HCLTech, Pearson & MeitY Hub launch ARISE FOR YOU student drive

• RISE FOR YOU™ aims to empower 1.5 lakh students across 3,000+ campuses.
• Program blends mentoring, certification, and recognition to nurture student entrepreneurs
• Winning teams receive media spotlight, incubation, and grants up to 10 lakhs.

HCLTech, in collaboration with Pearson India and guided by the strategic direction of MeitY Startup Hub, announced today the information about the launch of ARISE FOR YOU™ (Aspire). Rise. Inspire. Skill. Excel.), a national programme aimed at motivating and empowering student entrepreneurs in India. The program will involve more than 150,000 students on 3,000+ campuses, culminating with a national finale on March 1213, 2026, and the country’s largest student entrepreneurship event. The program is a mentorship program blending certification and recognition to develop the next generation of innovators in India.

In order to foster entrepreneurial talent, the program provides students with a special combination of education, mentoring, and recognition.  In addition to receiving mentoring from prominent figures in the startup ecosystem and the business, participants can obtain the Entrepreneurship & Small Business (ESB) Certification from Pearson India and develop useful micro-credentials that are recognized across the country.  These components are intended to boost participants' profiles in the innovation and startup scene and expedite careers.

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Additionally, through Shark Tank-style pitching sessions for the best ideas, the program gives budding business owners practical chances to demonstrate their inventiveness.  Additionally, chosen innovators will be listed in India's first Problem Solver Directory, which will put them in direct contact with investors and incubators and pave the route for them to develop their ideas into profitable businesses.

The winning teams will get national media attention, incubation chances, and grants of up to ?10 lakhs.  Through student accomplishments, participating schools improve their NIRF standings, receive national recognition, and have the chance to organize regional qualifiers.

Srimathi Shivashankar, Corporate Vice President & Business Head – EdTech Services, HCLTech, said “ARISE FOR YOU™ isn’t just a competition—it’s a launchpad. It is about unlocking the dreams of students who have ideas but need the right platform. At HCLTech, we believe in channeling the power of youth through inclusive innovation, where skill meets opportunity and effort leads to recognition.”