9 Startups secure Rs. 1 cr under SISFS initiative

Nine startups from Nagaland have received Rs.1 crore in seed funding under the Startup India Seed Fund Scheme (SISFS), facilitated by YouthNet Incubation Centre (YIC). The funding ceremony was held at YouthNet Dimapur Office on June 17.
Speaking at the event, advisor for Industries & Commerce, Hekani Jakhalu, emphasized that the government supports only high-performing startups, urging entrepreneurs to create success stories that build trust with financial institutions.
The selected startups included founders from remote districts and entrepreneurs with disabilities, with funding aimed at supporting prototype development, market entry, and commercialization. The startups that secured funding are Naga Feather, Ura Agritech, Shihto Integrated Farm, Global Connect Music and Films, Tsongyam Innovations, Craftycrochet, Headhunter Leather Crafting, Peter and Cecilia Essence, and Nexuscipherguard India.
YouthNet director, Nuneseno Chase, praised the startups for their courage and commitment, reminding them that they represent the hopes of a new Nagaland built on local talent, global ambition, and self-reliance.
Startup Nagaland Team leader and deputy director at the Directorate of Industries & Commerce, Keneirienuo K. Theunuo, announced that a revised Startup Nagaland policy would soon be introduced to support entrepreneurs. She noted a 200% rise in startup registrations, making it the highest in India.
YouthNet associate director, Neikepekho Shosahie, explained that SISFS follows a milestone-based funding model, where funds are released in tranches based on progress, ensuring accountability.
Mentors at YouthNet Incubation Centre, including Yanpvuo Kikon (Kikonic & Kley Enterprise), Dr. Ditalak Mpanme (Nagaland University), and Lanu Akum Imchen (Cloud Mountain), encouraged startups to think long-term, maintain high standards, and embrace global markets.
The SISFS initiative, led by Startup India under DPIIT, aims to close early-stage funding gaps through transparent, milestone-based disbursement via approved incubators.