Himalayan Startup Trek 2025: IIT Mandi’s Grand Challenge for Innovation

The Indian Institute of Technology (IIT) Mandi Catalyst has unveiled plans for the highly anticipated Himalayan Startup Trek (HST) 2025, marking the 9th edition of this premier startup event in the Himalayan region. Scheduled for November 14-16, 2025, at the picturesque IIT Mandi campus in Himachal Pradesh, HST 2025 promises to be a melting pot of innovation, entrepreneurship, and networking.

At the heart of HST 2025 lies the HST Grand Challenge, a startup pitch competition designed to identify and nurture groundbreaking ideas across four critical thematic areas:

1. Human Computer Interaction (HCI): This theme focuses on creating user-friendly technologies that enhance human-machine interactions, ranging from assistive devices to immersive experiences.
2. Build for Himalayas (BFH): Tailored to address the unique challenges of the Himalayan region, this category seeks solutions in education, local product development, natural resource management, and social inclusion.
3. Environment and Sustainability (E&S): Aimed at creating a more habitable world, this theme targets innovations in climate change mitigation, waste management, water conservation, and sustainable resource utilization.
4. Bio Innovation (BI): This category is dedicated to leveraging biological processes and technologies to revolutionize healthcare, agriculture, manufacturing, and environmental sustainability.

The event offers a substantial grant pool of 11 lakh rupees, providing crucial financial support to promising startups. However, the benefits extend far beyond monetary rewards. Participants will have the opportunity to pitch their ideas to over 30 investors and engage with more than 150 mentors, speakers, and industry experts. This exposure can be invaluable for startups seeking guidance, partnerships, and potential funding opportunities.

IIT Mandi Catalyst has opened applications for the HST Grand Challenge, with a deadline set for September 7, 2025. The organizers emphasize that startups at any stage – from ideation to commercialization – are welcome to apply. This inclusive approach ensures a diverse range of innovations and encourages participation from entrepreneurs across the spectrum.

HST 2025 builds on an impressive track record, with previous editions facilitating over 480 incubation offers. The event has played a crucial role in establishing Himachal Pradesh as an emerging hub for startups, particularly in sectors such as agriculture, horticulture, biotechnology, food processing, clean energy, tourism, and healthcare.

The choice of IIT Mandi as the venue is significant, reflecting the institute’s commitment to fostering innovation and entrepreneurship in the Himalayan region. The campus provides a unique setting that combines world-class facilities with the inspiring natural beauty of the Himalayas.

Aspiring participants can find detailed information about the application process, eligibility criteria, and event schedule on the official IIT Mandi Catalyst website. The application fee is set at ₹399, which is non-refundable but ensures a fair selection process for all applicants.

As HST 2025 approaches, it not only offers a platform for startups to showcase their innovations but also underscores the growing importance of entrepreneurship in addressing regional and global challenges. With its focus on technology-driven solutions and sustainable development, the event aligns perfectly with India’s broader goals of fostering innovation and economic growth.

The countdown to HST 2025 has begun, and the Himalayas are poised to welcome a new generation of entrepreneurs, innovators, and changemakers. As this flagship event continues to grow in stature and impact, it reinforces IIT Mandi’s position as a key player in India’s startup ecosystem and highlights the untapped potential of the Himalayan region in driving technological advancements and sustainable solutions.

Learn More – https://iitmandicatalyst.in/hst2025/

Application Link