Tag Archive for: incubation support

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How to Apply for Seed Fund Incubator at B-Nest Foundation

B-Nest Foundation

Introduction

Every great idea begins as a spark — but for that spark to turn into something real, it needs fuel, guidance, and an ecosystem that believes in its potential.
In the heart of Madhya Pradesh, that ecosystem has a name — B-Nest Foundation.

Established under the Bhopal Smart City Development Corporation Limited (BSCDCL), B-Nest has quickly emerged as a catalyst for innovation in Central India. More than just an incubation center, it’s a dynamic platform that empowers startups to build solutions that make cities smarter, societies more inclusive, and technologies more impactful.

Through the Startup India Seed Fund Scheme (SISFS), B-Nest offers a full spectrum of support — from seed funding and mentorship to infrastructure and market access — ensuring that early-stage founders have every resource they need to grow.

B-Nest isn’t just an incubator — it’s a launchpad for visionaries, redefining how innovation can transform urban living, sustainability, and technological growth in emerging cities.

🏢 About B-Nest Foundation

The B-Nest Foundation, located in the capital city of Bhopal, operates under the vision of making the city a thriving hub for innovation and entrepreneurship. Founded as part of the Smart City Mission, it was conceptualized to help Bhopal go beyond being just a “smart” city — to become an innovative city where local ideas solve local and global challenges.

At its core, B-Nest was designed to empower homegrown talent — the thinkers, doers, and dreamers of Madhya Pradesh — by providing them with the right blend of support, funding, and mentorship.

Here’s what makes B-Nest unique:

  • It offers end-to-end incubation, from ideation and pre-incubation to acceleration and commercialization.

  • It connects startups with government bodies, private corporations, and investors, creating real pathways for pilots and partnerships.

  • It focuses on impact-driven entrepreneurship, supporting ideas that improve urban governance, sustainability, and quality of life.

Since inception, hundreds of startups have found their footing at B-Nest. Many of these have not only raised further investment but also become case studies in how smaller cities can lead India’s innovation story.

💡 Vision and Mission

Vision:
To build a world-class startup ecosystem in Central India that empowers entrepreneurs to solve real-world urban and social challenges using innovation, design, and technology.

Mission:

  • To provide mentorship, funding, and infrastructure for early-stage ventures.

  • To develop a pipeline of scalable, high-impact startups that emerge from Bhopal and neighboring regions.

  • To create bridges between startups, corporates, investors, and government departments, fostering a collaborative ecosystem.

  • To actively contribute to India’s Smart City Mission, Digital India, and Atmanirbhar Bharat initiatives through technology-led entrepreneurship.

🚀 Focus Sectors

B-Nest’s focus reflects the changing face of innovation in India. The incubator supports startups across sectors that align with urban innovation, sustainability, and emerging tech, such as:

  • Urban Mobility & Smart Infrastructure – IoT-enabled public transport, traffic management, and city governance tools.

  • Clean Energy & Sustainability – Renewable energy solutions, EV technologies, and green building innovations.

  • Waste Management & Recycling – Startups creating circular economy models for solid waste, plastics, and e-waste.

  • HealthTech & MedTech – Affordable healthcare delivery, diagnostic tech, and telemedicine for tier-2 and rural populations.

  • AgriTech & Rural Impact – Solutions that empower farmers through data, logistics, and financial inclusion.

  • FinTech & GovTech – Simplifying access to finance and improving governance through digital innovation.

  • Artificial Intelligence & IoT – Building smarter systems for automation, efficiency, and analytics.

  • EdTech – Tools improving learning outcomes and skilling for the next generation.

  • Women-Led & Social Enterprises – Encouraging inclusive growth and entrepreneurship for underrepresented groups.

This multi-sector focus ensures that innovation at B-Nest isn’t limited by boundaries — it’s driven by impact.

🌱 The Seed Fund Program

A key highlight of B-Nest’s work is its implementation of the Startup India Seed Fund Scheme (SISFS) — a Government of India initiative aimed at supporting early-stage startups.

Through this, B-Nest provides seed funding up to ₹50 lakhs for startups that demonstrate strong potential in innovation, scalability, and impact.

The fund is categorized into two primary stages:

  1. Prototype Development / Product Trials (Up to ₹20 lakhs)
    For startups needing financial backing to validate their product, test prototypes, and build proof of concept.

  2. Market Entry / Commercialization (Up to ₹50 lakhs)
    For startups that have validated their idea and are now ready to test their product in real markets, scale operations, or raise private investment.

But the beauty of B-Nest’s model lies beyond funding — it’s about ecosystem access. Startups get mentorship from top industry leaders, workspace facilities, access to Smart City projects, and opportunities to pilot their innovations in a live urban setting.

