Empresario, the Annual Startup Summit is an exclusive platform that brings together startups, entrepreneurs, industry experts, investors and the student community to exchange ideas, share entrepreneurial experiences and gain valuable insights into building sustainable enterprises. Initiated in 2012, Empresario is a first-of-its-kind platform that has grown to become one of the largest entrepreneurship gatherings for entrepreneurs and innovators. EDII organized Empresario 2026 during March 12-14, 2026. The three-day Startup Summit was the 15th Annual Flagship Event on the theme – ‘NextGen Youth Innovators’.
An exhibition was also organized at EDII campus to showcase the innovative ideas of over 45 startups including EDII’s Technology Business Incubator’s (CrAdLE) Startups, EDII Alumni & Students and programme beneficiaries. Additionally, the summit also included a pitching round aimed at garnering investments for viable ideas. More than 65 startups and students pitched their products and services in front of investors.
As a part of the summit, the institute conducted Tech Business Idea Pitch (BIP) Competition (regional rounds) across multiple states including Delhi, Maharashtra, Uttarakhand, Odisha, Goa, Assam, Punjab, Tamil Nadu, Madhya Pradesh, Rajasthan, and Gujarat. These programmes witnessed participation from over 800 students, out of which 125 young innovators were selected to present their startup ideas in front of the investor panel in the final round at EDII, in the BIG PITCH round during the Summit. 27 teams were awarded across Platinum, Gold and Silver categories awards. The summit facilitated networking opportunities among startups, students, mentors and industry stakeholders, alongside cultural and engagement activities like Talent Show and musical event.
