The three-month Business Accelerator Programme 2025, jointly organized by Startup Nagaland, Department of Industries & Commerce, Government of Nagaland in collaboration with Bulletproof successfully concluded on August 22 with the formal graduation of participating startups at the Director’s Conference Hall, Department of Industries & Commerce, Kohima.
This Accelerator Programme marked a milestone in Nagaland’s entrepreneurial ecosystem as one of the first structured acceleration initiatives designed to support early-stage ventures in the state. Over the past three months, the selected startups participated in an intensive programme combining workshops, masterclasses, and one-on-one mentorship. The initiative focused on equipping entrepreneurs with strategic clarity, practical business tools, and a growth-oriented mindset necessary to scale their ventures in competitive markets.
Throughout the programme, participating entrepreneurs benefitted from rigorous sessions and personalized coaching that helped them refine their business models, sharpen their value propositions, and adopt sustainable approaches to growth. The accelerator placed a strong emphasis on resilience, innovation, and problem-solving-qualities essential for building ventures that can create long-term impact in Nagaland and beyond.
Under the mentorship of Nikhil V Kumar, founder of Bulletproof Teams and a seasoned business growth consultant, who served as the Coach and Master Trainer, startups were guided through a structured growth pathway. His mentorship addressed critical challenges while inspiring participants to explore new opportunities with confidence and strategic direction.
The graduation ceremony was attended by officials from Startup Nagaland and the Department of Industries & Commerce. Certificates of completion were awarded by T Lemon Wangsha, Additional Director, Department of Industries & Commerce, Government of Nagaland, in the presence of Keneirienuo T Zatsu, Team Leader, Startup Nagaland & Deputy Director, Department of Industries & Commerce, who delivered the opening remarks.
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The event also witnessed the presence of Ikheshe Kahoto, Assistant Director, Department of Industries & Commerce, and Nikhil V Kumar, who was instrumental in guiding the cohort throughout the three-month accelerator journey.
Speaking on behalf of the graduating startups, Akiebu Shaza Liezietsu expressed gratitude to the Department, Startup Nagaland, and all those who made the programm success. He reflected on the valuable lessons learned during the journey and thanked the mentors and organizers for their support in helping the cohort grow as entrepreneurs.
Nikhil V Kumar also shared his gratitude, extending special thanks to the Department of Industries & Commerce and Startup Nagaland for their trust and collaboration. In his remarks, he encouraged the graduates to view this milestone not as the end but as the beginning of their entrepreneurial journeys, reminding them that while the 90-day accelerator has concluded, their business journey is only just starting.
In her address, the Additional Director congratulated the graduating entrepreneurs knowledging their efforts and encouraging them to carry forward the knowledge a skills acquired through the programme.
The presence of senior officials and mentors underscored the collective commitment to nurturing a strong startup ecosystem in the state
The successful culmination of the accelerator reflects the Government of Nagaland’s vision of building a vibrant entrepreneurial landscape through Startup Nagaland. By providing access to structured mentorship, knowledge, and resources, the programme has laid the foundation for strengthening entrepreneurship and innovation in the region. The participating startups, having completed this intensive journey, are now better positioned to pursue growth, create employment, and contribute to the sustainable economic development of Nagaland.
This initiative reaffirms Startup Nagaland’s Mission to empower entrepreneurs, foster innovation and provide platforms that enable local ventures to thrive in competitive markets.
The three-month business accelerator program 2025 stands as a testament to the State’s commitment to creating opportunities for its youth and building and ecosystem that supports innovation driven growth.
