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How to Apply for Seed Fund Incubator at Ahmedabad University Support Foundation (VentureStudio)

VentureStudio

Introduction

India’s startup ecosystem is rapidly evolving — driven by visionary entrepreneurs transforming local problems into global opportunities. Yet, most early-stage founders face two persistent challenges: access to capital and structured incubation support.

That’s where the Ahmedabad University Support Foundation’s VentureStudio steps in.

Located in Ahmedabad, VentureStudio is a premier startup incubation platform that empowers innovators to move from idea to impact. Backed by Ahmedabad University, it supports founders through seed funding, mentorship, and a strong entrepreneurial ecosystem designed for sustainable growth.

This article offers a complete roadmap on how to apply for the Seed Fund Incubator at VentureStudio, including eligibility, benefits, programs, and success stories — everything a founder needs to turn an idea into a market-ready business.

1. About Ahmedabad University Support Foundation (VentureStudio)

Established by Ahmedabad University, VentureStudio serves as a hub for innovation-driven entrepreneurship in India. Since its inception, it has been instrumental in helping early-stage startups across sectors such as healthcare, sustainability, mobility, and technology.

Recognized under Startup India and supported by the Department for Promotion of Industry and Internal Trade (DPIIT), VentureStudio blends academic knowledge, industry partnerships, and government support to create an ecosystem where startups thrive.

Vision

To foster a culture of innovation and entrepreneurship that transforms ideas into impactful ventures contributing to India’s economic and social growth.

Mission

  • To empower founders through structured incubation and mentoring.

  • To bridge the gap between innovation and implementation through funding.

  • To create globally relevant startups that emerge from India’s innovation ecosystem.

2. Key Highlights of VentureStudio

✅ University-Backed Incubation:
Supported by Ahmedabad University, offering access to top faculty, research labs, and innovation infrastructure.

✅ Recognized Under National Programs:
Part of Startup India Seed Fund Scheme (SISFS) and other government-backed initiatives.

✅ Seed Funding Support:
Provides both grant and equity-based support for prototype development and commercialization.

✅ Mentorship & Industry Connect:
Guidance from industry leaders, domain experts, and successful entrepreneurs.

✅ Collaborations & Partnerships:
Strong alliances with corporates, investors, and international innovation networks.

✅ Track Record of Success:
Over 150 startups supported across domains like med-tech, design, sustainability, and AI.

3. Focus Sectors at VentureStudio

VentureStudio focuses on innovation-led, high-impact sectors aligned with India’s future economy:

  • Healthcare & MedTech – Affordable innovations improving healthcare access.

  • CleanTech & Sustainability – Solutions for renewable energy, waste management, and green tech.

  • Smart Mobility – EV, logistics, and urban transport innovations.

  • Design & Manufacturing – Product design and materials innovation.

  • AI, Data, and Digital Transformation – Startups leveraging emerging technologies.

This diversity ensures VentureStudio nurtures startups addressing both social challenges and market opportunities.

4. Understanding the Seed Fund and Incubation Program

The Seed Fund Incubation Program at VentureStudio is designed to provide holistic support to early-stage startups — covering everything from funding to mentorship and investor access.

The program operates in two structured phases:

A. Pre-Incubation Phase

  • Duration: 3–6 months

  • Focus: Ideation, prototype development, and business model design

  • Outcome: Market validation and MVP readiness

B. Full Incubation Phase

  • Duration: 12–24 months

  • Focus: Product-market fit, scaling strategy, and investment readiness

  • Support: Seed fund, mentorship, and ecosystem linkages

C. Seed Funding Support

Under the Startup India Seed Fund Scheme (SISFS), eligible startups can receive:

  • Up to ₹20 lakhs (grant) for prototype or product development

  • Up to ₹50 lakhs (investment) for market entry and commercialization

Additional financial assistance may be provided by VentureStudio for pilot projects and growth-stage support.

Funding is milestone-linked — disbursed in tranches based on startup performance.

5. Eligibility Criteria

To apply for seed funding and incubation at VentureStudio, startups must meet the following criteria:

✅ DPIIT-Recognized Startup:
Must be registered under the Startup India initiative.

✅ Entity Type:
Private Limited Company, LLP, or Registered Partnership Firm.

✅ Age Limit:
Not older than 10 years since incorporation.

✅ Turnover:
Should not have exceeded ₹100 crore in any financial year.

✅ Innovation Stage:
Should have a prototype, MVP, or early commercial product.

✅ Innovation Element:
Must demonstrate uniqueness in technology, process, or business model.

✅ No Prior SISFS Support:
Startups funded by another incubator under SISFS are ineligible for a second grant.

