Tag Archive for: Atal Incubation Centre

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How to Apply for Seed Fund Incubator at AIC, Dr. Babasaheb Ambedkar Marathwada University Aurangabad

BAMU

Introduction

India’s startup ecosystem has become one of the fastest-growing in the world, powered by innovation, youth energy, and government-led initiatives that encourage entrepreneurship across every sector. However, for early-stage entrepreneurs, access to mentorship, infrastructure, and funding remains one of the biggest challenges.

That’s where Atal Incubation Centre – Dr. Babasaheb Ambedkar Marathwada University (AIC-BAMU) steps in.

Located in the historic city of Aurangabad, Maharashtra, AIC-BAMU Foundation is a government-supported incubation centre established under the Atal Innovation Mission (AIM) of NITI Aayog. It provides startups with end-to-end support through incubation, mentorship, networking, and seed funding opportunities under the Startup India Seed Fund Scheme (SISFS).

Whether you are a student innovator, a first-time founder, or a research-driven entrepreneur, AIC-BAMU offers the right ecosystem to take your idea from concept to commercialization.

This article is your comprehensive roadmap on how to apply for seed funding and incubation at AIC-BAMU — covering eligibility criteria, benefits, focus sectors, success stories, and the complete application process.

1. About AIC-BAMU Foundation

The Atal Incubation Centre – Dr. Babasaheb Ambedkar Marathwada University Foundation (AIC-BAMU) was established with the mission to promote innovation, entrepreneurship, and economic development in the Marathwada region and beyond.

Supported by Atal Innovation Mission (AIM), NITI Aayog, the incubator is designed to nurture startups across sectors such as technology, agriculture, healthcare, sustainability, and manufacturing.

The centre operates within the Dr. Babasaheb Ambedkar Marathwada University (BAMU) campus, leveraging the university’s vast research base, faculty expertise, and student talent. Its goal is to create an ecosystem that connects academia, industry, and investors to fuel startup growth.

Vision

To transform Marathwada into a hub of innovation and entrepreneurship that empowers local talent and contributes to India’s national innovation mission.

Mission

  • To provide a supportive ecosystem for early-stage entrepreneurs.

  • To offer structured incubation, mentorship, and access to funding.

  • To promote sustainable and technology-led ventures that address India’s developmental challenges.

  • To facilitate industry-academia collaboration and foster innovation-driven economic growth.

2. Key Highlights of AIC-BAMU

✅ Government-Recognized Incubator
Established under Atal Innovation Mission, NITI Aayog, and recognized by Startup India.

✅ Seed Fund Support
Provides funding through Startup India Seed Fund Scheme (SISFS) for prototype development and commercialization.

✅ University-Backed Infrastructure
Located within Dr. Babasaheb Ambedkar Marathwada University campus with access to labs, R&D centres, and research scholars.

✅ Mentorship Network
Connects startups with industry leaders, academicians, investors, and policymakers.

✅ Focus on Regional Innovation
Empowers entrepreneurs from Tier-2 and Tier-3 cities to create scalable businesses.

✅ Track Record of Impact
Over 100 startups incubated, with several progressing to receive national recognition and follow-on funding.

3. Focus Sectors at AIC-BAMU

AIC-BAMU supports startups across a wide range of innovation-driven domains, including:

  • Agritech and Rural Innovation

  • HealthTech and Biotechnology

  • Clean Energy and Environmental Solutions

  • Information Technology and IoT

  • Education and Skill Development

  • Manufacturing and Industry 4.0

  • Sustainable Development and Social Enterprises

The incubator prioritizes ventures that bring technological innovation, social impact, and employment generation potential to the region.

4. Seed Fund and Incubation Program Overview

AIC-BAMU runs a multi-tier incubation and funding model that supports startups from ideation to growth.

A. Pre-Incubation Program

Duration: 3–6 months
Objective: Idea validation and prototype development
Support Includes:

  • Access to mentors and research labs

  • Business model canvas training

  • Prototype guidance

  • Pitching and business presentation workshops

B. Full Incubation Program

Duration: 12–24 months
Objective: Market readiness, customer acquisition, and scaling
Support Includes:

  • Dedicated workspace and mentorship

  • Networking with investors and industry partners

  • Marketing and financial planning assistance

C. Seed Fund Program (Under SISFS)

Through the Startup India Seed Fund Scheme, AIC-BAMU provides:

  • Up to ₹20 lakhs (grant) for prototype development and product trials.

