- ASCEND J&K 2026 concluded at the Sher-i-Kashmir International Convention Centre (SKICC), Srinagar, marking a significant milestone in strengthening the Union Territory’s innovation and entrepreneurship ecosystem.
- Two Srinagar-based startups secured investment commitments of up to ₹1 crore, reflecting growing confidence in the region's entrepreneurial ecosystem.
- EcoBuddy, founded by Muhammad Farukh Usman, received an investment commitment ranging from ₹75 lakh to ₹1 crore from LetsVenture for its technology-driven waste management and eco-friendly packaging solutions.
- Curve Electric secured funding support from Build3 Accelerator and angel investor Komal Nailwal, further boosting the startup investment landscape in Jammu and Kashmir.
- The summit featured 20 startups from Jammu and Kashmir pitching their ventures before 14 investors and investment networks, with seven startups shortlisted for further due diligence.
- The event was organized under the J&K Startup Policy, reaffirming the government's commitment to building a robust startup ecosystem that promotes innovation and generates employment opportunities.
The ASCEND J&K 2026 summit, held at the Sher-i-Kashmir International Convention Centre, marked a pivotal moment for Jammu and Kashmir's startup ecosystem.1
Two startups, EcoBuddy and Curve Electric, secured investment commitments totaling ₹1 crore, showcasing the region's growing entrepreneurial spirit.34
EcoBuddy, founded by Muhammad Farukh Usman, received ₹75 lakh to ₹1 crore from LetsVenture for its innovative waste management solutions.
Curve Electric also gained funding support from Build3 Accelerator and angel investor Komal Nailwal, further enhancing the investment landscape.
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The summit featured 20 startups pitching to 14 investors, with seven startups shortlisted for further evaluation, paving the way for potential funding and strategic partnerships.5
Notably, the event included a masterclass on investment readiness led by investor Shanti Mohan, who provided insights on fundraising strategies and effective pitching.
Organized by the Jammu and Kashmir Entrepreneurship Development Institute, the summit aimed to strengthen the innovation ecosystem and attract private investment, ultimately generating employment opportunities in the region.
Chief Minister Omar Abdullah inaugurated the summit, emphasizing the need for a new era of innovation and entrepreneurship in Jammu and Kashmir.
“EcoBuddy, a tech-driven waste management startup, secured ₹75 lakh to ₹1 crore from LetsVenture; Curve Electric received support from Build3 Accelerator and angel investor Komal Nailwal. Seven other startups were shortlisted for further due diligence after pitching to 14 investors.”
