The Department for Promotion of Industry and Internal Trade (DPIIT), Ministry of Commerce and Industry, has signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) with Zepto Private Limited to support and scale early-stage startups in the manufacturing sector through the ‘Zepto Nova’ innovation challenge.

The collaboration will run a six-month programme to mentor startups developing technologies in hardware, IoT, packaging and sustainable manufacturing. The initiative aims to help them progress from prototype to market-ready solutions using Zepto’s delivery and digital infrastructure.

The partnership will provide mentorship and capacity building through expert-led workshops and Startup India support, with a special focus on women-led and Tier II/III startups. Zepto will also integrate over 100 Indian startups into its supply chain, offering them opportunities to showcase products, gain market access and scale their presence.

Speaking on the occasion, DPIIT Joint Secretary Sanjiv noted that unicorn support is among the most impactful ways to uplift startups, allowing them to learn from the journey of successful ventures. He stressed that market access remains a crucial enabler for startup success.

The MoU was signed by DPIIT Director Dr. Sumeet Jarangal and Zepto Co-founder Kaivalya Vohra. Vohra said the partnership will help build the future of manufacturing through the Zepto Nova programme.

This MoU forms part of DPIIT’s broader efforts to foster partnerships that drive rapid innovation, inclusive economic growth and a self-reliant India.