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How to Apply for Seed Fund Incubator at BIL-Ryerson Technology Startup Incubator Foundation

BIL-Ryerson Incubator

Introduction

India’s startup revolution is being driven by a new wave of entrepreneurs who are not just building businesses but shaping the future of innovation. However, for most early-stage founders, two barriers persist — access to funding and structured incubation support.

That’s where the BIL-Ryerson Technology Startup Incubator Foundation (BRTSIF) steps in.

Located in Mumbai, BRTSIF is a leading incubation platform established as a collaboration between Bombay Innovation and Leadership (BIL) and Toronto Metropolitan University (formerly Ryerson University), Canada. Supported by the Department for Promotion of Industry and Internal Trade (DPIIT) and other government bodies, it serves as a global-standard incubator for Indian startups.

This article provides a complete roadmap on how to apply for seed funding and incubation at BIL-Ryerson, along with details on eligibility, programs, benefits, and success stories — everything a founder needs to know to take their idea from concept to commercialization.

1. About BIL-Ryerson Technology Startup Incubator Foundation (BRTSIF)

The BIL-Ryerson Technology Startup Incubator Foundation was established in 2014 as a joint initiative between the Bombay Stock Exchange Institute Ltd. (BIL) and Ryerson University’s DMZ (Digital Media Zone), Canada — one of the world’s top university-based incubators.

This Indo-Canadian collaboration brings global startup expertise, mentorship, and access to international markets to Indian founders. The incubator is recognized under the Startup India initiative and is also supported by the Department of Science & Technology (DST) and MSME ministry.

Vision

To create a globally competitive innovation hub that nurtures India’s most promising startups through mentorship, funding, and international exposure.

Mission

  • To empower entrepreneurs through structured incubation, seed funding, and access to global networks.

  • To bridge the gap between Indian startups and global innovation ecosystems.

  • To accelerate early-stage ventures in technology, fintech, healthcare, education, and sustainability.

2. Key Highlights of BRTSIF

✅ Joint India–Canada Collaboration:
Offers international exposure through Ryerson’s DMZ network in Toronto.

✅ Recognized Incubator:
Supported under Startup India, NIDHI, and other national innovation schemes.

✅ Funding Support:
Provides seed funding under Startup India Seed Fund Scheme (SISFS) and other government programs.

✅ Strong Corporate & Academic Partnerships:
Collaborations with BSE Institute, Canadian universities, and Indian corporates.

✅ Global Exchange Opportunities:
Short-term residency and exchange programs for startups to explore North American markets.

✅ Over 200 startups supported, with many securing follow-on funding and global recognition.

3. Focus Sectors at BRTSIF

The incubator focuses on high-impact, innovation-driven sectors including:

  • FinTech & Financial Inclusion

  • EdTech & Learning Solutions

  • HealthTech & Life Sciences

  • CleanTech & Sustainability

  • AI, Data Analytics & IoT

  • Smart Cities & Mobility

  • MediaTech & Digital Platforms

The cross-border support structure allows these startups to not only grow in India but also tap into the North American market through Ryerson’s DMZ global network.

4. Understanding the Seed Fund and Incubation Program

BRTSIF’s incubation program combines seed funding, mentorship, investor access, and global learning. It operates in both pre-incubation and full incubation formats.

A. Pre-Incubation Phase

  • Duration: 3–6 months

  • Focus: Idea validation, business model design, and prototype development

  • Deliverables: MVP readiness and market validation

B. Full Incubation Phase

  • Duration: 12–24 months

  • Focus: Product-market fit, customer traction, investment readiness, and scaling

  • Support: Funding, mentoring, access to investors, and global linkages

C. Seed Funding Support

The incubator offers financial assistance through:

  • Startup India Seed Fund Scheme (SISFS):
    Up to ₹20 lakhs (grant) for prototype development.
    Up to ₹50 lakhs (investment) for commercialization.

  • BRTSIF Seed Fund:
    Additional financial support for market testing and pilot projects.

Funding is milestone-based and tied to performance and deliverables.

5. Eligibility Criteria

To apply for seed funding and incubation at BRTSIF, startups must meet these eligibility requirements:

✅ DPIIT-Recognized Startup
Must be registered as a DPIIT-recognized entity under Startup India.