  • Up to ₹50 lakhs (investment) for commercialization or scaling.

Funding is milestone-based and linked to the startup’s progress and deliverables.

5. Eligibility Criteria

To be eligible for incubation and seed funding at AIC-BAMU, startups must meet the following:

✅ Must be recognized by DPIIT under Startup India.
✅ Must be a registered entity — Private Limited Company, LLP, or Partnership Firm.
✅ Should be less than 10 years old from the date of incorporation.
✅ Annual turnover must be below ₹100 crore in any financial year.
✅ Startup should be in prototype or early commercialization stage.
✅ Product or service must involve innovation, technology, or a new business model.
✅ Startup must not have received SISFS funding from another incubator.

6. Step-by-Step Application Process

Here’s how founders can apply for seed funding and incubation at AIC-BAMU:

Step 1: Register on Startup India Portal

Ensure your startup is registered and recognized by DPIIT.

Step 2: Apply on the SISFS Portal

Visit the Startup India Seed Fund Scheme portal and select AIC-BAMU Foundation as your preferred incubator.

Step 3: Submit Application Documents

You’ll need to upload:

  • Business Plan / Pitch Deck

  • Problem-Solution Fit

  • Prototype Details / MVP

  • Founder Profiles

  • Financial Plan and Milestones

Step 4: Screening

The Seed Fund Evaluation Committee reviews all applications based on innovation potential, scalability, and market need.

Step 5: Pitch Presentation

Shortlisted startups present their ideas before a selection panel of industry experts, academicians, and investors.

Step 6: Selection and Onboarding

Selected startups sign an incubation agreement (MoU) and begin their structured incubation journey.

Step 7: Funding Disbursement

Seed fund is released in tranches linked to milestones achieved by the startup.

7. Benefits of Joining AIC-BAMU

Joining AIC-BAMU offers several tangible and strategic benefits to entrepreneurs:

✅ Seed Funding Access
Up to ₹50 lakhs in funding support under SISFS.

✅ Mentorship and Advisory
Regular sessions with domain experts, investors, and professors.

✅ University Ecosystem Access
R&D facilities, student interns, and lab resources from BAMU.

✅ Investor and Corporate Connects
Networking opportunities with angels, VCs, and industry bodies.

✅ Entrepreneurship Training
Workshops on business strategy, legal compliance, and financial literacy.

✅ Infrastructure
Office spaces, meeting rooms, and high-speed internet for resident startups.

✅ Networking and Events
Demo days, hackathons, startup challenges, and policy roundtables.

✅ Follow-on Funding Support
Assistance in raising further rounds post-seed stage.

8. Success Stories

AIC-BAMU has incubated more than 100 startups, many of which have made a significant social and economic impact:

  • AgriEdge: Developed a precision agriculture platform that helps farmers increase yield using IoT data.

  • HealthWave: A digital health startup connecting rural patients with affordable telemedicine services.

  • BioLoop: Created biodegradable alternatives to single-use plastics.

  • SkillBridge: Built an AI-powered platform for employability training for youth in smaller cities.

These success stories highlight AIC-BAMU’s commitment to empowering entrepreneurs who solve local and global challenges through innovation.

9. Why Choose AIC-BAMU?

Here’s why AIC-BAMU is one of the most impactful incubation hubs in western India:

✅ Government-backed incubation under AIM, NITI Aayog
✅ Access to BAMU’s academic and research infrastructure
✅ Deep focus on rural and regional innovation
✅ Integrated funding through Startup India Seed Fund Scheme
✅ Proven track record of startup success and impact

AIC-BAMU combines the strength of academia with the agility of startup culture, making it an ideal platform for innovators looking to scale their ideas.

10. Contact Information

📍 Address:
Atal Incubation Centre – Dr. Babasaheb Ambedkar Marathwada University,
BAMU Campus, Aurangabad, Maharashtra – 431004

📧 Email: info@aicbamu.org
🌐 Website: https://aicbamu.org
📞 Phone: +91-240-2403333

Conclusion

The Atal Incubation Centre – Dr. Babasaheb Ambedkar Marathwada University (AIC-BAMU) represents the power of innovation-driven education. By providing structured incubation, expert mentorship, and funding support through the Startup India Seed Fund Scheme, it empowers founders to build scalable, sustainable businesses.

