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How to Apply for Seed Fund Incubator at AIC-CCRI

AIC-CCRI Seed Fund

Introduction

Launching a startup in India is exciting, but early-stage founders often face challenges like limited funding, mentorship gaps, and lack of infrastructure. A structured incubator can bridge this gap, providing the resources and guidance needed to scale.

The Atal Incubation Centre – Central Coffee Research Institute (AIC-CCRI), promoted by the Coffee Board of India, is a premier incubator for startups in coffee, agro-tech, food processing, and allied sectors. By offering seed funding, mentorship, infrastructure, and networking opportunities, AIC-CCRI empowers entrepreneurs to transform innovative ideas into sustainable businesses.

This guide will cover everything you need to know about applying for the AIC-CCRI Seed Fund, including eligibility, application steps, funding programs, tips for success, and real startup examples.

What is AIC-CCRI?

AIC-CCRI is a Technology Business Incubator (TBI) under the Atal Innovation Mission (AIM), NITI Aayog, in collaboration with the Coffee Board of India. The incubator focuses on nurturing startups in coffee cultivation, processing, value addition, and sustainable agro-tech solutions.

Key Objectives:

  • Foster Innovation in Coffee & Agro-Tech: Support innovative solutions in coffee production, processing, and sustainability.

  • Provide Seed Funding: Offer early-stage financial support to accelerate growth.

  • Mentorship & Advisory: Connect startups with agriculture, technology, and business experts.

  • Infrastructure & Lab Access: Access to labs, co-working spaces, and technical facilities.

  • Networking & Market Access: Facilitate connections with investors, industry partners, and coffee exporters.

Why Choose AIC-CCRI Seed Fund?

  • Sector-Focused Incubation: Coffee, agro-tech, food processing, and sustainability.

  • Zero-Cost Infrastructure: Labs, office spaces, and research facilities provided free for selected startups.

  • Equity-Free Seed Funding: Retain ownership while receiving funding.

  • Holistic Support: Mentorship, ecosystem networking, technical resources, and market access.

Seed Funding Programs at AIC-CCRI

  1. Startup India Seed Fund Scheme (SISFS)

    • Eligibility: Registered in India (Private Limited/LLP), early-stage, prototype-ready, incubated at recognized incubator, majority Indian ownership.

    • Funding: Up to ₹50 Lakhs, milestone-based disbursement.

    • Purpose: Product development, operational costs, market entry.

  2. AIC-CCRI In-House Seed Fund

    • Eligibility: Incubated at AIC-CCRI for at least 3 months, early-stage, scalable business model.

    • Funding: Up to ₹50 Lakhs, equity/debt/mix.

    • Requirements: Quarterly financial reporting, annual audits.

Eligibility Criteria

  • Incorporation: Private Limited Company or LLP registered in India.

  • Promoter Ownership: At least 51% Indian founders.

  • Stage: Early-stage startups with working MVP or validated prototype.

  • Sector Preference: Coffee, agro-tech, food processing, sustainable solutions.

  • Recognition: Ideally DPIIT-recognized.

Application Process

  1. Visit the Official Website: Explore incubation programs and funding details.

  2. Register Your Startup: Provide startup and founder information.

  3. Complete the Application Form: Include startup overview, problem-solution, market analysis, business model, financial projections, and team info.

  4. Submit Documents: Certificate of Incorporation, DPIIT recognition, pitch deck, financials, founders’ CVs.

  5. Selection Process: Screening → Pitch Presentation → Due Diligence → Onboarding into incubation program.

Tips for a Successful Application

  • Clearly articulate the problem-solution fit.

  • Showcase market understanding and potential scalability.

  • Highlight a strong, complementary founding team.

  • Present realistic financials and a fund utilization plan.

  • Prepare a compelling, clear, and visually appealing pitch deck.

Success Stories

  • CoffeeTech Solutions: Developed IoT-enabled coffee farming systems using seed funding and mentorship.

  • AgroFood Innovations: Launched value-added food products leveraging incubator resources.

  • Sustainable Packaging Startup: Prototyped eco-friendly coffee packaging with AIC-CCRI support.

Benefits Beyond Funding

  • Mentorship from industry leaders and agricultural experts.

  • Workshops, bootcamps, and training sessions.

  • Networking with investors, clients, and industry partners.

  • Validation of business ideas in a research-backed ecosystem.

  • Market exposure and partnership opportunities.

Conclusion

Applying for AIC-CCRI Seed Fund is a golden opportunity for early-stage startups in coffee, agro-tech, and food processing. With mentorship, funding, infrastructure, and a supportive ecosystem, entrepreneurs can transform innovative ideas into scalable businesses. By following the application steps and preparing a strong proposal, startups can maximize their chances of selection and success.