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How to Apply for Seed Fund Incubator at K S Patel Centre for Entrepreneurship, RK University

RK University

Introduction

India’s startup ecosystem is rapidly expanding, and universities across the country are emerging as powerful engines for innovation. Among them, the K S Patel Centre for Entrepreneurship (KSPCFE) at RK University, Rajkot, has established itself as a driving force in nurturing entrepreneurial talent in Gujarat and beyond.

The centre is a recognized Startup India Seed Fund Scheme (SISFS) incubator, enabling early-stage startups to access funding, structured mentoring, and a dynamic support system. Backed by RK University’s academic excellence and industrial partnerships, the K S Patel Centre helps founders turn ideas into impactful ventures.

In this comprehensive guide, we’ll explore everything you need to know about applying for seed funding and incubation at the K S Patel Centre for Entrepreneurship — from eligibility and application steps to success stories and benefits.

1. About K S Patel Centre for Entrepreneurship, RK University

Founded as part of RK University’s innovation mission, the K S Patel Centre for Entrepreneurship (KSPCFE) is a not-for-profit incubation and entrepreneurship development centre that empowers students, innovators, and startups to transform their ideas into sustainable businesses.

Established in honor of Late Shri Keshavlal S. Patel, a visionary entrepreneur, the centre fosters an environment that blends academic learning with real-world innovation.

Recognized by Startup India, Startup Gujarat, and supported under the Startup India Seed Fund Scheme, KSPCFE offers an integrated approach to incubation, covering funding, mentorship, infrastructure, and networking.

Vision

To cultivate an innovation-driven ecosystem that nurtures entrepreneurs capable of building scalable and sustainable businesses rooted in creativity, ethics, and excellence.

Mission

  • To provide structured incubation and funding opportunities to early-stage startups.

  • To promote entrepreneurship among students and innovators across Gujarat.

  • To serve as a bridge between academia, industry, and investors.

  • To support technology-led ventures with global market potential.

2. Key Highlights of K S Patel Centre

✅ Government-Recognized Incubator Approved under Startup India Seed Fund Scheme (SISFS) and Startup Gujarat initiatives.

✅ Seed Funding Support Provides up to ₹50 lakhs in milestone-based seed funding for eligible startups.

✅ State-of-the-Art Infrastructure Modern co-working spaces, ideation labs, and prototype development facilities within the RK University campus.

✅ Industry and Investor Connects Strong partnerships with regional industries, venture networks, and government bodies.

✅ Student Entrepreneurship Programs Dedicated pre-incubation support for student innovators and campus startups.

✅ Holistic Mentorship Guidance from experts across technology, marketing, finance, and intellectual property.

✅ Focus on Regional Development Encourages innovation that creates employment and growth opportunities in Tier-2 and Tier-3 regions.

3. Focus Sectors

The K S Patel Centre for Entrepreneurship supports startups working in high-impact, innovation-oriented sectors that align with India’s development and sustainability goals.

Core Focus Areas:

  • Agritech & Food Processing

  • Healthcare & Wellness

  • CleanTech & Renewable Energy

  • Education & EdTech

  • Manufacturing & Automation

  • IT & Emerging Technologies (AI, IoT, Robotics)

  • Social Innovation & Impact Ventures

This broad sectoral approach ensures that entrepreneurs from diverse industries can find the right ecosystem for growth.

4. Seed Fund and Incubation Program

The Seed Fund Program at K S Patel Centre for Entrepreneurship provides startups with both financial assistance and structured incubation support, helping them progress from prototype to commercialization.

Program Structure

Pre-Incubation (3–6 Months)

  • Focus: Idea validation, market research, and prototype development.

  • Outcome: Minimum viable product (MVP) and business model validation.

Full Incubation (12–24 Months)

  • Focus: Market entry, customer traction, and scale-up.

  • Support: Funding, investor connects, and go-to-market strategy development.

Funding Details

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

  • Up to ₹50 lakhs (investment) for market launch and scale-up.

The funding is disbursed in milestones and closely monitored to ensure maximum impact and progress.

5. Eligibility Criteria

Startups must meet the following criteria to apply for the SISFS at K S Patel Centre for Entrepreneurship:

✅ DPIIT Recognition: Must be recognized as a startup under the Startup India initiative.

