YouthNet Recognized as Finalist for Social Entrepreneur of the Year 2026

Kohima, India Aug 23, 2026 ALN: YouthNet, the first and largest youth development and social enterprise in the region, has been named one of five national finalists for the 17th Social Entrepreneur of the Year (SEOY) India 2026 Award. This recognition places YouthNet alongside some of the country’s most influential change-makers, highlighting its significant contributions to social entrepreneurship and youth empowerment in India.

The SEOY award, jointly presented by the Jubilant Bhartia Foundation (JBF) and the Schwab Foundation for Social Entrepreneurship, was announced at a prestigious ceremony in New Delhi. Nuneseno Chase, director and chief functionary of YouthNet, represented the organization among the five finalists recognized for driving youth-led development through education, livelihoods, entrepreneurship, and environmental sustainability initiatives across the northeast. The recognition is particularly noteworthy as it underscores the importance of innovative solutions to pressing social issues, especially in regions that face unique challenges.

This year’s SEOY award was awarded to Nidhi Pant, Co-Founder of S4S Technologies, who was honored for her groundbreaking biotechnology solutions that convert agricultural waste into eco-friendly products for smallholder women farmers. This recognition not only highlights the diversity of social entrepreneurship in India but also emphasizes the critical role of women in driving sustainable development. The other finalists, including Chase, were selected from a national pool for their work spanning various sectors, including healthcare, agriculture, disability-inclusive livelihoods, and youth empowerment, showcasing the breadth of social innovation taking place across the country.

Addressing the gathering, N.K. Singh, former Rajya Sabha member and chairman of the 15th Finance Commission, described the finalists as “people who have made a difference in their lives, transcending barriers to build a more wholesome society.” His remarks reflect the increasing recognition of social entrepreneurs as vital agents of change who are not only addressing immediate community needs but are also contributing to broader societal transformations. Singh called for greater support for innovation and risk-taking among change-makers, highlighting the need for a conducive ecosystem that nurtures social enterprises and their initiatives.

Dr. François Bonnici, director of the Schwab Foundation, emphasized that the finalists demonstrated how social entrepreneurship can tackle complex challenges through innovation and systems-level thinking. This perspective is crucial in understanding the multifaceted nature of social issues, where solutions often require collaborative approaches that engage various stakeholders. Aashti Bhartia, director of Jubilant Ingrevia, noted that the award aims to spotlight what is possible, highlighting that this year’s finalists exhibited conviction and resilience in their efforts to create lasting impact.

For YouthNet, this recognition affirms over 20 years of impactful work. Since its founding in 2006, the organization has evolved into the region’s leading incubator, supporting entrepreneurs, livelihoods, and NGOs across all eight northeastern states. Its programs focus on environmental education, entrepreneurship incubation, women’s economic empowerment, and the promotion of the Made in (MIN) brand, which aims to elevate local artisans and their crafts to a wider market. This holistic approach not only empowers individuals but also fosters community development and sustainability.

Speaking on the recognition, Nuneseno Chase stated, “This is not one person’s achievement. It belongs to every entrepreneur, artisan, and community YouthNet has walked alongside these past years.” This statement reflects the collaborative spirit that underpins YouthNet’s mission, emphasizing the collective effort involved in driving social change. The acknowledgment of the contributions of various stakeholders is vital in fostering a sense of ownership and responsibility within communities, encouraging further engagement in social entrepreneurship.

The SEOY India award, now in its 17th year, recognizes visionary leaders addressing societal challenges through innovative and inclusive approaches. The award provides visibility, mentorship, and networks to help awardees scale their impact further, which is crucial for social enterprises operating in challenging environments. For YouthNet, being recognized as a finalist not only enhances its credibility but also opens doors for potential partnerships and collaborations that can amplify its efforts.

YouthNet’s finalist recognition adds to a growing list of national milestones for the organization in 2026, reinforcing its emergence as a significant contributor to India’s social innovation landscape. As the organization continues to expand its reach and impact, it serves as an inspiring example of how targeted interventions can lead to meaningful change in the lives of young people and their communities. The recognition at the SEOY awards is a testament to the power of youth-led initiatives and the critical role they play in shaping a more equitable and sustainable future for all.