Zepto has revealed the first cohort of eight startups chosen under Zepto Nova, an innovation initiative launched in collaboration with the Department for Promotion of Industry and Internal Trade (DPIIT), Ministry of Commerce and Industry.

The programme aims to support Indian startups by providing market access, discoverability, and logistics support through Zepto’s hyperlocal quick-commerce network.

The inaugural edition received 49 applications from across India, of which 25 were shortlisted for a final pitch round. Following a two-day evaluation process, eight startups were selected for onboarding.

The chosen cohort covers sectors including food and beverages, sustainable energy, toys and learning, and consumer brands. Selected startups include Milleto Nutto, Aloe Ecell, Flavours of Calicut, Thy Chocolate, No Cap Foods, Nesta Toys, Watch Out, and Makerverse.

Several startups in the cohort are women-led and first-generation ventures, reflecting the diversity of India’s startup ecosystem. Aloe Ecell is developing an aloe-vera-based battery, Flavours of Calicut aims to build a national Kerala snack brand, and Thy Chocolate focuses on artisanal bean-to-bar chocolates.

Vinay Dhanani, President – Supply Chain and Category, Zepto and Jury Member of Zepto Nova, added, “India’s startup ecosystem is brimming with innovation, and at Zepto, we intend to be enablers of this growth. Zepto Nova was created with an aim to help promising startups break access barriers and reach Zepto users at scale through our hyperlocal network. By enabling these founders with go-to-market opportunities and visibility, we aim to play a meaningful role in supporting homegrown brands for the future.”

Following the first edition, Zepto plans to announce Season 2 of Zepto Nova in February 2026.

Founded in 2020 by Aadit Palicha and Kaivalya Vohra, Zepto is an Indian quick commerce platform using technology and delivery hubs to offer local delivery across groceries, electronics, beauty, apparel, toys, essentials, and Zepto Café.