Tag Archive for: AIC-Sangam

,

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

AIC-Sangam Innovation Foundation

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.