6. Step-by-Step Application Process

Follow these steps to apply for incubation and seed funding at VentureStudio:

Step 1: Register on the Startup India Seed Fund Portal

Ensure your startup has DPIIT recognition, then visit the Startup India Seed Fund Portal.

Step 2: Choose VentureStudio as the Incubator

Select “Ahmedabad University Support Foundation (VentureStudio)” from the list of SISFS-approved incubators.

Step 3: Submit Application

Upload the required details and documents:

  • Pitch deck (10–12 slides)

  • Prototype or MVP evidence

  • Business plan and market details

  • Founders’ profiles and company details

  • Financial projections

Step 4: Evaluation & Screening

Applications are reviewed by an expert Seed Fund Evaluation Committee. Key evaluation parameters include:

  • Innovation and scalability

  • Market potential

  • Team capability

  • Social or environmental impact

Step 5: Pitch Presentation

Shortlisted startups present their ideas before the selection panel.

Step 6: Onboarding

Selected startups sign an MoU and begin their incubation journey at VentureStudio.

Step 7: Fund Disbursement

Funding is released in phases based on verified milestones and progress reports.

7. Benefits of Incubation at VentureStudio

✅ Seed Funding:
Financial assistance up to ₹50 lakhs to support development and scaling.

✅ Expert Mentorship:
Access to industry veterans, academicians, and investor networks.

✅ Infrastructure:
Co-working space, product design labs, and university resources.

✅ Training & Bootcamps:
Entrepreneurship development programs and investor readiness workshops.

✅ Investor & Market Access:
Connections to VCs, angels, and corporate accelerators.

✅ Networking & Collaborations:
Frequent demo days, innovation challenges, and community events.

✅ Follow-on Support:
Help in raising next-stage investments and scaling operations.

8. Success Stories

VentureStudio has nurtured several successful startups that have created real-world impact:

  • LeRolls: Pioneered sustainable packaging materials now adopted by FMCG brands.

  • BioReform: Developed eco-friendly biotechnology solutions for industrial waste.

  • AutoMate: Introduced smart transport automation systems for Indian cities.

These ventures reflect VentureStudio’s role as a launchpad for scalable, responsible innovation.

9. Why Choose VentureStudio?

Here’s what makes VentureStudio unique among India’s incubation programs:

✅ Backed by Ahmedabad University and Startup India.
✅ Offers both funding and academic mentorship.
✅ Provides access to corporate and investor networks.
✅ Focuses on innovation with social and economic impact.
✅ Proven success in scaling early-stage ventures.

If you’re building something transformative, VentureStudio gives your startup the resources, mentorship, and network to succeed.

10. Contact Information

📍 Address:
VentureStudio, Ahmedabad University
Commerce Six Road, Navrangpura, Ahmedabad – 380009

📧 Email: venturestudio@ahduni.edu.in
🌐 Website: www.venturestudio.in
📞 Phone: +91 79 6191 1100

Conclusion

The Ahmedabad University Support Foundation (VentureStudio) stands at the intersection of innovation, entrepreneurship, and social impact.

Through its Seed Fund Incubator, it empowers founders to grow ideas into sustainable enterprises, backed by mentorship, capital, and community.

If you’re a founder ready to make a difference, VentureStudio is where your entrepreneurial journey begins.

Innovation starts with one idea — VentureStudio helps you turn that idea into impact.

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How to Apply for Seed Fund Incubator at Sharda Launchpad Federation

Sharda Launchpad Federation

Introduction

Every startup begins with a spark — an idea full of potential. Yet, for many early-stage founders, turning that idea into a viable business requires more than just passion. Funding, mentorship, and access to an entrepreneurial ecosystem are key factors that can make or break a startup.
This is where Sharda Launchpad Federation (SLF) steps in.

As the official incubator of Sharda University, SLF supports entrepreneurs in transforming innovative concepts into successful, scalable ventures. Through the Startup India Seed Fund Scheme (SISFS) and other programs, the incubator provides crucial early-stage funding, expert mentorship, and a nurturing environment for entrepreneurs to grow.

If you’ve been wondering how to apply for the seed fund incubator at Sharda Launchpad Federation, this guide gives you a complete step-by-step roadmap — from eligibility and documentation to funding support and success tips.

About Sharda Launchpad Federation

The Sharda Launchpad Federation (SLF) is an initiative by Sharda University to promote innovation, entrepreneurship, and technology-driven growth. It aims to provide startups with the right mix of capital, mentoring, networking, and market exposure.

SLF’s mission is to empower early-stage startups through holistic incubation — helping them validate their ideas, build prototypes, raise capital, and scale sustainably.

Key Features

  • Seed Funding: Up to ₹50 lakh under the SISFS program.

  • Equity-Free Grants: Financial assistance without giving up ownership.

  • Mentorship: Access to top industry experts, investors, and academics.