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

✅ Startup Age: Should be less than 10 years from incorporation.

✅ Turnover Limit: Annual turnover must not exceed ₹100 crore in any financial year.

✅ Stage of Development: Startup must be in the proof-of-concept, prototype, or early commercialization stage.

✅ Innovation Focus: The product or service should demonstrate technological innovation or improvement.

✅ Funding History: Startups that have already received funding under SISFS from another incubator are ineligible.

6. Application Process

Here’s a step-by-step guide on how to apply for the Seed Fund Incubation Program at K S Patel Centre:

Step 1: Startup India Registration

Ensure your startup is registered with Startup India and recognized by DPIIT.

Step 2: Access the SISFS Portal

Go to the official Startup India Seed Fund Scheme portal and choose K S Patel Centre for Entrepreneurship (RK University) as your incubator.

Step 3: Application Submission

Prepare and upload:

  • Business plan and pitch deck.

  • Product/solution overview.

  • Details of innovation and market need.

  • Financial projections and roadmap.

  • Team profiles and startup background.

Step 4: Screening and Evaluation

Applications are screened by the Seed Fund Management Committee (SFMC) based on parameters like innovation, scalability, and team strength.

Step 5: Pitch Presentation

Shortlisted startups pitch their ideas to an expert panel for final evaluation.

Step 6: Selection and Agreement

Selected startups are onboarded into the program after signing an MoU outlining terms of funding and incubation.

Step 7: Fund Disbursement

Funds are released in phases, linked to milestone achievements and progress tracking.

7. Benefits of Joining K S Patel Centre

✅ Seed Funding Support Get up to ₹50 lakhs to develop and commercialize your innovation.

✅ Expert Mentorship Access a curated network of mentors across business, design, finance, and product development.

✅ Networking & Investor Access Connect with angel investors, venture funds, and corporate partners through demo days and investor meets.

✅ Infrastructure Access Leverage co-working spaces, innovation labs, and prototyping facilities at RK University.

✅ Knowledge Workshops Regular training on financial planning, IP filing, fundraising, and leadership.

✅ Market Access Support in connecting with industry clients and distribution partners.

✅ Academic Collaboration Joint research and product testing with university departments.

✅ Post-Incubation Support Guidance for follow-on funding and scaling beyond incubation.

8. Success Stories

The K S Patel Centre for Entrepreneurship has successfully supported several startups that have gone on to achieve commercial success and recognition.

🌱 AgroHive Technologies: An AgriTech startup providing drone-based crop analytics and precision farming solutions.

💡 MedInnovate Healthcare: Developed a low-cost diagnostic device for early detection of heart diseases.

♻️ EcoCraft Energy: Clean energy startup manufacturing modular biogas units for rural India.

📱 Learnify: An EdTech platform enabling affordable digital education for underprivileged students.

These stories highlight how KSPCFE is empowering founders to innovate locally and scale globally.

9. Why Choose K S Patel Centre for Entrepreneurship

✅ Supported by Startup India and Startup Gujarat. ✅ Located within an academic ecosystem fostering innovation. ✅ Offers both seed funding and long-term mentorship. ✅ Provides exposure to industry experts and investors. ✅ Proven track record of nurturing successful regional startups. ✅ Commitment to sustainable, socially responsible entrepreneurship.

If you’re a founder with an innovative idea and the drive to grow, KSPCFE at RK University provides the foundation you need to thrive.

10. Contact Information

📍 Address: K S Patel Centre for Entrepreneurship RK University, Rajkot-Bhavnagar Highway, Tramba, Rajkot, Gujarat – 360020

📧 Email: kscenter@rku.ac.in 🌐 Website: https://rku.ac.in/entrepreneurship 📞 Phone: +91-281-2788566

Conclusion

The K S Patel Centre for Entrepreneurship is more than an incubator — it’s a catalyst for regional innovation and startup excellence. Backed by government support and RK University’s strong academic foundation, the centre gives early-stage entrepreneurs everything they need — from funding and mentorship to networks and exposure.

With its focus on sustainability, innovation, and ethical business, KSPCFE continues to shape Gujarat’s entrepreneurial landscape, turning visionary ideas into impactful ventures.

