Startup Innovation Hub Campus Tank Uttar Pradesh Launches at Chandigarh University
Entrepreneurship receives a major boost in Uttar Pradesh as Minister Nand Gopal Gupta inaugurates the Campus Tank Uttar Pradesh initiative at Chandigarh University UP, creating India’s largest university-led startup launchpad with USD 6 million funding pool to support young innovators under 30 years of age.
The startup ecosystem in Uttar Pradesh witnessed a significant milestone on November 2, 2025, when Honorable Cabinet Minister Shri Nand Gopal Gupta ‘Nandi’ officially launched Campus Tank Uttar Pradesh at Chandigarh University. This groundbreaking initiative represents India’s biggest university-led launchpad designed specifically for young innovators at the country’s first AI-augmented multidisciplinary university.
The Campus Tank Uttar Pradesh serves as a comprehensive platform providing aspiring entrepreneurs with financial support and expert mentorship to transform innovative ideas into successful unicorn companies. This strategic initiative addresses the critical gap in startup funding and mentorship that often prevents young entrepreneurs from scaling their ventures effectively.
Strategic Partnership Powers Innovation Ecosystem
The launch of Campus Tank Uttar Pradesh brings together powerful industry collaborators to create a robust support system for emerging entrepreneurs. Chandigarh University UP has partnered with Cube (Founders Space), backed by India’s largest talent hiring platform ‘Apna’, along with leading early-stage investment firm Venture Catalysts (VCats) and AICTE.
This collaborative approach provides a one-stop solution for innovators below 30 years of age, offering them the resources needed to transform startup concepts into high-impact ventures. The partnership combines educational excellence with industry expertise, creating an environment where theoretical knowledge meets practical application.
The funding pool of USD 6 million demonstrates the commitment of all partners to nurture the next generation of entrepreneurs and contribute to India’s growing startup landscape.
Impressive Track Record Validates Success Model
Since the inception of Campus Tank, over 1000 startups have joined this transformative initiative, showcasing the widespread appeal and effectiveness of the program. Among these participants, 10 outstanding startups have successfully secured funding, impressing investors with their creativity, market potential, and scalability.
These success stories validate the Campus Tank model and demonstrate the university’s entrepreneurial ecosystem’s ability to foster innovation. The startups that have secured funding represent diverse sectors and showcase the platform’s capacity to support varied business concepts.
Chandigarh University’s Technology Business Incubation (TBI) Center has already incubated more than 200 startups on campus, with 11 achieving annual turnover exceeding ₹50 lakh. This track record reinforces the institution’s commitment to creating successful entrepreneurs.
Government Support Strengthens Startup Vision
During the launch event, Minister Nand Gopal Gupta emphasized that universities serve as laboratories where “man-making” transforms into “nation-building.” He praised Chandigarh University UP for modernizing education and aligning with global standards.
The Minister highlighted India’s position as the world’s third-largest startup ecosystem under Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s leadership, with startup numbers growing at 12-15 percent annually. The double-engine government has implemented several measures to promote innovation in Uttar Pradesh.
This government backing provides additional credibility and support to Campus Tank Uttar Pradesh, ensuring that the initiative aligns with broader state and national development goals.
AI Space Launch Complements Innovation Framework
Following the Campus Tank Uttar Pradesh launch, Minister Gupta unveiled ‘CU – AI Space’, a dedicated facility designed for students, startups, and industry professionals to collaborate in artificial intelligence development. This specialized space features advanced technology and AI-powered tools to inspire young innovators.
The AI Space enables participants to develop solutions for real-world challenges through research, development, and innovation. This addition strengthens the overall innovation ecosystem at Chandigarh University UP and provides additional resources for Campus Tank participants.
Chancellor Satnam Singh Sandhu emphasized that Campus Tank Uttar Pradesh represents a revolutionary initiative that will shape India’s next generation of entrepreneurs. He stressed the youth’s crucial role in nation-building through artificial intelligence integration.
The initiative aligns with Prime Minister Modi’s vision of building a Viksit Bharat (Developed India) by 2047, positioning college and university campuses as engines of innovation and economic growth rather than just educational centers.
