027 in Las Vegas, along with an upgraded booth, the Prem Behl Excellence Award, and a cash prize of ₹2 lakh. Additional opportunities included a sponsored showcase at Expand North Star 2026 in Dubai and entry into the Supernova Challenge semi-finals.

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Zerowatt Energy Wins, Eyes Middle East and Global Markets

Zerowatt Energy emerged as the winner of the pitch competition, gaining recognition for its energy-efficiency solutions for industrial and commercial users.

The company focuses on data-led energy management systems to reduce consumption and improve operational efficiency. The model aligns with rising demand for cost optimisation and sustainability compliance across industries.

Company representative Vishal Jayakumar said the platform enabled direct engagement with investors and industry stakeholders, adding that the firm plans to use upcoming global events in Dubai and Las Vegas to expand its presence, particularly in the Middle East.

The Startup Hub Expo remained a core segment of the larger Convergence India Expo, which recorded over 41,000 visitors, facilitated 1,100 curated meetings and hosted more than 280 speakers across 60 sessions.

The event featured over 1,000 exhibitors from 23 countries and reported a digital reach of more than 1.5 billion impressions. Supported by government bodies and industry associations, the expo continues to serve as a platform connecting startups, enterprises and policymakers.

The next edition, marking the 34th Convergence India Expo, is scheduled for March 23–25, 2027, at Bharat Mandapam in New Delhi.