IIMA Ventures, in partnership with SAP, has officially launched the North East Growth Lab (NEGL)—an ambitious platform set to accelerate 90 startups and social enterprises across all eight northeastern states. Modeled on the success of the World Bank-supported Assam Agribusiness Growth Lab (AAGL), NEGL will offer catalytic capital (grants and optionally convertible debt), mentorship, business training, and critical market access.
Over the next three years, NEGL aims to generate ₹100 crore in enterprise value and positively impact over 5 lakh individuals, especially from low- and middle-income segments. The initiative also includes ecosystem-building events such as startup outreach, bootcamps, and investment-focused demo days.
The capital of Mizoram, the startup buzz is catching on. With a growing number of youth-led ventures focused on eco-friendly products, food processing, and handmade goods. NEGL’s entry is expected to offer structured support to these startups, helping them scale and connect with larger markets. Partners like NABARD, NEDFI, NEHHDC, NERAMAC, and the Ministry of DoNER will further reinforce NEGL’s impact across the region.