Apply for Seed Fund Incubator at ACIC GIET University Foundation

Introduction

In India’s rapidly evolving startup landscape, innovation is no longer limited to metros or tech hubs — it’s thriving in every corner of the country. One such catalyst driving this transformation in Eastern India is the Atal Community Innovation Centre (ACIC) – GIET University Foundation, based in Gunupur, Odisha.

The centre is designed to empower grassroots innovators, students, and local entrepreneurs by providing them with access to mentorship, incubation support, and crucial early-stage funding through the Startup India Seed Fund Scheme (SISFS).

In this article, we’ll explore how the ACIC GIET University Foundation is nurturing inclusive entrepreneurship, promoting regional innovation, and providing a clear step-by-step guide on how to apply for the Seed Fund Incubator program.

About ACIC GIET University Foundation

The ACIC GIET University Foundation was established under the Atal Innovation Mission (AIM), NITI Aayog, Government of India. The centre operates as a community innovation hub, fostering entrepreneurial thinking among students, rural innovators, and startups.

Unlike traditional incubators focused mainly on tech startups, ACIC GIET emphasizes social impact innovation — solving local and regional challenges through sustainable, technology-driven solutions.

Located within the GIET University campus, the centre leverages the institution’s strong academic, research, and technical ecosystem to support innovators across domains such as agriculture, renewable energy, healthcare, education, and social inclusion.

Vision and Mission

Vision

To build a thriving community-driven innovation ecosystem that empowers rural and urban entrepreneurs to solve India’s most pressing social and economic challenges.

Mission

To nurture creative problem-solvers into successful entrepreneurs.
To support early-stage startups with funding, infrastructure, and mentorship.
To build local innovation capacity through training and education.
To promote inclusive growth by supporting women, youth, and rural innovators.
To connect local talent with national and global innovation ecosystems.

ACIC GIET University Foundation acts as a bridge — connecting grassroots innovation with industry, academia, and investors to ensure holistic entrepreneurial development.

Objectives

The primary objectives of ACIC GIET University Foundation align with the Atal Innovation Mission’s goal of democratizing entrepreneurship across India.

Encourage Local Entrepreneurship: Empower innovators from rural and semi-urban areas to create impact-driven startups.
Provide Seed Funding: Support the early stages of startup development through financial assistance and incubation support.
Facilitate Capacity Building: Conduct workshops, bootcamps, and training sessions to enhance entrepreneurial skills.
Promote Technology for Good: Encourage innovation in fields like agriculture, clean energy, and healthcare for sustainable development.
Build Collaborative Networks: Connect startups with investors, corporates, and government bodies for scale-up opportunities.

By focusing on community-based innovation, ACIC GIET ensures that entrepreneurship becomes a powerful tool for regional progress.

Focus Areas

ACIC GIET University Foundation supports startups and innovators across diverse sectors, emphasizing technologies that have strong societal impact and scalability.

1. Agritech and Rural Innovation

Supporting innovations that enhance crop productivity, reduce post-harvest losses, and improve farmers’ livelihoods through technology integration.

2. Renewable Energy and CleanTech

Encouraging startups that create affordable, sustainable solutions in solar energy, waste management, and clean water technologies.

3. Healthcare and Biotechnology

Fostering innovations in telemedicine, diagnostics, medical devices, and affordable healthcare delivery models.

4. EdTech and Skill Development

Empowering startups focused on digital learning, vocational training, and employability solutions for rural youth.

5. Women and Social Entrepreneurship

Promoting women-led ventures and startups that address gender equality, community development, and social welfare.

By working within these focus sectors, ACIC GIET aims to make innovation accessible and impactful at the community level.

Seed Fund Incubator Program at ACIC GIET University Foundation

The Seed Fund Incubator Program at ACIC GIET University Foundation is a flagship initiative that provides startups with the critical financial support needed to validate, prototype, and commercialize their innovations.

This program is implemented under the Startup India Seed Fund Scheme (SISFS), launched by the Department for Promotion of Industry and Internal Trade (DPIIT).

Program Objectives

To provide early-stage capital for proof of concept and prototype development.
To promote technology-led solutions that address social and economic challenges.
To build self-sustaining, impact-oriented startups in Tier II and Tier III regions.

Funding Support

Grant (up to ₹20 Lakhs) for idea validation, prototype, and product development.
Equity/Convertible Debt (up to ₹50 Lakhs) for market entry, commercialization, or scaling.

In addition to funding, selected startups gain access to mentorship, infrastructure, and visibility through ACIC’s network of academia, corporates, and investors.

Programs and Initiatives

ACIC GIET University Foundation conducts several initiatives designed to strengthen the innovation and entrepreneurship ecosystem in Odisha and beyond.

1. Pre-Incubation Program

For ideators and students looking to validate their ideas and build early prototypes.

Ideation bootcamps
Business model development workshops
Technology feasibility analysis

2. Incubation Program

For startups that have developed prototypes and are ready to build a business model.

