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How to Apply for Seed Fund Incubator at ACIC RISE Association

ACIC RISE ASSOCIATION

Introduction

India’s innovation and startup ecosystem is growing at an unprecedented pace. From bustling metros to smaller towns, a new generation of innovators is shaping solutions that are both locally relevant and globally scalable. At the heart of this movement are Atal Community Innovation Centres (ACICs) — an initiative by the Atal Innovation Mission (AIM), NITI Aayog, to nurture inclusive innovation across India.

One such dynamic hub is the ACIC RISE Association, located in Indore, Madhya Pradesh. Functioning under the Shri Govindram Seksaria Institute of Technology and Science (SGSITS), Indore — one of Central India’s most reputed engineering institutions — this incubator empowers entrepreneurs, researchers, and students to convert impactful ideas into successful enterprises.

Whether you are developing a rural innovation, a tech-based solution, or a social enterprise, ACIC RISE Association provides the ecosystem, mentorship, and funding needed to help your idea grow — from concept to company.

This comprehensive guide will help you understand what ACIC RISE stands for, its programs, eligibility, benefits, and a step-by-step process on how to apply for incubation or seed funding support.

About ACIC RISE Association

The ACIC RISE Association (Rural Innovation and Startup Ecosystem) is an officially recognized Atal Community Innovation Centre supported by the Atal Innovation Mission (AIM), NITI Aayog, Government of India.

Operating under SGSITS Indore, ACIC RISE plays a pivotal role in nurturing community-based and inclusive innovation. It focuses on enabling entrepreneurs from Tier-II and Tier-III cities, rural areas, and academic institutions — groups often underrepresented in mainstream startup ecosystems.

Its core mission is to bridge the gap between innovation and inclusion by creating a platform where creativity, technology, and community come together to drive sustainable growth.

Vision

“To build an inclusive and sustainable innovation ecosystem that promotes technology-driven entrepreneurship, supports youth-led ventures, and contributes to India’s socio-economic development.”

Mission

  • To identify, mentor, and scale startups addressing local and national challenges.

  • To empower students, innovators, and entrepreneurs with access to technology, mentorship, and funding.

  • To drive community-based innovation and strengthen rural entrepreneurship networks.

Key Focus Areas

ACIC RISE Association supports innovation across multiple domains that directly impact communities and industries alike. Its core focus sectors include:

  • 🌾 AgriTech and Food Processing

  • 🌞 Renewable Energy and Sustainability

  • 🧬 HealthTech and BioTech

  • 💧 Water Management and Sanitation

  • 🎓 Education and Skill Development (EdTech)

  • ⚙️ IoT, Robotics, and Automation

  • 🌍 Rural and Social Innovation

  • 👩‍💼 Women Entrepreneurship and Empowerment

These diverse focus areas ensure that the incubator remains at the intersection of technology, social impact, and sustainability — making it a true engine of inclusive innovation.

Why Choose ACIC RISE Association

Unlike traditional incubators that primarily serve urban entrepreneurs, ACIC RISE is built around the principle of community-driven innovation. It doesn’t just support startups — it creates ecosystems of collaboration, inclusion, and long-term impact.

Here’s what makes ACIC RISE a preferred choice for emerging innovators:

1️⃣ Institutional Strength and Academic Ecosystem

Being part of SGSITS Indore gives ACIC RISE access to advanced research labs, testing facilities, and a talent pool of professors, engineers, and students. This academic synergy helps startups validate technologies, develop prototypes, and collaborate on R&D.

2️⃣ Government Recognition and Policy Linkages

As a recognized ACIC under Atal Innovation Mission (AIM), the incubator connects startups with national-level funding schemes, policy support, and visibility through government innovation platforms.

3️⃣ Modern Infrastructure and Resources

Startups benefit from a vibrant innovation environment that includes:

  • Dedicated co-working spaces and startup offices

  • Product development and prototyping labs

  • IoT and robotics labs

  • 3D printing and fabrication units

  • High-speed internet, meeting rooms, and seminar halls

4️⃣ Expert Mentorship and Advisory

Each incubatee startup is guided by a curated panel of mentors — ranging from industry leaders and investors to policy experts and academicians. This multi-dimensional support ensures startups grow with technical validation, business acumen, and investor readiness.