AIC-BAMU has proven that innovation isn’t just confined to metropolitan cities — it thrives in regions where vision meets support.

If you’re a startup founder looking to validate your idea, access funding, and connect with India’s broader innovation network, AIC-BAMU offers the right foundation to launch and scale your startup journey.

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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. 🌍💡

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How to Apply for Seed Fund Incubator at AIC Banasthali Vidyapith Foundation

AIC Banasthali Vidyapith

Introduction

India’s startup ecosystem has entered a golden era of innovation — driven by bold ideas, women-led ventures, and world-class incubation programs.
Among the most transformative forces in this space stands the AIC Banasthali Vidyapith Foundation, one of the few incubation centers in India built with a strong focus on empowering women entrepreneurs and supporting deep-tech, social, and sustainability-driven startups.

Supported under the Atal Innovation Mission by NITI Aayog, the AIC Banasthali Vidyapith Foundation offers access to mentorship, funding, and business acceleration programs — including the Startup India Seed Fund Scheme (SISFS), which provides early-stage capital to startups to help them validate, prototype, and scale their business ideas.

This article covers everything you need to know about how to apply for the seed fund incubator at AIC Banasthali Vidyapith Foundation, including eligibility, process, benefits, and why this incubator is an exceptional launchpad for early-stage startups.

1. About AIC Banasthali Vidyapith Foundation

Established in 2018, the Atal Incubation Centre – Banasthali Vidyapith Foundation (AIC-BVF) is part of India’s premier network of incubators under the Atal Innovation Mission (AIM). It operates within Banasthali Vidyapith, a globally recognized women’s university with over 85 years of excellence in education and social innovation.

Vision

To empower women entrepreneurs and innovators to transform their ideas into scalable and impactful ventures.

Mission

To create a thriving ecosystem for women-led startups through incubation, mentoring, funding, and global exposure.

Focus Areas

AIC-BVF supports startups across sectors like:

  • AgriTech and Food Processing

  • EdTech

  • HealthTech and Wellness

  • Clean Energy and Sustainability

  • FashionTech and Handicrafts

  • Social Enterprises and Women-led Innovations

The incubator is known for nurturing startups that balance profit with purpose — enabling women founders to become leaders of economic and social change.

2. Understanding the AIC Banasthali Vidyapith Seed Fund Program

The AIC Banasthali Vidyapith Seed Fund Program operates under the Startup India Seed Fund Scheme (SISFS), managed by the Department for Promotion of Industry and Internal Trade (DPIIT).

This initiative aims to bridge the funding gap faced by early-stage entrepreneurs who struggle to raise capital from investors before they have a validated product or market traction.

Funding Support

  1. Grant Assistance (Up to ₹20 Lakhs)
    For idea validation, prototype development, and product testing.

  2. Equity or Convertible Debt (Up to ₹50 Lakhs)
    For startups ready to enter the market, commercialize, and scale operations.

The program’s goal is to ensure that promising startups — especially women-led ones — have the resources to transition from idea to a revenue-generating business.

3. Eligibility Criteria for Applying to the AIC Banasthali Vidyapith Seed Fund

To apply for the AIC Banasthali Vidyapith Seed Fund, startups must meet the following eligibility criteria:

Must be recognized by DPIIT under the Startup India initiative
Must be an Indian startup incorporated as a Private Limited Company, LLP, or Partnership Firm
Should not be more than 10 years old from the date of incorporation
Should have an annual turnover below ₹100 crore in any financial year
Indian promoters must hold at least 51% equity in the startup
Must have a proof of concept, prototype, or early traction
Preference is given to women-led and social-impact startups

Note: AIC-BVF encourages applications from Tier-2 and Tier-3 cities, ensuring that innovation reaches beyond metropolitan boundaries.

4. Step-by-Step Process to Apply for Seed Fund at AIC Banasthali Vidyapith Foundation

Here’s the complete application process explained in detail:

Step 1: Apply Online

Visit the official Startup India Seed Fund portal:
https://seedfund.startupindia.gov.in

Select AIC Banasthali Vidyapith Foundation as your preferred incubator from the available list.

