COEP Technological University to Host Pune Startup Fest: A National Nexus for Entrepreneurial Excellence
Shivajinagar, 14th January 2026: COEP TECHNOLOGICAL UNIVERSITY, PUNE – Standing as a pioneer of technical education and innovation, COEP Technological University is set to unveil the eighth edition of its flagship event, the Pune Startup Fest (PSF’26). Scheduled for January 17 and 18, 2026, this preeminent student-led festival continues to elevate the standards of India’s startup ecosystem, fostering a culture of high-stakes entrepreneurship and strategic investment.
Presented by Vivicta as the Title Sponsor and powered by ONGC, PSF’26 serves as a prestigious confluence for startups, venture capitalists, and industry leaders. The event is meticulously curated to bridge the gap between academic brilliance and market reality, providing a high-octane platform for collaboration, funding opportunities, and high-level knowledge exchange.
Strategic Arenas and Innovation Hubs
The 2026 edition introduces an array of elite segments designed to test the resilience of today’s startup leaders.
Pitcher’s Valley: This signature live pitching arena offers select founders the rare opportunity to engage in direct dialogue with tier-one investors, facilitating crucial capital infusion.
Startup Board Room: An exclusive boardroom-style forum where founders engage in candid, face-to-face strategy sessions with seasoned entrepreneurs, mentors and investors to refine vision, validate models and unlock growth insights.
B-Plan: A flagship business plan challenge where startups compete by presenting structured, investor-ready strategies – evaluated on innovation, market potential and execution for funding, mentorship and ecosystem recognition.
Lightning Pitch: A test of cognitive agility and market command, this rapid-fire format demands clarity and speed from entrepreneurs seeking to prove their business viability.
Defence Expo & AI Summit: Reflecting COEP’s commitment to national progress, these specialized summits will explore the frontiers of emerging technology and sustainability, featuring insights from experts at the top of their fields.
The Launchpad & Internship Fair: A comprehensive showcase for new ventures to gain public visibility while simultaneously connecting students with career-defining roles within the startup ecosystem.
A Vision for Global Leadership
As PSF’26 enters its eighth year, it has transitioned from a local gathering into a significant national landmark. The fest is not merely an event but a strategic incubator for the next generation of Indian unicorns. By integrating expert-led discussions and intensive workshops, PSF’26 empowers young innovators to navigate the complexities of the global market.
With its eyes set on becoming a national platform, the Pune Startup Fest continues to champion COEP’s legacy, further cementing Pune’s status as a formidable international hub for technology and entrepreneurship.
