In a significant development for Nagaland’s burgeoning startup ecosystem, nine local startups have successfully secured a total of ₹1 crore in seed funding under the Startup India Seed Fund Scheme (SISFS), facilitated by the YouthNet Incubation Centre (YIC). The announcement was made during a ceremony at YouthNet’s Dimapur office on Monday, where Hekani Jakhalu, the Advisor to Industries & Commerce, emphasized a crucial message: “The government has no free money; only performers will be rewarded and supported.”
Addressing the entrepreneurs gathered at the event, Jakhalu underscored the pivotal role of startups as “trailblazers” who have the potential to inspire others and gain trust from financial institutions. She encouraged the recipients to develop credible, tangible success stories that not only enhance Nagaland’s reputation in the business world but also attract further investment into the region.
This funding round goes beyond mere financial support; it serves as an acknowledgment of the innovation, resilience, and dedication demonstrated by these startups. They represent a range of industries and geographical areas, highlighting the fact that creativity and entrepreneurship in Nagaland are truly limitless. Startups from remote areas such as Shamator and Noklak, as well as those founded by individuals with disabilities, are proof of this diversity.
The nine startups receiving funding include Naga Feather Private Limited, Ura Agritech Private Limited, Shihto Integrated Farm Private Limited, Global Connect Music and Films Private Limited, Tsongyam Innovations Private Limited, Craftycrochet Private Limited, Headhunter Leather Crafting Private Limited, Peter and Cecilia Essence Private Limited, and Nexuscipherguard India (OPC) Private Limited.
Nuneseno Chase, the Director of YouthNet, praised the entrepreneurs, referring to them as architects of a self-sufficient economy. She stated, “Every startup here carries the hopes of a new Nagaland — one that believes in its potential, invests in homegrown talent, builds locally with pride, and dreams globally with confidence. These entrepreneurs are not just creating companies; they are laying the foundation for a thriving and self-reliant economy.”
The Startup India Seed Fund Scheme is a flagship initiative under the Department for Promotion of Industry and Internal Trade (DPIIT), offering essential early-stage funding to startups for various developmental needs like proof of concept, prototype development, product trials, market entry, and commercialization. Keneirienuo K. Theunuo, the Team Leader of Startup Nagaland, revealed plans for a revised Startup Nagaland Policy, indicating that the state has seen a remarkable 200% increase in startup registrations-the highest growth rate recorded in India.
Neikepekho Shosahie, Associate Director of YouthNet, outlined the performance-linked nature of the SISFS disbursement model, noting that funding is allocated in phases, contingent upon achieving specified milestones. The model ensures accountability by allowing for funding termination in cases of non-performance or unethical practices.
Mentors at the YouthNet Incubation Centre urged startups to focus on long-term value creation, emphasizing the importance of trust, quality, and adherence to global standards. The overarching message was clear: Nagaland’s startups should aspire to reach beyond local marketplaces and position themselves as global competitors.
Original Source: https://eastmojo.com/free-digest/2025/06/17/nine-nagaland-startups-secure-rs-1-crore-total-seed-funding/
Category: Free Digest,Nagaland,News
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Publish Date: 2025-06-17 18:14:00
