The programme focuses on innovation across jewellery manufacturing, retail, supply chain, sustainability, design and digital transformation. Applications for the challenge opened on 25 May 2026, with the final cohort expected to be announced in August 2026 after a structured five-stage evaluation process.
For an industry deeply rooted in traditional skills, technology adoption is opening new possibilities. From improving manufacturing efficiency to enabling smarter design workflows, the role of digital tools, automation and artificial intelligence is becoming increasingly important across the jewellery value chain.
Through JewelStart, GJEPC aims to bring technology innovators closer to jewellery businesses. The platform is designed to help startups develop solutions that can be practically implemented by manufacturers, exporters, retailers and other industry stakeholders.
The initiative focuses on how emerging technologies can improve different stages of jewellery production and business operations. These include smarter factory monitoring, AI-based inventory management, automation in processes such as stone setting, polishing and finishing, sustainable production methods, faster prototyping, AI-powered quality checks and digital design tools.
The launch of JewelStart reflects a larger industry shift, where traditional jewellery-making processes are gradually integrating with advanced technologies. AI-led design tools, smart manufacturing systems and automated quality-control solutions are expected to help businesses improve accuracy, reduce production time and offer more customised jewellery experiences.
Speaking about the initiative, Kirit Bhansali, Chairman, GJEPC, said the next phase of growth for the sector will be driven by innovation and technology. He added that JewelStart aims to create a long-term pipeline of startups that can shape the future of jewellery manufacturing, design and commerce.
JewelStart is not limited to companies already operating in the jewellery sector. Startups from fields such as artificial intelligence, IoT, robotics, fintech, logistics and sustainability technology are also encouraged to participate, provided their solutions can address the needs of the gems and jewellery industry.
The programme is open to registered Indian startups with Technology Readiness Level 4 and above. Each participating startup must have at least one full-time founder who is an Indian citizen. There is no application fee for the challenge.
Selected startups will receive mentorship from industry experts, access to the SINE, IIT Bombay incubation ecosystem and opportunities to collaborate with manufacturers, exporters and retailers through GJEPC’s network of more than 10,000 members.
The programme will also support pilot projects and connect promising startups with investors and funding opportunities, depending on their solutions and evaluation outcomes.
According to Shaunak Parikh, Vice Chairman, GJEPC, technology adoption in the gems and jewellery sector is still developing. He said that bringing startups closer to real industry challenges can help create scalable solutions for the future.
Five-Stage Innovation Journey
The JewelStart Industry Innovation Challenge will follow a structured selection process:
Phase 1: Applications open — 25 May 2026
Phase 2: Screening and shortlisting — till 22 June 2026
Phase 3: Virtual evaluation with expert jury — 20 July 2026
Phase 4: Physical industry showcase — August 2026
Phase 5: Final cohort announcement — August 2026
As India’s jewellery sector continues to evolve, technology is becoming a key part of how the industry designs, manufactures and delivers products. From AI-led design solutions to smarter production systems, initiatives like JewelStart highlight the growing role of innovation in shaping the industry’s next phase.
By bringing startups, technology experts and jewellery businesses onto one platform, JewelStart aims to create practical solutions that can strengthen India’s position in the global jewellery landscape.
