slice Small Finance Bank (slice SFB) has extended support to early-stage startups at IIT Guwahati, strengthening Assam’s growing startup and innovation ecosystem. As part of its continued engagement with young founders, the bank awarded non-dilutive startup grants to two ventures—Picapool and ImpactWeaver—during Disrupt, the startup pitching platform of UDGAM, the annual entrepreneurship festival organised by the Entrepreneurship Cell of IIT Guwahati.
The selected startups were recognised for developing technology-driven solutions addressing real-world challenges. Picapool is building a collaborative commerce platform that allows users with similar purchasing needs to pool demand and access better prices. ImpactWeaver, an Assam-based venture, focuses on creating technology-led solutions and partnerships to improve social impact and the effectiveness of social investments in the region.
slice said its participation at UDGAM reflects its strategy of engaging early with academic institutions, particularly in the Northeast, to help convert campus ideas into viable ventures. Addressing students and founders, slice Chief Technology Officer Nitin Basant highlighted the importance of early capital, mentorship, and ecosystem access for young entrepreneurs. The initiative coincides with slice completing one year since its merger with North East Small Finance Bank. The bank has entered its second year as slice SFB and plans to open Assam’s first digital bank branch in Guwahati, underlining its long-term commitment to the region. Guwahati is fast emerging as a key startup and fintech hub in the Northeast, driven by increasing digital adoption, a young talent pool, and growing institutional support. Initiatives like slice’s early-stage backing are expected to encourage more local entrepreneurs, strengthen access to capital, and boost confidence in the city’s startup-friendly business environment.