Introduction
India’s startup ecosystem is evolving rapidly, and early-stage funding has become a critical component in transforming innovative ideas into scalable businesses. Among the premier incubation platforms in India, IIT Mandi Catalyst stands out as a technology-driven incubator supporting startups in diverse sectors, including AI, renewable energy, MedTech, agritech, and deep-tech solutions.
As part of the Startup India Seed Fund Scheme (SISFS), IIT Mandi Catalyst provides startups with seed funding, mentorship, technical guidance, and networking opportunities. By combining financial support with hands-on guidance, the incubator enables entrepreneurs to validate, develop, and commercialize their innovative solutions effectively.
This article provides a comprehensive guide on how to apply for seed funding at IIT Mandi Catalyst, including eligibility criteria, application process, benefits, success stories, and tips for a successful application.
1. About IIT Mandi Catalyst
IIT Mandi Catalyst is the innovation and incubation center of Indian Institute of Technology Mandi, designed to support early-stage startups and entrepreneurs. Its mission is to bridge the gap between technology innovation and commercialization.
Vision
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Promote entrepreneurship and innovation among technology-driven startups
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Provide seed funding, mentorship, and technical infrastructure
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Facilitate startups’ access to investors, industry partners, and government programs
Focus Sectors
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AI, Machine Learning, and Data Analytics
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Renewable Energy and CleanTech
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HealthTech and MedTech
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Agritech and Rural Innovation
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Robotics, IoT, and Deep-Tech
IIT Mandi Catalyst’s incubation model ensures startups receive holistic support, combining funding, mentorship, networking, and technical guidance to scale their operations.
2. Understanding the Seed Fund at IIT Mandi Catalyst
Access to seed funding is critical for startups to bridge the gap between idea validation and market entry. IIT Mandi Catalyst offers startups financial assistance under the Startup India Seed Fund Scheme (SISFS).
Funding Options
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Prototype & MVP Development (Grant up to ₹20 Lakhs)
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Support for proof-of-concept, prototype development, and pilot testing
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Helps startups validate their solution and refine the product-market fit
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Market Entry & Commercialization (Debt/Equity up to ₹50 Lakhs)
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Funding to scale operations, launch products, or expand market reach
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Assistance with marketing, regulatory approvals, and investor readiness
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The funding is milestone-based, ensuring startups demonstrate measurable progress before each tranche is disbursed.
Why Choose IIT Mandi Catalyst Seed Fund?
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Access to technical infrastructure and prototyping labs
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Mentorship from domain experts, successful entrepreneurs, and investors
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Networking opportunities with corporates, VCs, and government programs
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Support for product commercialization and market scaling
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Recognition as a IIT Mandi Catalyst incubated startup
3. Eligibility Criteria
Startups applying for the IIT Mandi Catalyst seed fund must meet the following requirements:
Basic Requirements
✅ DPIIT-recognized startup under Startup India
✅ Incorporated as a Private Limited Company, LLP, or Partnership
✅ Not older than 10 years from incorporation
✅ Annual turnover below ₹100 crore in any financial year
✅ Minimum 51% Indian ownership
✅ Developing a product, service, or technology with scalability potential
Preferred Sectors
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Technology-driven solutions in AI, IoT, Robotics, and Deep-Tech
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Renewable Energy and Sustainability
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HealthTech and MedTech
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Agritech and Rural Innovations
Preference is given to startups that demonstrate innovation, commercial potential, and societal impact.
4. Step-by-Step Application Process
The application process for IIT Mandi Catalyst seed fund is structured as follows:
Step 1: Register on Startup India Portal
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Complete DPIIT recognition on the Startup India portal
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Only registered startups are eligible for SISFS funding
Step 2: Select IIT Mandi Catalyst as Your Incubator
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Under the SISFS section, choose IIT Mandi Catalyst for incubation support
Step 3: Fill Out the Application Form
Provide detailed information about:
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Startup overview and vision
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Problem-solution fit and innovation
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Market analysis and competitive landscape
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Founding team background and technical expertise
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Funding requirements and milestone plan
Step 4: Submit Supporting Documents
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DPIIT recognition certificate
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Incorporation certificate
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Founders’ KYC and PAN
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Business plan or pitch deck
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Financial projections and technical specifications
Step 5: Screening and Evaluation
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Preliminary Screening: Shortlisting based on innovation, scalability, and market potential
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Pitch Presentation: Shortlisted startups present their solutions to mentors and investors
Step 6: Selection and Funding
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Selected startups are onboarded into IIT Mandi Catalyst incubation program
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Milestone-based funding is released
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Startups gain access to mentorship, infrastructure, and business development support
5. Benefits of Joining IIT Mandi Catalyst Seed Fund Program
The IIT Mandi Catalyst seed fund provides a combination of financial, technical, and strategic support:
✅ Financial Assistance
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Up to ₹50 Lakhs in seed funding for prototype, MVP, and commercialization
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Milestone-based funding ensures efficient use of resources
✅ Mentorship
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Guidance from domain experts, entrepreneurs, and investors
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Support in product development, regulatory compliance, and commercialization
✅ Infrastructure Support
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Access to co-working spaces, labs, and prototyping facilities
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Assistance with testing, validation, and technical resources
✅ Networking Opportunities
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Connect with investors, corporates, ecosystem partners, and global startups
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Participate in workshops, demo days, and startup competitions
✅ Visibility & Recognition
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Recognition as an IIT Mandi Catalyst incubated startup
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Opportunities to showcase products and solutions nationally and internationally
6. Success Stories
Several startups have benefited from IIT Mandi Catalyst seed fund:
1. AgriDrone Innovations
A startup providing drone solutions for precision farming, expanded operations and partnered with multiple agri-businesses.
2. MediScan AI
HealthTech startup offering AI-based diagnostic tools, successfully implemented in hospitals across India.
3. SolarTech Solutions
Renewable energy startup providing affordable solar solutions to rural households, scaled nationally and gained investor funding.
These success stories demonstrate the impact of IIT Mandi Catalyst’s seed fund, combining funding, mentorship, and infrastructure to accelerate growth.
7. Tips for a Successful Application
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Highlight Innovation: Clearly explain your unique value proposition and problem-solving approach
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Show Traction: Include pilot studies, prototypes, early users, or revenue
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Strong Founding Team: Showcase complementary skills and commitment
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Market Validation: Present research supporting demand for your product/service
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Clear Financial Plan: Demonstrate fund utilization and expected milestones
8. Contact Information
📍 Address:
IIT Mandi Catalyst
Indian Institute of Technology Mandi, Kamand, Himachal Pradesh – 175005
📧 Email: catalyst@iitmandi.ac.in
🌐 Website: www.iitmandi.ac.in/catalyst
📞 Phone: +91 1905 267000
Conclusion
The IIT Mandi Catalyst seed fund is an excellent opportunity for early-stage startups to access funding, mentorship, and technical infrastructure. By providing milestone-based funding, domain expertise, and networking opportunities, the incubator equips startups to move from concept to commercialization successfully.
Entrepreneurs working in AI, IoT, HealthTech, Agritech, Renewable Energy, and Deep-Tech sectors can leverage IIT Mandi Catalyst’s support to scale their innovations and achieve market success. Applying for the IIT Mandi Catalyst seed fund can transform your startup journey, enabling you to build sustainable, high-impact ventures.