Step 2: Fill Out the Application Form

Provide detailed information about your startup, such as:

  • Problem statement and your innovative solution

  • Target market and customer segments

  • Product development status (prototype/MVP)

  • Funding requirement and utilization plan

  • Expected outcomes and milestones

Step 3: Upload Required Documents

Attach these essential documents:

  • DPIIT recognition certificate

  • Certificate of incorporation

  • Founder’s KYC

  • Detailed business plan or pitch deck

  • Financial projections and revenue plan

Step 4: Screening and Evaluation

The AIC-BVF internal committee evaluates each application based on:

  • Innovation potential

  • Market opportunity

  • Scalability and impact

  • Founders’ capability and team strength

Step 5: Pitch Session

Shortlisted startups are invited for an online/offline pitch before a selection committee comprising:

  • Domain experts

  • Industry mentors

  • Investors and ecosystem partners

Step 6: Selection and Onboarding

Selected startups receive:

  • Seed funding support

  • Incubation services

  • Mentorship and training

  • Access to AIC-BVF’s national and international network

The entire process ensures transparency, inclusivity, and merit-based selection.

5. Key Benefits of Getting Incubated at AIC Banasthali Vidyapith Foundation

Being part of the AIC Banasthali Vidyapith Foundation ecosystem comes with unparalleled advantages:

Seed Funding Assistance

Startups receive up to ₹50 lakhs through grants and equity to develop prototypes, test markets, and scale operations.

Mentorship Network

Access to a curated network of 250+ industry mentors, including successful entrepreneurs, investors, and domain specialists.

Investor Connect

Exposure to angel investors, venture capitalists, and CSR-linked funds to raise follow-on investments.

Infrastructure and Workspace

World-class co-working spaces, meeting rooms, labs, and product testing facilities at Banasthali Vidyapith’s innovation hub.

Corporate and Government Collaborations

Partnerships with corporates, ministries, and innovation councils like NITI Aayog, DST, and UN Women India.

Capacity Building Programs

Workshops, bootcamps, and leadership programs to enhance entrepreneurial skills — especially tailored for women founders.

Networking and Exposure

Opportunities to participate in global accelerators, investor summits, and innovation challenges.

Women-Centric Ecosystem

As India’s leading women’s university incubator, AIC-BVF fosters a supportive and inclusive environment that addresses unique challenges faced by women entrepreneurs.

6. Success Stories from AIC Banasthali Vidyapith Foundation

AIC-BVF has been instrumental in supporting some remarkable startups that are redefining India’s innovation landscape:

Fia Global – A fintech startup empowering women in rural India through digital payment solutions.
Nabh Drishti – A social enterprise creating eco-friendly fashion accessories from recycled materials.
Aadvik Foods – India’s first camel milk brand, scaling rapidly with the support of AIC-BVF’s mentorship network.
EdSaarthi – An AI-based edtech platform improving access to personalized education in remote areas.

These startups showcase AIC-BVF’s commitment to nurturing innovation with impact — where business meets social change.

7. Why Choose AIC Banasthali Vidyapith Foundation for Seed Funding

If you’re an entrepreneur ready to bring your vision to life, AIC-BVF provides everything you need to succeed.

Here’s why founders across India choose this incubator:

Strong Women Empowerment Focus:
Empowering women founders to lead innovation and create sustainable ventures.

Global Exposure:
International exchange programs with partners across the USA, Europe, and Southeast Asia.

Comprehensive Support System:
From ideation to commercialization — AIC-BVF provides mentorship, market access, and investor connects.

Proven Track Record:
Dozens of startups have scaled nationally and globally through its programs.

Impact-Driven Vision:
Supports sustainable development goals (SDGs) through technology, innovation, and inclusivity.

In short — AIC Banasthali Vidyapith Foundation is not just an incubator, it’s a movement for women-led innovation in India.

8. Contact Information

📍 Address:
AIC Banasthali Vidyapith Foundation,
Banasthali Vidyapith Campus,
Tonk District, Rajasthan – 304022

📧 Email: info@aicbvfoundation.in
🌐 Website: www.aicbvfoundation.in
📞 Phone: +91 1438 228 456

Conclusion

As India’s startup ecosystem continues to soar, the AIC Banasthali Vidyapith Foundation stands out as a catalyst for innovation and empowerment.

Its seed fund program is not merely financial support — it’s a commitment to nurturing creativity, courage, and change among women entrepreneurs and social innovators.

