WHAT IS GEN-E?

Gen-E is an extraordinary competition and incubation program designed to inspire and empower young Indian innovators under the age of 21. This initiative is a golden opportunity for the next generation of trailblazers to showcase their ideas, pitch their vision, and compete for the ultimate entrepreneurial launchpad.

Across India, we will invite students to present their ideas. The most promising finalists will earn an exclusive chance to fly to Dubai—alongside one parent—for the grand finale, which will be held in December. The finale will take place alongside the prestigious Forttuna Global Excellence Awards Global Edition, providing unparalleled exposure and networking opportunities.

The grand prize winner will receive ₹10,00,000 in seed funding (offered against equity) and a life-changing opportunity to undergo a full year of professional support to bring their entrepreneurial dream to life.

OUR 2025 PANEL

Aditii Handa

Chairman and Managing Director, The Forttuna Group

Raul Handa

Founder & CEO, The Forttuna Group

Aadil Shah

CEO & Founder, AADAR | Serial Entrepreneur | Advisor

Rajan Balakrishna Raje

Head of SME Committee (Western Region), Indian Chamber of Commerce | Board Member, Bombay Chamber of Commerce and Industry

PROGRAM OVERVIEW

Discover the Key Highlights of our Gen-E Program

HOW CAN I APPLY?

Click on the "Apply Now" button below to complete your application form and embark on your journey today.

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Please Note: Participation in the GEN-E Program does not guarantee a win. Our program is strictly merit-based, and winners are selected by an independent panel of judges. The participation application fee is non-refundable.

PARTICIPATION PROCESS

WHAT WILL I GET AS A WINNER?

Claim Your Winner's Perks

WHAT WILL I GET AS A FINALIST?

Claim Your Finalist's Perks

FAQ's

1. What is Gen-E?

Gen-E is an exclusive competition and incubation program designed to inspire and empower young Indian innovators under the age of 21. It provides a platform for students to showcase their entrepreneurial ideas, compete for seed funding, and receive professional mentorship to turn their vision into reality.

2. Who can participate in Gen-E?

Indian students under the age of 21 who have an innovative business idea are eligible to participate.

3. How is Gen-E different from other startup competitions?

Gen-E goes beyond a traditional competition by offering ₹10,00,000 in seed funding (against equity), a full year of professional business support, and global exposure through The Forttuna Group.

4. How do I apply for Gen-E?

Interested participants must submit an online application, which includes details about their business idea, its potential impact, and their entrepreneurial vision.

5. What is the selection criteria?

Participants will be evaluated based on the originality, feasibility, scalability, and impact of their idea, as well as their leadership potential.

6. When is the deadline for applications?

The exact deadline will be announced on the official Gen-E website and social media channels. Early applications are encouraged to maximize preparation time.

7. Will all applicants get feedback on their submissions?

Due to the high number of entries, only shortlisted candidates will receive feedback.

8. What happens after I apply?

Shortlisted applicants will be invited to pitch their ideas. The most promising finalists will advance to the grand finale in Dubai.

9. Where will the grand finale take place?

The grand finale will be held in December in Dubai, alongside the prestigious Forttuna Global Excellence Awards Global Edition.

10. Do finalists have to travel to Dubai at their own expense?

No. The selected finalists will receive an all-expenses-paid trip to Dubai for themselves and one parent.

11. Will other finalists receive support?

While only the grand prize winner will receive the full package, all finalists will gain valuable exposure, mentorship opportunities, and networking experiences in Dubai.

12. How is the seed funding structured?

The ₹10,00,000 seed funding will be provided against equity, ensuring long-term support for the winning startup’s growth.

13. What happens after winning Gen-E?

The winner will enter a year-long incubation program, gaining access to expert mentorship, resources, and business development support to turn their startup into a sustainable venture.

14. Can participants reapply in the future?

Yes! If an applicant is not selected as a finalist, they are encouraged to apply in the next edition.

15. Who provides mentorship in the program?

Mentorship will be provided by experienced entrepreneurs, investors, and industry experts who have successfully built and scaled businesses.

16. How can I stay updated about Gen-E?

Follow our official website and social media channels for announcements, deadlines, and updates.

17. Can I apply with a team, or is it only for individuals?

Participants may apply as individuals or as part of a small team. However, only one person from the team will be eligible for the Dubai trip and mentorship program.

18. Who organizes Gen-E?

Gen-E is organized by The Forttuna Group in collaboration with the Forttuna Global Excellence Awards to support and nurture the next generation of entrepreneurs.