✅ Entity Type
Should be a Private Limited Company, LLP, or Registered Partnership Firm.

✅ Age of Startup
Less than 10 years from the date of incorporation.

✅ Turnover Limit
Not exceeding ₹100 crore in any financial year.

✅ Stage of Development
Proof of concept, prototype, or early commercialization stage.

✅ Innovation Requirement
The product/service should involve innovation or improvement in technology, process, or business model.

✅ No Prior SISFS Funding
Startups that have already received SISFS support from another incubator are not eligible for a second grant.

6. Step-by-Step Application Process

Here’s how to apply for incubation or seed funding at BRTSIF:

Step 1: Registration on Startup India Seed Fund Portal

Step 2: Select BRTSIF as Incubator

Choose BIL-Ryerson Technology Startup Incubator Foundation from the list of SISFS-approved incubators.

Step 3: Submit Application

Prepare and upload the following:

  • Business plan/pitch deck.

  • Problem-solution fit and innovation details.

  • Prototype or MVP information.

  • Founder and team details.

  • Financial projections and milestone plan.

Step 4: Screening & Evaluation

Applications are reviewed by the Seed Fund Evaluation Committee comprising industry experts, investors, and faculty members.

Evaluation parameters:

  • Market potential and scalability.

  • Founding team competence.

  • Technology and innovation level.

  • Social or economic impact.

Step 5: Pitch Presentation

Shortlisted startups pitch their ideas before the Selection Committee.

Step 6: Selection & Onboarding

Successful applicants are selected for incubation, followed by signing of an MoU and onboarding into BRTSIF’s program.

Step 7: Funding Disbursement

Seed fund is released in tranches based on milestone achievements and progress reports.

7. Benefits of Incubation at BRTSIF

Here’s what makes BRTSIF one of India’s most sought-after incubators:

✅ Seed Funding Support
Get up to ₹50 lakhs in milestone-linked seed funding.

✅ Global Mentorship
Access mentors from both Indian and Canadian startup ecosystems.

✅ International Market Exposure
Opportunity to connect with global investors, mentors, and accelerator programs.

✅ Investor Connects & Demo Days
Pitch directly to angel investors, venture capitalists, and corporate funds.

✅ Infrastructure Support
Co-working spaces, meeting rooms, and access to BSE Institute facilities.

✅ Training & Workshops
Entrepreneurship programs, leadership workshops, and investor readiness bootcamps.

✅ Networking & Collaboration
Regular events, startup showcases, and global exchange programs via Ryerson DMZ.

✅ Follow-on Funding & Scale Support
Assistance in raising Series A or institutional investment.

8. Success Stories

Over the years, BRTSIF has incubated and supported 200+ startups, many of which have achieved remarkable milestones.

  • Peel-Works: A retail-tech platform connecting FMCG brands with small retailers, now expanded across India.

  • Arth Design: Developed smart urban infrastructure solutions, now working with Indian Smart City Missions.

  • uTrade: Built a fintech platform offering algorithmic trading tools; raised institutional funding.

  • CureAI: Health analytics startup providing AI-based diagnostic tools used globally.

These stories underline how BRTSIF helps founders transform innovation into business success.

9. Why Choose BIL-Ryerson (BRTSIF)?

Here’s why BRTSIF stands out among India’s incubation programs:

✅ Backed by international expertise via Ryerson DMZ, Toronto.
✅ Access to BSE’s financial and corporate ecosystem.
✅ Supported by Startup India, DST, and MSME.
✅ Offers global market exposure — a rare advantage for Indian startups.
✅ Track record of nurturing high-impact, scalable ventures.

If your startup is innovation-led and growth-ready, BRTSIF provides the ideal platform to grow locally and scale globally.

10. Contact Information

📍 Address:
BIL-Ryerson Technology Startup Incubator Foundation
BSE Institute Ltd., Phiroze Jeejeebhoy Towers, Dalal Street, Fort, Mumbai – 400001, India

📧 Email: info@brtsif.com | incubator@bseindia.com
🌐 Website: https://brtsif.com
📞 Phone: +91-22-2272 1234

Conclusion

The BIL-Ryerson Technology Startup Incubator Foundation (BRTSIF) represents the perfect blend of Indian entrepreneurial energy and global innovation best practices.

