Tag Archive for: early-stage funding India

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How to Apply for Seed Fund Incubator at Dayananda Sagar Entrepreneurship Research & Business Incubation Foundation

DERBI

Introduction

In India’s rapidly growing startup ecosystem, early-stage funding can make the difference between an idea remaining on paper and transforming into a scalable business. Dayananda Sagar Entrepreneurship Research & Business Incubation Foundation (DERBI), based in Bengaluru, Karnataka, is a leading incubator supporting technology-driven startups.

DERBI provides access to seed funding, mentorship, infrastructure, and industry networks under the Startup India Seed Fund Scheme (SISFS). This article offers a comprehensive guide on how to apply for DERBI’s incubation programs, including eligibility criteria, application steps, benefits, and tips for a successful application.

1. About DERBI Foundation

The Dayananda Sagar Entrepreneurship Research & Business Incubation Foundation (DERBI) was established to bridge the gap between innovation and commercialization. Operated under the umbrella of Dayananda Sagar University, DERBI is recognized by the Department of Science & Technology (DST) and the Ministry of Electronics & Information Technology (MeitY) as a Technology Business Incubator.

Vision and Mission

  • Vision: To nurture early-stage tech startups and create a sustainable entrepreneurial ecosystem.

  • Mission: To provide startups with funding, mentorship, and industry connections to scale their innovations successfully.

Key Focus Areas

DERBI primarily supports startups in sectors such as:

  • Information Technology & AI

  • IoT and Robotics

  • AgriTech and FoodTech

  • HealthTech and MedTech

  • CleanTech and Renewable Energy

  • Social Entrepreneurship and Education Technology

2. Understanding DERBI Seed Fund Programs

DERBI offers two main programs to support startups at different stages:

A. GALLOP – Seed Fund Incubation Program

  • Duration: Up to 2 years

  • Funding: ₹10 Lakhs to ₹40 Lakhs

  • Focus: Early-stage startups with working prototypes

  • Support Includes:

    • Mentorship in technology, business strategy, and marketing

    • Access to labs and prototyping facilities

    • Guidance on market entry, customer acquisition, and scaling

    • Networking opportunities with investors, corporates, and experts

    • Assistance in fundraising and commercial partnerships

GALLOP is ideal for startups that have a prototype or minimum viable product (MVP) and are ready to scale.

B. PACE – Pre-Incubation Program

  • Duration: 3–4 months

  • Focus: Nascent ideas and early-stage entrepreneurs

  • Support Includes:

    • Mentoring using the Stanford BioDesign methodology

    • Business model refinement

    • Customer discovery and market validation

    • Workshops and training on entrepreneurship fundamentals

PACE helps startups refine ideas, validate their market potential, and prepare for full-scale incubation.

3. Eligibility Criteria

Startups applying for DERBI’s seed fund programs must meet both SISFS and DERBI-specific eligibility:

SISFS Requirements

  • DPIIT Recognition: Preferred but not mandatory

  • Legal Status: Private Limited Company, LLP, or Partnership

  • Startup Age: Typically less than 3 years for early-stage programs

  • Annual Turnover: Should not exceed ₹100 Crores in any financial year

  • Government Funding History: Should not have received more than ₹10 Lakh for prototype development

DERBI-Specific Requirements

  • Technology-driven innovation with high commercial potential

  • Working prototype or proof-of-concept

  • Strong founding team with technical and entrepreneurial skills

  • Willingness to incubate physically or virtually at DERBI

  • Preference for startups in DERBI’s focus sectors

4. Step-by-Step Application Process

Applying for DERBI’s seed fund involves a structured process:

Step 1: Register on Startup India Portal

Step 2: Apply via DERBI Website

Step 3: Prepare Application Documents

  • Company registration certificate

  • PAN card and bank account details

  • Proof of concept or prototype documentation

  • Detailed business plan including market, competition, and revenue model

  • Funding requirement and utilization plan

  • Team profile with roles and expertise

Step 4: Screening

  • DERBI evaluates applications for innovation, feasibility, and market potential

Step 5: Pitch Presentation

  • Shortlisted startups present to a panel of mentors, investors, and domain experts

Step 6: Due Diligence

  • Legal, financial, and technical verification of the startup

Step 7: Onboarding & Fund Disbursement

  • Selected startups join DERBI incubation

  • Funds disbursed in tranches based on milestones

5. Benefits of Joining DERBI Foundation

💰 Seed Funding

  • Up to ₹40 Lakhs for early-stage tech startups

🧠 Mentorship

  • Guidance from successful entrepreneurs, domain experts, and investors

🏢 Infrastructure & Labs

  • Co-working spaces, prototyping labs, and advanced tools for development

🌱 Business Development Support

  • Assistance with fundraising, go-to-market strategies, and scaling

🌍 Networking Opportunities

  • Investor meets, corporate partnerships, and startup ecosystem events

📚 Skill Development

  • Workshops, bootcamps, and training in business, tech, and entrepreneurship

6. Success Stories

DERBI has helped multiple startups transform their ideas into scalable businesses:

  • AgriBot: Robotics and IoT solutions for smart agriculture

  • MediTrack: AI-powered healthcare analytics platform

  • SolarInnovate: Renewable energy solutions for rural and urban markets

  • EduTech Solutions: Technology-driven learning platforms

These startups have successfully leveraged DERBI’s resources, funding, and mentorship to achieve market validation and growth.

