Manipal Entrepreneurship Summit 2026 Unveils India's Next Big Startup Policies

The Manipal Entrepreneurship Summit 2026 (MES 2026) will take place from 12 to 14 February 2026 in Manipal, Karnataka. Organised by the Entrepreneurship Cell of Manipal Institute of Technology (MIT), the event aims to foster innovation, collaboration, and startup growth among students, investors, and industry leaders.

One of its key highlights is the launch of the Innovation Policy Consortium (IPC), a national initiative where student bodies will develop research-backed policy recommendations for India's startup ecosystem.

MES 2026 is hosted by MIT Manipal, a leading institute under Manipal Academy of Higher Education (MAHE), recognised as an Institution of Eminence. The summit will feature high-profile speakers, including entrepreneurs like Shantanu Deshpande, Ankur Warikoo, and Sahiba Bali, who will share insights in keynote sessions.

The Innovation Mela, the summit's flagship startup expo, will showcase over 150 startups and attract more than 22,000 visitors. Another major attraction is Pitch Tank, a pan-India startup pitching competition with a prize pool of Rs. 1.5 lakh and potential funding opportunities for winners.

The Innovation Policy Consortium (IPC) will bring together student groups to tackle challenges in India's startup landscape. Their findings will be compiled into a policy document, later presented to government officials. Dr. (Cdr) Anil Rana, Director of MIT, stressed the summit's role in shaping innovation, entrepreneurship, and industry readiness among students. Meanwhile, Lt. Gen. (Dr.) M. D. Venkatesh (Retd.), Vice Chancellor of MAHE, highlighted its importance in advancing innovation-driven education for national progress.

MES 2026 will serve as a platform for students, startups, and policymakers to collaborate on solutions for India's entrepreneurial challenges. The summit's outcomes, including the IPC's policy recommendations, are expected to influence future startup policies and support the growth of young innovators.