5️⃣ Funding and Investor Access

ACIC RISE provides a launchpad to funding opportunities including:

  • AIM Grants (Atal Innovation Mission)

  • Startup India Seed Fund Scheme (SISFS)

  • MP Startup Policy & MSME Department Grants

  • Corporate CSR-based funding initiatives

  • Angel and venture capital networks

6️⃣ Collaboration and Community Building

Regularly hosting hackathons, bootcamps, demo days, and startup showcases, ACIC RISE creates spaces for startups to learn, network, and collaborate. These events bring together students, founders, corporates, and investors to accelerate innovation.

Who Can Apply for Incubation at ACIC RISE Association

ACIC RISE invites a diverse group of applicants from across India, including:

✅ Students, faculty, and alumni from technical or non-technical backgrounds
✅ Individual innovators with an idea, prototype, or proof of concept
✅ Registered startups or MSMEs developing technology-driven solutions
✅ Women entrepreneurs and social innovators
✅ Researchers and scientists aiming to commercialize lab-based inventions

Eligibility Criteria

  • The applicant must be an Indian citizen or a DPIIT-recognized startup.

  • The startup or idea should demonstrate innovation, sustainability, and impact.

  • Preference is given to ideas addressing rural, social, or local challenges.

  • Startups can be at idea, prototype, or early commercialization stages.

Programs at ACIC RISE Association

To cater to startups at different stages, ACIC RISE offers a range of structured programs:

1️⃣ Pre-Incubation Program

For innovators in the ideation or proof-of-concept phase.
Includes:

  • Ideation workshops and design-thinking sessions

  • Prototype development support

  • Business model and validation mentoring

2️⃣ Incubation Program

For startups ready to build and commercialize.
Includes:

  • Access to workspace and labs

  • Technical and business mentorship

  • IP, legal, and compliance assistance

  • Investor and funding access

3️⃣ Acceleration Program

For growth-stage startups seeking market expansion and investment.
Includes:

  • Investor readiness programs

  • Go-to-market and scaling support

  • Industry partnerships and visibility

4️⃣ Entrepreneurship Development Initiatives

Beyond incubation, ACIC RISE conducts entrepreneurship bootcamps, hackathons, EDPs, and innovation challenges to inspire entrepreneurial thinking among students and communities.

Step-by-Step Guide: How to Apply

Step 1️⃣: Visit the Official Website

Go to the ACIC RISE Association webpage or the SGSITS incubation portal and navigate to the “Apply for Incubation” section.

Step 2️⃣: Prepare Your Pitch Deck

Your pitch deck should clearly include:

  • Problem and proposed solution

  • Market scope and target segment

  • Innovation and technology overview

  • Business model and scalability plan

  • Team composition and funding needs

Step 3️⃣: Fill the Application Form

Upload your startup’s information along with necessary documents:

  • Pitch deck and prototype visuals

  • Registration certificate (if applicable)

  • Patent/IP details or demo videos

Step 4️⃣: Evaluation and Screening

Applications are reviewed by an expert panel based on:

  • Novelty and social impact

  • Technical and commercial feasibility

  • Market potential and execution plan

Step 5️⃣: Pitch Presentation

Shortlisted teams present their ideas before a selection committee of mentors, investors, and faculty experts.

Step 6️⃣: Selection and Onboarding

Selected startups are onboarded as official incubatees and provided access to all incubation benefits.

Step 7️⃣: Mentoring and Growth Support

Once onboarded, startups receive continuous support through:

  • One-on-one mentorship

  • Product testing and validation

  • Investor networking opportunities

  • Media visibility and demo-day showcases

Benefits of Joining ACIC RISE Association

✨ Access to modern labs, co-working spaces, and infrastructure
✨ Expert mentorship and business guidance
✨ Seed funding and grant support
✨ Exposure to investor and corporate networks
✨ IP, legal, and compliance support
✨ National visibility through innovation programs
✨ Research collaboration with SGSITS faculty

Success Stories

Some of the remarkable startups that have thrived under ACIC RISE include:

🌾 AgriNova Solutions – AI-powered tools for soil health and smart farming.
💧 HydroPure Tech – Solar-driven water purification for rural India.
⚙️ EcoSmart Devices – IoT-based smart home and energy-efficient systems.

These startups demonstrate how inclusive innovation can solve local problems while contributing to India’s growth story.

Impact and Future Vision

ACIC RISE aims to empower 500+ innovators and startups over the next five years by:

  • Launching sector-specific innovation clusters

  • Introducing micro-grant and pre-seed funding programs

  • Partnering with global innovation networks

  • Expanding rural entrepreneurship outreach

By nurturing ideas rooted in community needs, ACIC RISE envisions building a self-sustaining innovation hub for Central India.

