The Plant Lipids Startup Challenge 2026, is a hands-on Entrepreneur-in-Residence (EIR) journey for students who want to build products solving industry problems.

Unlike hackathons or short-term workshops, this program immerses participants in an industry-backed problem-solving environment, with clear milestones from

idea → validation → startup creation.

Problem Areas:

1. Botanical extraction and process optimization
2. Automation and smart manufacturing
3. Natural colours and clean-label alternatives
4. Taste masking and flavour enhancement
5. Functional foods and nutraceuticals
6. Agri value addition and Agri 4.0 solutions

Students working on aligned ideas beyond the listed themes will also be supported.