How to Apply for Seed Fund Incubator at AIC-Sangam

Introduction

Climate change, resource scarcity, and energy access challenges are increasing across India. Clean-tech startups that tackle these issues face hurdles such as early-stage funding, lab infrastructure, prototyping, and mentorship tailored to climate impact.

The Atal Incubation Centre Sangam (AIC-Sangam Innovation Foundation), based in Gurugram, is India’s first fully dedicated clean-tech incubator. It supports startups improving energy access, resource productivity, and sustainability, especially for underserved communities. Whether your idea is at the ideation stage or you have a bench-top prototype, AIC-Sangam offers seed funding under the Startup India Seed Fund Scheme (SISFS), incubation infrastructure, mentorship, and network support.

This guide explains how to apply for seed fund incubation at AIC-Sangam, including eligibility, application process, funding details, and tips to strengthen your chances.

What is AIC-Sangam Innovation Foundation?

Clean-Tech Focus

AIC-Sangam specializes in clean technology, sustainability, and climate innovation, supporting startups that create measurable environmental impact.

Mission & Scope

Their mission is to support STEM solutions that improve energy access and resource efficiency for underserved populations, helping communities adapt to climate challenges.

Facilities & Infrastructure

Co-working spaces
Prototyping lab
Physical incubation zones
Event & networking infrastructure

Programs & Support

Incubation for clean-tech startups
Seed funding under SISFS
Innovation challenges, e.g., decarbonization
Mentorship from clean-tech experts, policy guidance, and investor connections

Key Offerings & Support

Startup India Seed Fund Scheme (SISFS)

AIC-Sangam, as a partner incubator under SISFS, provides financial assistance for proof-of-concept, prototype development, market entry, and commercialization.

Physical Incubation & Infrastructure

Lab and prototyping facilities
Bench-top prototyping access
Workspace and meeting rooms
Event and networking spaces

Mentorship & Community Support

Clean-tech experts, engineers, and mentors
Guidance on policy, regulatory compliance, and investor connections
Innovation challenges to identify high-potential solutions

Clean-Tech / Climate Focus

Startups aligned with decarbonization, energy access, sustainable resource use, and efficiency improvements are prioritized.

Eligibility Criteria

Startup working in clean-tech, sustainability, or climate innovation
Age: less than 5 years from incorporation or at ideation stage
Stage: ideation to prototype, preferably bench-top prototype or proof-of-concept
Team size: preferably under 10 members
Commitment to physical incubation at Sangam if required
Legal status: registered or pre-registered entity (Private Limited, LLP, etc.)

Application Process

Step 1: Visit AIC-Sangam Website

Go to “Incubation Program” or “Apply Now / SISFS” pages

Step 2: Create Startup Identity & Prepare Documents

Obtain legal status: Private Limited / LLP
Register with Startup India / DPIIT if needed
Prepare team profiles, prototype or POC, pitch deck, business model, and market analysis

Step 3: Fill Application Form

Include: startup overview, problem & solution, impact potential, development stage, funding requirement, and usage plan

Step 4: Submit Supporting Documents

Certificate of Incorporation
DPIIT / Startup India recognition
Pitch deck or prototype demo
Founders’ CVs / team profiles

Step 5: Screening & Pitch / Evaluation

Applications are screened for eligibility
Shortlisted startups invited for a pitch to mentors / selection committee

Step 6: Approval & Onboarding

Successful companies are onboarded
Sign MoU / agreements covering funding, incubation support, mentorship, and infrastructure

Step 7: Fund Disbursement

Funding under SISFS is tranche-based, tied to milestones such as prototype completion, pilot, or early commercialization

Step 8: Ongoing Support

Mentorship, lab/prototyping support, network connections, regulatory/compliance assistance

Funding Details

Funding depends on the scheme and evaluation
Typically grant or mixed (grant + convertible instrument)
Disbursed in phases based on milestones

Tips to Strengthen Your Application

Emphasize climate & sustainability impact
Showcase prototype or POC
Highlight a strong, experienced team
Define use of funds and milestones clearly
Demonstrate regulatory & technical feasibility
Articulate scalability and underserved impact

Conclusion

AIC-Sangam Innovation Foundation is a compelling platform for clean-tech and sustainability startups to access seed funding, incubation, and specialized support. By aligning your idea with Sangam’s clean-tech focus, preparing a prototype, assembling documentation, and presenting a compelling pitch, you can maximize your chances of selection, secure funding, and transform your innovation into impact.

How to Apply for Seed Fund Incubator at AIC-Sangam Innovation Foundation

Introduction