The inaugural season of Vande Bharatam, a nationwide initiative by Gautam Adani to unearth entrepreneurial talent, concluded on September 19, 2026. The grand finale saw Gujarat-based construction-technology startup MiCoB emerge as the overall winner, securing a ₹50 lakh prize and a significant ₹30 crore investment commitment.
During its run, the program facilitated investment commitments totaling ₹50 crore for various startups across India. Vande Bharatam was launched with the vision of showcasing innovative businesses from all states and Union territories, extending beyond major urban centers.
MiCoB Leads Record Investment
MiCoB's ₹30 crore investment commitment, secured from Flipkart CEO Kalyan Krishnamurthy and Renee Cosmetics founder Ashutosh Valani, was valued at a pre-money valuation of ₹110 crore. This deal was highlighted as the largest single investment commitment in Indian television history by the initiative's organizers.
Over ten episodes, 54 finalist startups presented their ventures to a panel of investors, entrepreneurs, and industry leaders. Forty-four of these startups received some form of support, which included direct investments, mentorship, access to networks, pilot project opportunities, or the program's 'Vande Wings' recognition.
Broader Impact and Other Winners
Mentors on the show collectively pledged ₹50 crore in monetary commitments to 12 startups. Beyond financial backing, 19 startups earned 'Vande Wings' recognition, signifying their potential and innovation. The program also provided extensive mentorship, networking opportunities, and pilot project access to its finalists.
The Grand Finale distributed a combined prize pool of ₹1.95 crore across various categories. Following MiCoB's first-place win, Bhaumya Innovations Private Limited secured the second position with a ₹30 lakh prize, and Ambiator Private Limited came in third, receiving ₹25 lakh. Genrobotic Innovations Pvt Ltd and SpaceFields Pvt Ltd took fourth and fifth places, with prizes of ₹20 lakh and ₹15 lakh, respectively.
Special Category Recognitions
- Divyang Category: Kaiteki Innovations Private Limited and Freedom Wheels Mobility Solutions Private Limited (₹11 lakh each)
- Women Category: Humble Bee (Buzzworthy Ventures Private Limited) (₹11 lakh)
- Sustainability Category: XLEAP Care Private Limited (₹11 lakh)
- Rural Category: Frontier Markets Consulting Pvt Ltd (₹11 lakh)
Adani Emphasizes Grassroots Innovation
Commenting on the conclusion of the season, Adani Group Chairman Gautam Adani reiterated the initiative's core mission.
"Vande Bharatam was never about a single winner. It was about proving that India's next generation of builders exists in every corner of this country, not just its big cities," Adani stated.The program, hosted by actor Rajeev Khandelwal, aims to offer sustained support beyond initial funding, providing startups with ongoing mentorship, vital networks, and opportunities for growth.