Six youth-led startups were recognised as winners of the 8th edition of the Youth Co:Lab National Innovation Challenge 2026 at an award ceremony held at T-Hub, Hyderabad. The startups developed innovative solutions promoting sustainability across three thematic areas: sustainable textiles and fashion, innovation in circular economy, and sustainable food systems and water conservation. The challenge is jointly led by UNDP India and Citi Foundation, in partnership with NITI Aayog's Atal Innovation Mission (AIM), and implemented by T-Hub Foundation. This year the competition received over 350 applications from youth-led startups across 28 states. After a rigorous selection process, 50 high-potential startups were enrolled in a three-month virtual National Springboard Programme supported by 16 industry mentors and sector experts. All 50 startups pitched before a jury at the National Innovation Dialogue on 4 June 2026, after which the top 20 attended a five-day Regional Immersion Bootcamp at T-Hub, Hyderabad, from 15 to 19 June 2026. Following final jury evaluation on 18 June 2026, six startups were selected for their high-impact solutions. The three winners each received a seed grant of Rs 3,50,000 along with capacity-building support, while the three runners-up each received Rs 2,20,000. The winners were Navprayog Labs LLP (GraSip), Unbubble, and EcoRenova Solutions Pvt Ltd. Youth Co:Lab, founded in 2017 by UNDP and Citi Foundation, aims to empower and invest in youth to accelerate progress towards the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs).