Flipkart Ventures and DPIIT Launch Flipkart Tourism Challenge to Boost Travel-Tech Innovation

Flipkart Ventures and DPIIT Launch Flipkart Tourism Challenge to Boost Travel-Tech Innovation

Flipkart Ventures, the investment arm of Flipkart, has joined hands with the Department for Promotion of Industry and Internal Trade (DPIIT) to launch the Flipkart Tourism Challenge under the Bharat Startup Grand Challenge, a flagship initiative of Startup India.

This initiative aims to spotlight and support technology-first startups that are innovating in the travel and tourism sector. Applications are now open until May 5, 2025, and the challenge invites DPIIT-recognised startups and Indian companies working on cutting-edge solutions in areas like:

• Destination discovery

• Personalised travel planning

• Immersive virtual previews

• AI-enabled pricing tools

• Tech-enhanced on-ground experiences

Empowering Innovation in Travel

“With demand rising for more accessible and personalized travel solutions, this challenge comes at a pivotal time,” said Lubna Ahmed, Vice President & Head of Flipkart Ventures. “We believe startups play a vital role in driving innovation and economic growth. This challenge reflects our shared vision with DPIIT to nurture technology-led entrepreneurship and enhance India’s travel experience.”

The winning startup will receive a prize of ₹2.5 lakh, mentorship from Flipkart leaders, and potential consideration for the Flipkart Leap Ahead (FLA) accelerator programme. The runner-up will receive ₹1 lakh and will also gain access to mentorship and skill-building resources.

Pathway to Scale with Flipkart Leap Ahead (FLA)

The Flipkart Tourism Challenge is closely aligned with the Flipkart Leap Ahead (FLA) programme—a $100 million initiative launched in 2022 to back promising digital startups with seed capital (up to $500K), strategic support, and access to Flipkart’s broader network.

Over 20 startups have already benefitted from FLA, which supports ventures focused on building for India at scale.

In addition to financial support, winners may get a chance to pilot their solutions with Flipkart Group companies, receive founder training curated by Bain & Company, and gain visibility among Flipkart’s network of investors.

A Startup India-Endorsed Push for Smart Tourism

A Startup India spokesperson commented, “India’s startup ecosystem continues to deliver high-impact innovation. Through this partnership with Flipkart, we aim to empower entrepreneurs to solve unique challenges in travel and tourism and take their ideas to scale.”

As India’s travel landscape continues to evolve, the Flipkart Tourism Challenge offers a unique opportunity for startups to innovate, collaborate, and make a measurable difference.