7. Why Choose DERBI Foundation

  • Government-recognized incubation under SISFS

  • Strong focus on technology-driven startups

  • Access to experienced mentors and investors

  • World-class labs, prototyping tools, and co-working spaces

  • Proven track record of scaling early-stage startups

  • Extensive networking and funding opportunities

8. Tips for a Successful Application

  1. Clearly articulate your problem statement and innovative solution

  2. Highlight your market validation and traction metrics

  3. Present a strong founding team with complementary skills

  4. Provide realistic financials and milestone-based funding plan

  5. Demonstrate the scalability and commercialization potential of your solution

  6. Emphasize any social or environmental impact

9. Contact Information

DERBI Foundation
Dayananda Sagar University, Bengaluru, Karnataka – 560068
📧 Email: info@derbifoundation.com
🌐 Website: https://derbifoundation.com/
📞 Phone: +91-6366885507

10. Conclusion

The Dayananda Sagar Entrepreneurship Research & Business Incubation Foundation (DERBI) is a launchpad for tech innovators, providing early-stage funding, mentorship, and infrastructure to turn ideas into scalable ventures.

Through programs like GALLOP and PACE, DERBI equips startups with the resources and guidance needed to navigate challenges, validate ideas, and expand their business.

For technology-driven entrepreneurs in Bengaluru and across India, DERBI offers an unparalleled opportunity to access funding, mentorship, and incubation support. 🚀

Apply today and transform your innovative idea into a successful, market-ready business.

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How to Apply for Seed Fund Incubator at JSSATE Science and Technology Entrepreneurs’ Park (JSS STP)

JSS STP

Introduction

In today’s rapidly evolving startup landscape, the right guidance, funding, and mentorship can make all the difference between an idea and a thriving business. One such institution paving the way for innovation is the JSS Science and Technology Entrepreneurs’ Park (JSS STP), housed within JSS Academy of Technical Education (JSSATE), Bengaluru.

Recognized under the Startup India Seed Fund Scheme (SISFS), JSS STP is dedicated to nurturing early-stage entrepreneurs by providing access to funding, technical infrastructure, and business mentorship.

This article serves as a complete guide on how to apply for the Seed Fund Incubator at JSS STP, along with eligibility criteria, step-by-step application details, and insights into why JSSATE’s incubator has become a preferred destination for emerging founders across India.

1. About JSSATE Science and Technology Entrepreneurs’ Park (JSS STP)

The JSS Science and Technology Entrepreneurs’ Park (STP) was established under the guidance of the JSS Mahavidyapeetha, Mysuru, a renowned educational institution with decades of contribution to technical education and innovation in India.

Located within JSS Academy of Technical Education (JSSATE), Bengaluru, the park serves as a hub for technology-driven entrepreneurship, bridging the gap between academia and industry.

Its primary objective is to promote entrepreneurship among students, researchers, and innovators, enabling them to convert innovative ideas into viable commercial ventures.

Through strategic collaborations with the Department of Science and Technology (DST), Startup India, and various industry partners, JSS STP offers not just funding but also a nurturing ecosystem that drives real-world innovation.

2. Overview of the Seed Fund Program

Under the Startup India Seed Fund Scheme (SISFS), JSS STP offers financial assistance to early-stage startups to support prototype development, testing, market validation, and scaling.

This scheme ensures that deserving startups get the critical funding support required to move from the idea stage to a full-fledged business.

Funding Components Include:

  • 💡 Grant Support (Up to ₹20 Lakhs):
    For prototype development, product trials, and proof-of-concept validation.

  • 🚀 Seed Investment (Up to ₹50 Lakhs):
    For startups ready for commercialization and early market entry.

The fund aims to help founders navigate the initial challenges of building a business, bridging the crucial “valley of death” between innovation and investor readiness.

3. Eligibility Criteria

Startups applying for the JSS STP Seed Fund must meet the eligibility conditions as prescribed under the SISFS framework and the incubator’s internal policies.

Here’s what you need to qualify:

  1. ✅ DPIIT Recognition:
    The startup must be recognized by the Department for Promotion of Industry and Internal Trade (DPIIT).

  2. ✅ Entity Type:
    The startup should be a Private Limited Company, LLP, or Registered Partnership Firm in India.