If you’re ready to scale your startup journey, now is the time to apply for seed funding at the K S Patel Centre for Entrepreneurship.

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How to Apply for Atal Incubation Centre, Manipal University Jaipur

AIC Manipal University Jaipur

Introduction

Rajasthan is quickly becoming a powerhouse in India’s startup ecosystem, and at the heart of this transformation stands the Atal Incubation Centre, Manipal University Jaipur (AIC-MUJ).

Supported by the Atal Innovation Mission (AIM), NITI Aayog, AIC-MUJ serves as a dynamic hub for innovators, entrepreneurs, and changemakers. It provides startups with access to funding, mentorship, industry connections, and a vibrant community that believes in turning bold ideas into successful businesses.

If you’re a founder seeking to grow your startup in a structured, well-connected environment, AIC-MUJ could be your launchpad. This article is your complete guide on how to apply, the benefits, and why AIC-MUJ has become one of India’s most impactful incubation centers.

1. About Atal Incubation Centre – Manipal University Jaipur

The Atal Incubation Centre – Manipal University Jaipur (AIC-MUJ) is part of the nationwide network of Atal Incubation Centres established by the Atal Innovation Mission (AIM) under NITI Aayog, Government of India.

Its goal is to nurture innovative startups and support entrepreneurs in translating their ideas into scalable and sustainable ventures.

Set up within the Manipal University Jaipur (MUJ) campus, AIC-MUJ offers an ecosystem rich with academic excellence, research facilities, mentorship, and industry collaborations.

Vision

To empower innovators to become entrepreneurs by creating a self-sustaining, innovation-driven startup ecosystem that contributes to India’s economic growth.

Mission

  • To incubate and accelerate early-stage startups.

  • To provide access to funding, mentoring, and global networks.

  • To foster an environment of creativity and problem-solving among youth.

  • To promote women entrepreneurship and regional innovation.

2. The Legacy of Manipal University Jaipur

Manipal University Jaipur is part of the prestigious Manipal Education and Medical Group (MEMG) — one of India’s leading educational conglomerates.

The university’s strong emphasis on innovation, entrepreneurship, and research laid the foundation for establishing AIC-MUJ.

MUJ provides the perfect environment for entrepreneurs, combining academic research, industry collaboration, and government support under one roof.

3. Core Objectives of AIC-MUJ

The AIC-MUJ incubator was established with a mission to transform ideas into impact.

Here’s what it aims to achieve:

✅ Support 100+ startups every year through incubation and acceleration.
✅ Promote a culture of entrepreneurship across Rajasthan and India.
✅ Encourage innovation that addresses social, environmental, and economic challenges.
✅ Bridge the gap between academic knowledge and industrial implementation.
✅ Foster collaboration among entrepreneurs, investors, and corporates.

4. Focus Areas

AIC-MUJ supports startups across diverse innovation domains, particularly focusing on technology, sustainability, and social impact.

Key Sectors of Focus:

  • Agritech & Food Tech

  • CleanTech & Renewable Energy

  • HealthTech & MedTech

  • EdTech

  • IoT, AI & Robotics

  • Smart Cities and Mobility

  • FashionTech & Design

  • FinTech

  • Women-led and Social Enterprises

This diversity allows AIC-MUJ to attract startups from all sectors — from early ideation to scaling stages.

5. Programs Offered

AIC-MUJ offers a structured incubation and acceleration program that provides all-round support for startups to grow efficiently.

Incubation Program (12–24 months)

Ideal for early-stage startups.
Includes:

  • Infrastructure support

  • Mentoring and training

  • Access to funding

  • Networking with investors and industry

Pre-Incubation Program (6 months)

Designed for students and aspiring entrepreneurs at the ideation stage.
Focuses on developing business models, MVPs, and pitch decks.

Acceleration Program (3–6 months)

For startups ready to scale or seek investor funding.
Helps in growth hacking, customer acquisition, and fundraising strategy.

6. Benefits of Incubation at AIC-MUJ

Joining AIC-MUJ gives startups access to a complete growth ecosystem — financial, technical, and strategic.

Key Benefits:

✅ Seed Funding Support:
Access to government and private grants, including the Atal Innovation Mission and Startup India Seed Fund Scheme.