Conclusion

The ACIC RISE Association is more than an incubator — it’s a movement for inclusive innovation.
By democratizing access to mentorship, funding, and technology, it empowers innovators from all walks of life to create solutions that drive both economic and social change.

If you have an idea that can make a difference, now is the time.
💡 Visit the official website, prepare your proposal, and apply for incubation at ACIC RISE Association today — your journey toward innovation and impact begins here.

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How to Apply for Seed Fund & Incubation at Catalyst Atal Incubation Centre

Catalyst Atal Incubation Centre

Introduction

In today’s India, entrepreneurship is not just about starting a business — it’s about solving deep-rooted problems through innovation, technology, and impact.
And when it comes to inclusive innovation and social entrepreneurship, Catalyst Atal Incubation Centre (Catalyst AIC) stands out as a pioneering hub that blends business with purpose.

Located in Jaipur, Rajasthan, Catalyst AIC is one of the premier incubators supported by Atal Innovation Mission (AIM), NITI Aayog, and hosted by Catalyst Group — known for its work in financial inclusion and rural impact.

The incubator’s mission is to support high-impact startups working in sectors like fintech, livelihood, sustainability, women entrepreneurship, and rural innovation, helping them grow from idea to scale through structured mentoring, funding, and ecosystem access.

If you are an early-stage startup aiming to create inclusive, scalable, and impact-oriented ventures, this detailed guide will walk you through everything — eligibility, benefits, how to apply, and why Catalyst AIC could be the turning point in your entrepreneurial journey.

1. About Catalyst Atal Incubation Centre (Catalyst AIC)

Catalyst AIC was established in 2018 under the Atal Innovation Mission (AIM) of the Government of India, with support from NITI Aayog.

It’s hosted by Catalyst Group, a social enterprise initiative known for driving digital financial inclusion and sustainable development projects across India.

The incubator focuses on nurturing and accelerating early-stage startups working to solve socio-economic challenges — especially in Tier II and Tier III India.

Vision

To create an ecosystem that nurtures and scales inclusive innovations addressing India’s most critical challenges in livelihood, financial access, and sustainability.

Mission

  • To support startups that use technology and design thinking for social impact.

  • To bridge the urban-rural divide through digital and financial inclusion.

  • To provide a platform for innovators to access funding, mentors, and markets.

  • To accelerate women-led and youth-led startups in underserved regions.

Focus Areas

  • FinTech and Digital Payments

  • Agriculture and Rural Livelihoods

  • Sustainability and Circular Economy

  • Skill Development and JobTech

  • Women Entrepreneurship

  • Social Impact and Inclusion

2. Programs and Offerings

Catalyst AIC offers a mix of pre-incubation, incubation, and acceleration programs. Each is tailored for startups at different stages — from idea validation to market expansion.

🌱 Pre-Incubation

For early founders with innovative ideas but no formal business structure.
Focus: Problem validation, prototyping, early mentorship.
Duration: 3–6 months.

🚀 Incubation

For startups with prototypes or early revenue seeking business support and funding access.
Focus: Business model refinement, product-market fit, fundraising.
Duration: 6–12 months.

🌍 Acceleration

For growth-stage startups aiming to scale operations, raise investment, or expand markets.
Focus: Growth strategy, partnerships, investor connects.
Duration: 3–6 months.

3. Seed Fund Support

One of Catalyst AIC’s strongest offerings is access to seed funding through Atal Innovation Mission and partner investors.

💰 Funding Support Includes:

  • Seed fund tickets: ₹10–25 lakhs (typical range) for startups ready to scale.

  • Grant support: Smaller grants for validation and prototype testing.

  • Investor networks: Connect with angel investors, impact funds, and CSR-based programs.

Catalyst AIC also collaborates with government and CSR-led initiatives to support startups working on sustainability, social inclusion, and livelihood impact.

4. Infrastructure and Ecosystem

The Catalyst AIC campus in Jaipur provides world-class facilities for innovation and collaboration:

🏢 Co-working and incubation space — equipped with Wi-Fi, meeting rooms, and prototyping support.
💡 Access to labs and testing facilities — for digital and financial technology validation.
🤝 Mentorship network — includes entrepreneurs, investors, policymakers, and domain experts.
🌐 Corporate and policy linkages — with banks, NBFCs, and government agencies for pilot projects.
🎯 Investor & Demo Days — where startups showcase progress to investors and partners.

5. Eligibility Criteria

Before applying, ensure your startup aligns with Catalyst AIC’s mission and meets these core criteria:

Basic Eligibility

  • Applicant must be an Indian startup or entrepreneur.

