The Madhya Pradesh Startup Summit 2026 kicked off with a powerful keynote from Chief Minister Mohan Yadav, who positioned India’s scientific legacy as the bedrock for its startup revolution. ‘Startups are the muscle of our nation,’ he proclaimed, painting a vivid picture of how ancient innovations continue to inspire today’s disruptors.
Held in Bhopal, the summit drew over 5,000 attendees, including venture capitalists, mentors, and budding entrepreneurs. Yadav traced India’s contributions to mathematics, astronomy, and medicine – from Aryabhata’s heliocentric model to Sushruta’s surgical techniques. These weren’t mere anecdotes; they served as a rallying cry for modern founders to innovate without limits.
Detailing state-level strides, the CM revealed MP’s ecosystem has attracted Rs 2,000 crore in investments since 2023. New measures include single-window clearances, skill development hubs, and international tie-ups with Silicon Valley accelerators. ‘We’re building bridges from Bhopal to the world,’ Yadav said, unveiling the ‘MP Startup Express’ – a fast-track program for 100 high-potential ventures.
Interactive sessions featured success stories from MP unicorns in fintech and edtech, alongside workshops on AI and sustainability. The day ended with a startup showcase, where 50 pitches vied for angel funding. Yadav’s vision? Transform MP into India’s third-largest startup state, rivaling Maharashtra and Karnataka, by harnessing its vast talent pool and policy agility.