If you have a vision that blends technology, purpose, and impact, then applying for the AIC Banasthali Vidyapith Seed Fund could be your turning point — the first step toward building something extraordinary.

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How to Apply for Seed Fund Incubator: Centre for ACIC-Kalasalingam Innovation Foundation

ACIC-KIF

Introduction

Starting a startup is an exhilarating journey, full of opportunities and challenges. While the thrill of building something new is unmatched, early-stage founders often face critical challenges such as limited resources, lack of mentorship, and inadequate infrastructure. Without the right support system, even the most innovative ideas can struggle to reach their full potential.

This is where the ACIC-Kalasalingam Innovation Foundation (ACIC-KIF) comes into play. Established under the Atal Incubation Centre (ACIC) program, ACIC-KIF provides a structured ecosystem for early-stage startups, combining equity-free seed funding, mentorship, infrastructure, and networking opportunities.

Whether your startup is technology-driven, socially impactful, or solution-oriented, ACIC-KIF equips founders with the tools to validate ideas, develop prototypes, and scale efficiently. In this guide, we cover everything you need to know about applying to ACIC-KIF: eligibility, application steps, funding, success stories, and benefits beyond funding.

What Is ACIC-Kalasalingam Innovation Foundation (ACIC-KIF)?

ACIC-KIF is a not-for-profit incubator promoted by Kalasalingam Academy of Research and Education (KARE) and supported by NITI Aayog’s Atal Innovation Mission (AIM). Its mission is to nurture early-stage startups with innovative solutions across multiple sectors.

The incubator focuses on startups that are working in:

  • AI, IoT, and emerging technologies

  • HealthTech and MedTech

  • Clean energy and sustainability

  • AgriTech and FoodTech

  • Social impact ventures

Key Features of ACIC-KIF

  1. Mentorship – Guidance from seasoned entrepreneurs, academicians, and industry experts helps startups navigate challenges, refine strategies, and scale efficiently.

  2. Infrastructure – Access to co-working spaces, labs, and meeting rooms reduces operational hurdles and accelerates product development.

  3. Funding – Equity-free seed funding, including support under the Startup India Seed Fund Scheme (SISFS), helps startups invest in product development and market entry.

  4. Networking & Exposure – Opportunities to connect with investors, corporates, and ecosystem partners.

  5. Skill Development – Workshops, bootcamps, and entrepreneurial training sessions enhance the knowledge and capabilities of founders.

ACIC-KIF provides a structured incubation ecosystem, enabling startups to validate ideas, test prototypes, and prepare for commercialization while minimizing financial and operational risks.

Key Offerings of ACIC-KIF

1. Zero-Cost Incubation

Startups get access to:

  • Co-working spaces and labs

  • Mentoring sessions with experts

  • Networking events and ecosystem opportunities

All these benefits are provided without any upfront costs, allowing founders to focus solely on product development and market validation.

2. Equity-Free Seed Funding

Selected startups can receive funding of up to ₹50 lakh without surrendering equity. This ensures founders retain full ownership of their business while accessing the financial support needed to scale operations.

3. Mentorship & Advisory Support

Industry experts, successful entrepreneurs, and KARE faculty provide guidance on:

  • Product development and prototyping

  • Business strategy and growth

  • Fundraising and investor relations

4. Networking & Exposure

Startups gain exposure to:

  • Investors and venture capitalists

  • Corporate partners and ecosystem players

  • Other incubated startups for collaboration opportunities

5. Sectoral Focus

ACIC-KIF primarily supports startups in sectors like:

  • AI, IoT, and Emerging Technologies – Leveraging advanced tech to solve real-world problems

  • HealthTech & MedTech – Innovative healthcare solutions

  • Clean Energy & Sustainability – Products promoting environmental impact

  • AgriTech & FoodTech – Enhancing productivity and food security

  • Social Impact Ventures – Technology or solutions creating societal change

Eligibility Criteria

Startups must meet the following requirements to apply for ACIC-KIF incubation and seed funding:

  1. Incorporation – Must be a registered Private Limited Company or LLP in India

  2. Promoter Ownership – At least 51% Indian ownership

  3. Stage of Development – Early-stage startups with a working prototype, MVP, or validated proof of concept

  4. Sector Preference – Innovative solutions focusing on technology or social impact

  5. Government Recognition – Startups recognized by DPIIT are preferred

Meeting these criteria ensures the startup is ready for mentorship, funding, and growth support under ACIC-KIF.