In essence, B-Nest is where startups get both capital and context.

🧠 Eligibility Criteria

To ensure fairness and alignment with national startup policy, B-Nest follows transparent eligibility criteria under SISFS:

  • Startup must be DPIIT-recognized under the Startup India initiative.

  • Should be incubated or willing to incubate at B-Nest.

  • Must have at least a prototype or MVP ready for testing.

  • Should be less than 2 years old from incorporation at the time of application.

  • Must not have raised more than ₹10 lakhs from other government schemes.

  • At least one founder should be an Indian citizen holding 51% equity.

  • The product must demonstrate commercial viability and job creation potential.

This ensures that funding goes to startups that are both innovative and ready to build at scale.

⚙️ Application Process

The B-Nest Foundation maintains a structured and transparent process for startup selection under the Seed Fund Program:

  1. Online Application – Founders apply via bnest.in or the Startup India portal, submitting business details, prototype information, and funding requirements.

  2. Screening & Evaluation – An expert committee shortlists startups based on innovation, feasibility, and scalability.

  3. Pitch Round – Shortlisted founders pitch before a panel of mentors, investors, and government representatives.

  4. Due Diligence – Financials, technical feasibility, and founder background are assessed.

  5. Funding Disbursement – Approved startups receive funding in tranches, linked to milestone achievements.

  6. Incubation & Mentorship – Startups join B-Nest’s active incubation cohort, gaining access to guidance, workshops, and investor connects.

This process ensures that every funded startup has both capability and commitment to deliver results.

💼 Benefits of Joining B-Nest

Startups incubated at B-Nest enjoy a well-rounded ecosystem designed for long-term success:

  • 💰 Seed Funding – Up to ₹50 lakhs through SISFS support.

  • 🧑‍🏫 Mentorship – Strategic, technical, and business mentorship from top professionals.

  • 🧩 Infrastructure – Co-working spaces, labs, and innovation facilities.

  • 🌐 Networking – Connect with investors, corporates, and government departments.

  • 🧱 Pilot Projects – Opportunity to deploy and test innovations in real city environments.

  • 🎯 Capacity Building – Regular workshops on fundraising, IP, compliance, and business growth.

  • 🗞️ Visibility & Media Support – Through Bhopal Smart City events and national startup showcases.

Together, these benefits ensure startups are not just surviving, but scaling.

🌍 Impact and Success Stories

Over the years, B-Nest has nurtured multiple startups that have transformed their industries and communities:

  • FarmEasy – Using AI and IoT to predict crop yields, empowering farmers with data-led decisions.

  • MedZio – Delivering telemedicine and diagnostic access to semi-urban and rural communities.

  • RePlast – Turning plastic waste into construction materials; piloted with Bhopal Smart City.

  • PayGrain – A FinTech startup enabling easy digital payments for rural micro-entrepreneurs.

These are not just companies — they are proof that innovation can thrive beyond metros, driving both social and economic change.

The cumulative impact?

  • Dozens of startups scaled successfully

  • Hundreds of jobs created

  • Significant growth in Bhopal’s innovation index

  • Recognition for Madhya Pradesh as a rising startup hub in India’s central region.

🧭 Why Founders Choose B-Nest

What makes B-Nest stand out among other incubators in India?

  • 🌍 Strategic Location – Positioned in the heart of India, giving startups access to under-tapped Tier-2 & Tier-3 markets.

  • 🏛️ Government-Backed – Supported by Bhopal Smart City Mission, ensuring policy support and real-world pilot opportunities.

  • 🤝 Strong Mentor & Investor Network – Direct access to experienced professionals across sectors.

  • 👩‍💻 Women & Social Entrepreneurship Focus – Dedicated support programs for inclusive innovation.

  • 📈 360° Growth Model – Covering every aspect from product to branding to scaling.

In short, B-Nest bridges the gap between local talent and global opportunity.

📩 How to Apply

Startups can apply through:

🔗 Startup India Portal
🌐 bnest.in
📧 Email: info@bnest.in

Applications should include:

  • Pitch deck

  • Business model canvas

  • Prototype or MVP documentation

Shortlisted founders will receive official communication for further evaluation and pitching rounds.

✨ Conclusion

Innovation doesn’t belong only in metro cities — it belongs wherever people dare to dream differently.
The B-Nest Foundation is proving this every single day, turning Bhopal into a beacon of entrepreneurship and innovation.

With funding, mentorship, and a thriving community, B-Nest is nurturing startups that are not only transforming their businesses but also transforming India’s innovation map — from the heart, outward.

If you have an idea waiting to take flight, this is your sign.
Apply for the B-Nest Seed Fund Program, and let your startup become the next big story to emerge from Central India’s innovation frontier.

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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.