  • Must have a valid DPIIT Startup India registration (or in process).

  • Startup should be less than 10 years old since incorporation.

  • Business must be working in innovation-led or impact-oriented sectors.

Preferred Startup Profiles

  • Social enterprises or for-profit startups working on financial inclusion, livelihood, or sustainability.

  • Startups with validated ideas, prototypes, or early traction.

  • Founders passionate about solving rural or inclusion-based challenges.

  • Women-led or youth-led startups are encouraged to apply.

6. Step-by-Step Application Process

Here’s how you can apply for incubation or seed fund support at Catalyst AIC:

Step 1: Visit the Official Website

Go to www.catalystaic.org.
Navigate to the “Programs” or “Apply” section.

Step 2: Choose Your Program

Select from pre-incubation, incubation, or acceleration based on your stage.
Check for any open call for applications or cohorts.

Step 3: Fill the Application Form

Provide detailed startup information:

  • Problem statement and solution

  • Founding team background

  • Product/market traction

  • Funding requirement and milestones

Step 4: Upload Supporting Documents

  • DPIIT certificate

  • Incorporation documents

  • Pitch deck or business plan

  • Financial summary (if available)

Step 5: Screening and Shortlisting

A selection panel reviews applications based on innovation, scalability, and social impact.

Step 6: Pitch Round

Shortlisted founders present their startup to the Catalyst AIC selection committee.
Pitch includes business viability, team, traction, and use of funds.

Step 7: Onboarding and Support

Selected startups are incubated for 6–12 months. They gain access to:

  • Mentorship

  • Co-working space

  • Funding and partnerships

  • Pilot opportunities

Step 8: Graduation

After completing milestones, startups graduate with investor introductions and long-term network support.

7. Benefits of Getting Incubated at Catalyst AIC

Catalyst AIC provides an end-to-end support system that goes beyond funding.

✅ Seed & Grant Funding

Access to AIM-supported and CSR-based funds for prototype and scale-up.

✅ Business Mentorship

Industry experts and ISB/IIM alumni guide startups on growth strategy, marketing, and operations.

✅ Access to Markets

Partnerships with financial institutions, corporates, and government programs for pilot testing and distribution.

✅ Investor Network

Connect with impact investors, venture capitalists, and angel networks.

✅ Brand Credibility

Being incubated under the Atal Innovation Mission (AIM, NITI Aayog) adds immense credibility to your startup.

✅ Knowledge Resources

Regular workshops on legal, fundraising, IP, marketing, and digital growth.

✅ Community and Collaboration

Access to a vibrant founder community building for Bharat’s next billion users.

8. Key Impact and Success Stories

Catalyst AIC has supported 150+ startups and helped mobilize over ₹40 crores in follow-on funding.

Some of the standout startups include:

  • Fintech startups building last-mile digital payment systems for rural India.

  • Agri-livelihood startups enabling farmer collectives and cooperatives.

  • Women-led social enterprises offering employment to rural artisans.

Through its impact-driven programs, Catalyst AIC has created thousands of rural livelihood opportunities, empowering both entrepreneurs and communities.

9. Why Choose Catalyst AIC

Catalyst AIC isn’t just an incubator — it’s a movement of inclusive entrepreneurship.
Here’s why it’s a top choice for founders:

  • Strong backing from Atal Innovation Mission (Government of India).

  • Focus on social impact and financial inclusion — unique in India’s incubator ecosystem.

  • Deep network across government, finance, and development sectors.

  • Access to both seed capital and real-world pilots.

  • Mentorship from domain experts in fintech, sustainability, and rural innovation.

  • Located in Jaipur, a growing hub for social startups in North India.

If your idea is built to impact lives while building a business — Catalyst AIC gives you the ecosystem to make it happen.

10. Contact Information

📍 Address:
Catalyst AIC
G1-G4, Ajmer Road, Jaipur, Rajasthan – 302021

📧 Email: info@catalystaic.org
🌐 Website: www.catalystaic.org
📞 Phone: +91-XXXXXXXXXX

Conclusion

The Catalyst Atal Incubation Centre is redefining how India supports impact-led innovation. It empowers startups that are building for inclusion — combining technology, social purpose, and business acumen.

If your venture is driven by purpose, Catalyst AIC offers the funding, mentorship, and partnerships to help you grow sustainably and make measurable change.

So if you’ve been waiting for the right ecosystem to turn your vision into action, Catalyst AIC might just be that launchpad.

Because building for India’s future starts with building for everyone. 🌍💡