Application Process

Applying to ACIC-KIF is straightforward but requires careful preparation.

Step 1: Visit the Official Website

Access the ACIC-KIF portal to find detailed guidelines, programs, and application forms.

Step 2: Create an Account

Register on the portal with:

  • Startup name

  • Founder details

  • Contact information

Step 3: Complete the Application Form

Provide comprehensive information about your startup, including:

  • Startup Overview – Mission, vision, and business concept

  • Problem Statement & Solution – Clearly define the problem and your solution

  • Market Analysis – Target customers, competition, and market size

  • Business Model – Revenue strategy and growth plan

  • Financial Projections – Costs, revenues, and fund utilization

  • Team Composition – Skills and expertise of founders

Step 4: Submit Required Documents

Essential documents include:

  • Certificate of Incorporation

  • DPIIT Recognition Certificate (if available)

  • Pitch Deck

  • Financial Statements (if available)

  • Founders’ CVs

Step 5: Selection Process

  • Screening: Initial evaluation based on innovation, scalability, and alignment with ACIC-KIF objectives

  • Pitch Presentation: Shortlisted startups present their ideas to the selection committee

  • Due Diligence: Assessment of feasibility, financials, and operational readiness

  • Onboarding: Successful startups are inducted into the incubation program, gaining mentorship, funding, and infrastructure

Funding Details

Startup India Seed Fund Scheme (SISFS)

  • Amount: Up to ₹50 lakh

  • Purpose: Product development, market entry, operational costs

  • Disbursement: Milestone-based

  • Eligibility: Startups incorporated in the last 2 years with innovative products or services

ACIC-KIF Seed Fund

  • Amount: Up to ₹50 lakh

  • Instrument: Equity-free, debt, or a combination

  • Eligibility: Startups incubated at ACIC-KIF for at least 3 months

  • Reporting: Quarterly financial reporting and annual audits

Tips for a Successful Application

  1. Define Problem-Solution Fit Clearly – Show how your solution addresses a real-world challenge.

  2. Demonstrate Market Knowledge – Highlight customers, competitors, and industry trends.

  3. Showcase Scalability – Illustrate the potential for regional, national, or global growth.

  4. Highlight Team Strength – Present the expertise, skills, and experience of your founding team.

  5. Provide Realistic Financial Projections – Include a clear fund utilization plan.

  6. Prepare a Strong Pitch Deck – Use visual storytelling and clear messaging to create impact.

Success Stories

Startups supported by ACIC-KIF have achieved remarkable milestones:

  • AgriSmart Innovations: Developed AI-based farm monitoring solutions and scaled operations nationally

  • HealthTrack Tech: Leveraged mentorship and seed funding to develop innovative healthcare solutions

  • EcoSustain Labs: Brought sustainable products to market using incubation resources

These success stories show the impact of combining funding, mentorship, and a structured incubation ecosystem.

Benefits Beyond Funding

ACIC-KIF provides much more than financial support:

  • Mentorship from experienced entrepreneurs and industry experts

  • Access to co-working spaces, labs, and infrastructure

  • Networking opportunities with investors, corporates, and ecosystem partners

  • Skill development through workshops, bootcamps, and seminars

  • Exposure to commercialization strategies, investor pitching, and market expansion

FAQs

Q1: Can startups outside Tamil Nadu apply?
Yes, ACIC-KIF accepts applications from startups across India.

Q2: Is prior funding required to apply?
No, startups at early stages with a prototype or MVP are eligible.

Q3: Is equity required to receive funding?
No, ACIC-KIF offers equity-free seed funding, allowing founders to retain control.

Q4: How long does the incubation program last?
The program duration varies based on startup requirements and growth stage, typically 6–12 months.

Contact Information

Conclusion

For early-stage startups, applying to ACIC-KIF is a golden opportunity to access funding, mentorship, and a structured ecosystem. By following the application steps, preparing a strong proposal, and leveraging the incubation resources, founders can turn innovative ideas into scalable, impactful businesses.

Whether you are building a tech-driven startup, a socially impactful solution, or a sustainability-focused venture, ACIC-KIF provides the tools, network, and guidance to accelerate your journey and maximize success.