Product refinement and testing
IP and patent filing support
Market access and funding guidance

3. Acceleration Program

For growth-stage startups looking to scale and expand their market reach.

Investor readiness sessions
Market linkages and partnerships
Pitching to angel investors and VCs

These programs are complemented by mentorship networks, demo days, and corporate connect sessions that provide startups the exposure they need.

Eligibility Criteria

To apply for the Seed Fund Incubator at ACIC GIET University Foundation, startups must meet the following criteria:

DPIIT Recognition: Startup must be registered and recognized under the Startup India initiative.
Stage of Startup: Should be in the early stage — from idea validation to prototype or pre-revenue phase.
Innovation Focus: The startup must work on a product, process, or service that is innovative and technology-based.
Funding History: Must not have received more than ₹10 Lakhs in grants from any other central or state government scheme.
Location Preference: Startups from Odisha and Eastern India are encouraged, though the program is open nationwide.

Innovations solving local community problems or led by women entrepreneurs are given special preference.

Application Process: How to Apply for Seed Fund Incubator at ACIC GIET University Foundation

Applying for the ACIC GIET University Foundation’s Seed Fund Program is a fully online process. Here’s how you can apply:

Step 1: Visit the Portal

Go to the official website of Startup India Seed Fund Scheme (SISFS) or ACIC GIET University Foundation’s incubation page.

Step 2: Register Your Startup

Step 3: Choose ACIC GIET University Foundation

In the list of eligible incubators, select ACIC GIET University Foundation as your preferred incubator.

Step 4: Submit Your Proposal

Upload your pitch deck, business plan, and details such as:

Problem and proposed solution
Technology or innovation overview
Target market and impact potential
Business and revenue model
Financial projections

Step 5: Evaluation and Shortlisting

Applications are screened based on innovation, market viability, social impact, and team capabilities.

Step 6: Pitch and Selection

Shortlisted applicants are invited to pitch before the evaluation committee, which includes mentors, investors, and domain experts.

Step 7: Onboarding and Mentorship

Once selected, startups are officially onboarded into the incubation program and provided access to funds, labs, mentors, and training sessions.

Mentorship and Support Ecosystem

At the heart of ACIC GIET’s success lies its strong mentorship network — comprising academicians, industry leaders, investors, and startup founders.

Startups receive continuous guidance on:

Product development and scaling
Business strategy and marketing
Legal and financial compliance
Investor pitch preparation

The incubator also partners with government departments, venture funds, and corporates, creating a supportive environment where startups can test, pilot, and deploy their solutions.

Infrastructure and Facilities

ACIC GIET University Foundation offers world-class infrastructure designed for innovators and startups:

Co-working spaces with high-speed internet and office support.
Fabrication and prototyping labs for developing products.
Conference rooms and training halls for meetings and events.
Access to university research labs and technical resources.
Networking lounges and demo zones for product showcases.

The innovation hub also provides IP facilitation, branding support, and market linkage assistance to help startups reach commercialization faster.

Impact and Achievements

Since its establishment, the ACIC GIET University Foundation has incubated numerous startups across diverse domains.

Some key highlights include:

Empowering rural youth to become first-generation entrepreneurs.
Supporting women-led startups in social impact sectors.
Launching agripreneurship initiatives to strengthen rural economies.
Organizing innovation challenges to crowdsource solutions for local problems.

By integrating academia, industry, and community, ACIC GIET has emerged as a regional hub for inclusive innovation.

Why Choose ACIC GIET University Foundation?

✅ Located in one of Eastern India’s top innovation ecosystems.
✅ Backed by Atal Innovation Mission, NITI Aayog.
✅ Provides both seed funding and incubation support.
✅ Strong emphasis on social and grassroots innovation.
✅ Access to mentors, industry experts, and investors.
✅ Dedicated programs for students, women, and rural innovators.

ACIC GIET University Foundation is not just an incubator — it’s a platform for turning community challenges into opportunities for change.

Future Vision

Looking ahead, ACIC GIET University Foundation plans to expand its reach and strengthen its role in India’s innovation ecosystem through:

Collaboration with global accelerators and investors.
Development of sector-specific innovation clusters.
Launch of innovation fellowship programs for youth.
Building a network of community innovation hubs across Odisha.
Promoting sustainability-driven entrepreneurship at scale.

Conclusion

The ACIC GIET University Foundation is a shining example of how innovation can transform lives when rooted in community empowerment and inclusivity.

By providing access to seed funding, infrastructure, and expert mentorship, it ensures that innovators from every background have the opportunity to succeed.

If you have a solution that addresses real-world problems and are ready to make an impact — this is your chance.

Apply for the Seed Fund Incubator at ACIC GIET University Foundation today and turn your idea into a sustainable enterprise. 🚀

How to Apply for Seed Fund Incubator at ACIC GIET University Foundation

Introduction

About ACIC GIET University Foundation