Zepto selects eight startups for manufacturing innovation programme

IPO-bound quick commerce firm Zepto has selected eight startups for the first cohort of its Zepto Nova innovation programme, which aims to provide market access and logistics support to early-stage manufacturers, the company said on Monday.

The startups, chosen from 49 applications, will gain access to Zepto’s delivery network and consumer base. The cohort includes companies working on products ranging from artisanal chocolates to aloe vera-based batteries.

Zepto Nova was launched under a partnership with the Department for Promotion of Industry and Internal Trade, a government body that supports startup development in India.

“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,” said Vinay Dhanani, president of supply chain and category at Zepto.

The selected startups include Milleto Nutto, Aloe Ecell, Flavours of Calicut, Thy Chocolates, No Cap Foods, Nesta Toys, Watch Out, and Makerverse. Aloe Ecell is developing battery technology based on aloe vera, while Flavours of Calicut produces Kerala snacks, and Thy Chocolates makes bean-to-bar chocolates. In August 2025, DPIIT signed a memorandum of understanding with Zepto to mentor manufacturing startups through the six-month programme, which focuses on hardware, IoT, packaging and sustainable manufacturing technologies.

The government agency has signed similar agreements with other companies. In July 2025, it partnered with Maruti Suzuki to support automotive technology startups, and separately with Hero MotoCorp to back ventures in mobility and clean technology. Zepto plans to launch the second edition of the programme in February 2026.