Punjab's Green Startups Get Boost from AIC ISB & HDFC

• AIC ISB and HDFC Bank Parivartan introduce ArthX to support sustainability startups in Punjab, backed by the Government of Punjab
• Offers INR 1 Crore in grants (up to INR 10 lakhs per startup), mentorship, and strategic networking
• Targets startups in clean energy, climate action, circular economy, sustainable agriculture, and green manufacturing

The Atal Incubation Centre (AIC) at the Indian School of Business (ISB), in partnership with HDFC Bank Parivartan, has introduced ArthX as a sustainability-focused program which operates under the bank's StartUp Grants initiative.

ArthX provides assistance to revenue-stage startups which operate in Punjab and develop solutions for sustainability problems. The initiative also has the backing of the Government of Punjab through Startup Punjab, which will serve as a key ecosystem partner.

Punjab has recently become a hub for innovation, particularly in sectors related to environmental sustainability and climate resilience. Many startups which possess strong business models face difficulties in expanding their operations because they cannot obtain essential growth resources and strategic partnerships and industry connections.

The program aims to establish a funding path which enables Punjab-based entrepreneurs to transform their initial business success into sustainable operations with lasting effects.

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ArthX will support startups that work on sustainable solutions for clean energy and climate action and circular economy systems and sustainable agriculture and green manufacturing. These three areas of research match both national sustainability objectives and Punjab economic development targets.

“ArthX is designed to bridge a critical gap in the startup journey, where promising sustainability ventures require structured support to scale. By combining grant funding with strategic ecosystem enablement, AIC ISB aims to help Punjab-based founders translate early traction into long-term, scalable impact”, stated Naman Singhal, CEO, AIC ISB.

The initiative provides INR 1 Crore in grant funding which allows selected startups to receive financial support of up to INR 10 lakhs each.

Startups will receive financial assistance together with mentorship and access to strategic networks and business execution support which will help them grow their market presence and develop sustainable operations.

Revenue-stage startups that work in the sustainability sector can now apply for funding through programs based in Punjab.