✅ Mentorship & Expert Guidance:
Guidance from seasoned entrepreneurs, investors, and domain experts.

✅ Infrastructure Access:
Modern co-working spaces, labs, meeting rooms, and prototyping facilities within the MUJ campus.

✅ Investor & Corporate Connects:
Regular demo days, pitch sessions, and corporate collaborations.

✅ Training & Workshops:
Focused bootcamps on business strategy, design thinking, fundraising, and market research.

✅ Networking & Exposure:
Participation in national-level startup events and conferences.

✅ Academic Collaboration:
Collaborate with MUJ’s faculty and students for R&D and talent acquisition.

✅ Women Entrepreneurship Support:
Dedicated programs and funding access for women-led startups.

7. Eligibility Criteria

To apply for incubation or seed funding at AIC-MUJ, startups must meet the following conditions:

✅ DPIIT Recognition:
Startups must be recognized under the Startup India initiative by DPIIT.

✅ Entity Type:
Must be registered as a Private Limited Company, LLP, or Registered Partnership Firm.

✅ Startup Age:
The entity should be less than 10 years old from its date of incorporation.

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

✅ Innovation Focus:
The business idea should involve innovation, technology, or a unique value proposition.

✅ Stage:
Startups at ideation, prototype, or early commercialization stages are eligible.

8. Application Process

Here’s a simple breakdown of how to apply for incubation at AIC-MUJ:

Step 1: Visit the AIC-MUJ Website

Go to https://aicmuj.com and explore the available programs.

Step 2: Choose Your Program

Select between the pre-incubation, incubation, or acceleration programs depending on your startup stage.

Step 3: Fill the Application Form

Submit your details, including business summary, pitch deck, founder background, and problem statement.

Step 4: Screening & Shortlisting

Applications are reviewed by AIC-MUJ’s expert committee based on innovation, scalability, and team capability.

Step 5: Pitch Presentation

Shortlisted startups present their business plan to a panel of mentors and investors.

Step 6: Onboarding

Selected startups are inducted into the incubation program and assigned mentors.

9. Seed Funding Support

While AIC-MUJ provides incubation and mentoring as its core services, it also connects startups to funding sources including:

  • Atal Innovation Mission (AIM) grants

  • Startup India Seed Fund Scheme (SISFS)

  • Angel investors & venture funds

  • CSR and university-linked funds

Funding may be offered in the form of grants, debt, or equity investment, depending on startup needs and evaluation outcomes.

10. Success Stories

AIC-MUJ has incubated several high-impact startups that have gone on to raise funding, win awards, and scale across India.

💡 AgroAI: An AI-based platform helping farmers predict crop yield and manage soil quality.

🌍 Ecovate Solutions: Developing sustainable construction materials from industrial waste.

🩺 MedSys Innovations: A MedTech startup building portable diagnostic devices for rural healthcare.

🎓 LearnSmart: EdTech startup transforming online education with gamified learning tools.

👩‍🔬 HerHealth: A women-led startup focusing on menstrual health innovations.

These stories demonstrate AIC-MUJ’s ability to nurture innovation that makes a tangible difference.

11. Why Choose AIC-MUJ

✅ Backed by Atal Innovation Mission and NITI Aayog.
✅ Strong academic and industrial ecosystem through Manipal Group.
✅ Proven track record of successful startups.
✅ Access to seed funding, mentorship, and global exposure.
✅ Emphasis on innovation, sustainability, and inclusion.
✅ Located in the emerging innovation hub of Rajasthan.

12. Contact Information

📍 Address:
Atal Incubation Centre – Manipal University Jaipur
Dehmi Kalan, Off Jaipur-Ajmer Expressway,
Jaipur, Rajasthan – 303007

📞 Phone: +91-141-3999100
📧 Email: info@aicmuj.com
🌐 Website: https://aicmuj.com

13. Conclusion

The Atal Incubation Centre – Manipal University Jaipur (AIC-MUJ) is not just an incubator — it’s a bridge between innovation and opportunity.

With world-class infrastructure, experienced mentors, and funding support through the Atal Innovation Mission, it is transforming early-stage ideas into scalable, impact-driven startups.

If you’re an entrepreneur with a vision to build something meaningful, AIC-MUJ offers the perfect ecosystem to help you grow, connect, and succeed.