HCLTech partners with Pearson, MeitY to launch a national student entrepreneurship drive

HCL Technologies on Wednesday has launched ARISE FOR YOU, a national student entrepreneurship initiative in partnership with Pearson India and MeitY Startup Hub. 

The program aims to engage over 1.5 lakh students across 3000 campuses nationwide.

The initiative will conclude with a national finale on March 12-13, 2026, where winners will receive grants of up to ₹10 lakhs, along with incubation opportunities and national media coverage. 

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Students can register via www.ariseforyou.com, complete Pearson’s Entrepreneurship and Small Business certification program, and submit their startup ideas for evaluation.

ARISE FOR YOU™ aims to nurture entrepreneurship in Tier 2 and Tier 3 cities, supporting India’s Viksit Bharat Mission. 

The program is powered by MeitY Startup Hub, which provides mentorship through its 62+ innovation hubs, and Pearson India, which offers the Entrepreneurship and Small Business (ESB) certification along with learning content. Thought Pencil manages marketing and outreach.

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Participants will benefit from industry mentorship, micro-credentials, and Shark Tank-style pitch opportunities. The initiative also introduces India’s first Problem Solver Directory, designed to connect student entrepreneurs with investors and incubators.

Participating institutions will gain national recognition and may see improvements in their NIRF rankings. The top 30 entries from regional qualifiers will advance to the grand finale.