  • Infrastructure: Modern co-working spaces, labs, and testing facilities.

  • Networking: Exposure to potential partners, investors, and market linkages.

  • Capacity Building: Bootcamps, workshops, and investor meets.

SLF supports a wide spectrum of industries including HealthTech, EdTech, FinTech, Clean Energy, AgriTech, and AI/IoT-based startups.

Eligibility Criteria

Before applying, make sure your startup meets the following eligibility guidelines:

  1. Registered Entity: The startup must be registered in India as a Pvt. Ltd. company, LLP, or OPC.

  2. DPIIT Recognition: Preferably recognized by the Department for Promotion of Industry and Internal Trade (DPIIT).

  3. Indian Ownership: At least 51% shareholding should be with Indian founders.

  4. Stage: Must be an early-stage startup (ideation, prototype, or pre-revenue).

  5. Age of Startup: Not more than 2 years from the date of incorporation (for SISFS).

  6. Innovation Focus: The startup should offer an innovative, technology-driven, or socially impactful solution.

Application Process

Follow these steps to apply for the seed fund incubator program at Sharda Launchpad Federation:

Step 1: Visit the Official Website

Go to https://sharda.ac.in/incubation or the Sharda Launchpad Federation portal to view details about the incubation and funding programs.

Step 2: Register Your Startup

Create an account on the online portal and provide your basic startup details — name, registration number, and contact info.

Step 3: Fill the Application Form

Provide comprehensive information such as:

  • Problem statement and proposed solution

  • Product or service description

  • Target market and competitors

  • Business and revenue model

  • Current traction (if any)

  • Fund requirement and utilization plan

Step 4: Attach Required Documents

Prepare and upload:

  • Certificate of Incorporation

  • DPIIT Recognition Certificate (if available)

  • Pitch Deck

  • Founders’ resumes

  • Financials or business plan

Step 5: Evaluation & Pitch

After submission, applications are reviewed for innovation, scalability, and team capability. Shortlisted startups are invited to pitch before a selection committee that includes domain experts and investors.

Step 6: Selection & Onboarding

Selected startups undergo due diligence and then join the incubation program. Upon successful induction, startups may receive funding under SISFS or other SLF funding opportunities.

Funding Details

1. Startup India Seed Fund Scheme (SISFS)

  • Amount: Up to ₹50 lakh

  • Form: Equity-free grants or debt instruments

  • Purpose: Prototype development, product validation, market entry, or scaling operations

  • Disbursement: Released in tranches based on milestones

2. Sharda Launchpad Federation Fund

  • Internal Grants: SLF offers internal funds and connects startups with angel investors and venture capitalists.

  • Mentorship Support: Continuous monitoring and guidance on fund utilization and growth milestones.

Benefits of Incubation at SLF

  1. Zero-Cost Workspace: Free co-working areas and access to labs.

  2. Expert Mentorship: Guidance from successful founders and professors.

  3. Investor Connections: Networking with angel investors and VC firms.

  4. Market Access: Exposure through demo days, exhibitions, and startup fairs.

  5. Skill Building: Training in pitching, business development, and financial modeling.

  6. Visibility: Opportunities to represent your startup at national-level events.

Tips for a Successful Application

💡 1. Strong Problem–Solution Fit:
Show how your product solves a specific, pressing issue in your target market.

💡 2. Demonstrate Innovation:
Highlight what makes your approach unique and scalable.

💡 3. Clear Fund Utilization:
Break down how you’ll use the grant to achieve measurable milestones.

💡 4. Build a Balanced Team:
Incubators prefer teams with complementary technical and business skills.

💡 5. Keep Your Pitch Simple:
Tell a clear, engaging story — the why, what, and how behind your idea.

Success Stories from SLF

  • MedCare AI: A HealthTech startup that developed an AI-powered early diagnosis tool and secured funding under SISFS.

  • AgriNova: Used seed funding to launch a precision farming device and raised follow-on funding within six months.

  • EduMentor: An EdTech platform that scaled across 50+ institutions after SLF incubation.

These success stories underline how strategic mentorship and funding at SLF can accelerate startup journeys from ideation to market success.

Contact Information

📍 Address: Sharda Launchpad Federation, Sharda University Campus, Greater Noida, Uttar Pradesh
📧 Email: info@shardalaunchpad.com
🌐 Website: https://sharda.ac.in/incubation
📞 Phone: +91-120-4060210

Conclusion

For early-stage entrepreneurs, the Sharda Launchpad Federation is more than an incubator — it’s a launchpad to success. With access to funding, mentorship, and infrastructure, startups can focus on building, testing, and scaling their innovations confidently.
If you have a promising idea and the drive to make it real, applying for the Seed Fund Incubator at Sharda Launchpad Federation could be your first big leap toward creating impact and growth.