  3. ✅ Startup Age:
    Should be less than 10 years old from the date of incorporation.

  4. ✅ Annual Turnover:
    Should not exceed ₹100 crores in any financial year.

  5. ✅ Innovation & Differentiation:
    Must be working on a novel, technology-driven, and scalable idea with clear problem-solving potential.

  6. ✅ Indian Ownership:
    At least 51% shareholding should be held by Indian promoters.

  7. ✅ Stage of Development:
    Should be in the prototype or early validation stage, not yet raised significant external funding.

4. Application Process: Step-by-Step Guide

Applying for the Seed Fund at JSSATE Science and Technology Entrepreneurs’ Park involves a structured process designed to identify and support the most promising ventures.

Step 1: Register with Startup India

Visit www.startupindia.gov.in and obtain DPIIT recognition for your startup.

Step 2: Choose JSS STP as Your Incubator

While applying under the Startup India Seed Fund Scheme, select “JSS Science and Technology Entrepreneurs’ Park (JSSATE, Bengaluru)” as your preferred incubator.

Step 3: Prepare Required Documents

You’ll need the following documents for submission:

  • DPIIT Recognition Certificate

  • Certificate of Incorporation

  • Detailed Pitch Deck

  • Founder/Team Profiles

  • Business Plan & Market Research

  • Fund Utilization Plan

  • Financial Statements (if available)

Step 4: Online Application

Submit your complete proposal either through the Startup India portal or directly on JSS STP’s official website.

Step 5: Screening Process

The applications are reviewed for eligibility, innovation, and scalability potential. Shortlisted startups are invited for a pitch session.

Step 6: Pitch Presentation & Evaluation

A jury of experts including academicians, investors, and industry professionals evaluate the startup’s business model, innovation quotient, and execution plan.

Step 7: Selection & Funding

Selected startups receive the seed fund in tranches, linked to their performance and milestone achievements.

5. Benefits of Incubation at JSS STP

Startups joining JSS STP gain access to a powerful ecosystem of resources and opportunities that go far beyond funding.

Here’s what makes JSS STP special:

  1. 💰 Seed Funding Support:
    Early-stage funding up to ₹50 lakhs to turn your prototype into a market-ready product.

  2. 🧠 Expert Mentorship:
    One-on-one guidance from successful entrepreneurs, industry leaders, and JSSATE faculty.

  3. 🧩 Technical Infrastructure:
    Access to labs, testing facilities, co-working spaces, and prototyping tools on campus.

  4. 🌍 Networking & Industry Linkages:
    Connect with angel investors, venture capitalists, and government stakeholders.

  5. 📚 Business Development Workshops:
    Training in fundraising, marketing, IP protection, and financial management.

  6. ⚙️ Access to Academic Resources:
    Collaboration with JSSATE’s engineering and management departments for R&D support.

  7. 🌱 Sustainability and Impact Focus:
    Encouragement for startups building solutions in sustainability, healthcare, clean energy, and social impact.

6. Focus Sectors Supported by JSS STP

JSS STP supports startups across a range of sectors with high potential for innovation and scalability, including:

  • HealthTech & MedTech

  • AgriTech

  • Clean & Renewable Energy

  • Internet of Things (IoT)

  • Artificial Intelligence & Machine Learning

  • Robotics & Automation

  • EdTech

  • Social Impact & Sustainability

This diverse sectoral focus ensures that both tech-driven and socially impactful ventures receive equal attention and support.

7. Success Stories

Over the years, JSS STP has incubated numerous successful startups that have gone on to raise funding, scale operations, and make a measurable impact.

A few notable examples include:

  • SmartR Energy: Developing smart monitoring systems for renewable energy optimization.

  • AgroTech Innovations: Empowering farmers with affordable AgriTech tools for data-driven cultivation.

  • MedAssist: A healthcare solution providing teleconsultation tools for rural India.

These success stories underline how JSS STP doesn’t just fund startups — it builds impactful innovators who create value for society.

8. Contact Details

📍 JSS Science and Technology Entrepreneurs’ Park (JSS STP)
JSS Academy of Technical Education (JSSATE),
Dr. Vishnuvardhan Road, Uttarahalli-Kengeri Main Road, Bengaluru – 560060

📧 Email: info@jssstp.org / jssate@jssstp.org
🌐 Website: https://www.jssstp.org
📞 Phone: +91-80-2861-2565

9. Conclusion

The JSSATE Science and Technology Entrepreneurs’ Park (JSS STP) has become a launchpad for innovators who dream of building solutions that truly make a difference.

By combining technical expertise, business mentorship, and access to the Startup India Seed Fund Scheme, JSS STP ensures that startups get the perfect mix of funding and strategic support to scale confidently.

If you have a groundbreaking idea but lack the initial push — JSS STP could be your ideal starting point. Its holistic incubation model ensures you’re not just building a startup but also shaping the future of innovation in India.