We are back with the 12th edition of The Economic Times Startup Awards. As we approach the main event, here are the nominees for the most coveted of the eight categories: Startup of the Year.The ET Startup of the Year will be characterised by breakthrough innovation, top-class execution and fast-paced growth. The quality of the founding and management team will be an important component in decision making.Here are the nominees:Company: PorterETtech
Pranav Goel and Uttam Digga, founders, PorterFounded in: 2014Founders: Uttam Digga and Pranav GoelBased in: BengaluruKey investors: Kedaara Capital, Wellington Management, Tiger GlobalWhat it does: Porter provides on-demand logistics services to small and medium enterprises for shorter distances, working with larger trucks along with smaller carriage vehicles for last mile delivery. It also operates as a marketplace connecting individual customers and small businesses to fleet operators.Company: Skyroot AerospaceETtech
Pawan Kumar Chandana and Naga Bharath Daka, founders, Skyroot AerospaceFounded in: 2018Founders: Pawan Kumar Chandana and Naga Bharath DakaBased in: HyderabadKey investors: GIC, Temasek, BlackRock, Arkam VenturesWhat it does: India’s first spacetech unicorn, Skyroot Aerospace is building rockets to provide dedicated, on-demand access to orbit for small satellite operators. Its Vikram-1 vehicle is India’s first privately developed rocket to successfully reach LEO inJuly 2026. The company is also developing the larger Vikram-2 for heavier satellites and working on a reusable rocket.Company: RapidoETtech