With its Indo-Canadian collaboration, robust mentorship network, and funding opportunities, BRTSIF provides early-stage founders with everything they need — from incubation to internationalization.

If you are a startup founder looking to scale your innovation with global support, applying to BRTSIF could be your most strategic next move.

Innovation knows no borders — and at BIL-Ryerson, your ideas get the wings they deserve.

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How to Apply for Seed Fund and Incubation Support at Research and Innovation Circle of Hyderabad

RICH Hyderabad

Introduction

India’s innovation landscape is growing at an unprecedented pace — with startups, universities, and research institutions driving change across sectors. Yet, one of the key challenges that persists is the gap between research and commercialization. Great ideas often remain confined to labs, unable to reach markets or make tangible impact.

To bridge this gap, the Research and Innovation Circle of Hyderabad (RICH) was established by the Government of Telangana as a strategic initiative to connect innovators, startups, researchers, and investors. Acting as a “Science-to-Startup” bridge, RICH enables promising innovations to transition from research labs to viable, market-ready enterprises.

If you are a startup founder, academic researcher, or innovator looking to translate your R&D into real-world impact — this article will guide you through everything about RICH: its programs, eligibility, seed funding opportunities, and how to apply.

1. About Research and Innovation Circle of Hyderabad (RICH)

The Research and Innovation Circle of Hyderabad (RICH) was founded in 2017 as a Government of Telangana initiative under the Telangana State Innovation Cell (TSIC). It operates as a non-profit organization, functioning as a bridge between academia, research, startups, government bodies, and industries.

RICH’s primary focus is to accelerate the commercialization of research and technology emerging from Hyderabad’s premier institutions — such as the University of Hyderabad, IIIT-H, IIT Hyderabad, NIPER, CCMB, and others.

Vision

To make Hyderabad a global hub for innovation, research translation, and entrepreneurship by fostering collaboration among academia, industry, and government.

Mission

  • Bridge the gap between research and commercialization.

  • Enable innovators and startups to access funding, mentorship, and industry validation.

  • Support high-impact projects in healthcare, agriculture, environment, and deep tech.

  • Build an innovation-driven economy in Telangana.

Key Highlights

  • Established by the Government of Telangana in collaboration with major research institutions.

  • Acts as a facilitator for startups and innovators seeking funding or commercialization support.

  • Focus areas: Life sciences, Agriculture, Environment, and Sustainability.

  • Acts as a nodal agency connecting innovation stakeholders — startups, academia, VCs, and government.

  • Runs multiple innovation programs, including the Healthcare Innovation Challenge and Agri-Startup Network.

2. The RICH Seed Fund and Incubation Support Framework

While RICH itself is not a conventional startup incubator, it partners with incubators, accelerators, and investors to provide structured support to startups. The organization plays a facilitator and enabler role, ensuring that research-led startups can access funding and ecosystem support.

Key Support Offered by RICH

  1. Seed Funding Facilitation

    • RICH collaborates with government seed funds, CSR funds, and venture capitalists to help early-stage startups secure capital.

    • Startups with innovative technologies or lab prototypes can get connected to the Startup India Seed Fund Scheme (SISFS) or BIRAC-Biotechnology Ignition Grant (BIG) programs through RICH’s partner network.

  2. Incubation & Acceleration Access

    • RICH connects startups to leading incubators in Hyderabad, including:

      • T-Hub

      • AIC-CCMB

      • IKP Knowledge Park

      • AgHub (PJTS Agricultural University)

      • WeHub (Women Entrepreneurs Hub)

  3. Innovation & Collaboration Networks

    • RICH provides innovators access to a multi-sectoral network of R&D labs, government departments, and industries for collaboration and pilot projects.

  4. IP and Technology Commercialization Support

    • RICH helps innovators identify potential industry partners, manage intellectual property, and license technologies to commercial players.

  5. Sector-Specific Initiatives

    • Agri Innovation Network: Supporting agri-tech startups working on sustainable solutions.

    • HealthTech Accelerator: Facilitating the transition of biomedical research to market-ready healthcare products.

    • Environment & Sustainability Vertical: Backing startups working on climate resilience, waste management, and clean energy.

3. Eligibility Criteria for Support through RICH

RICH’s programs are open to a wide variety of stakeholders — from research scholars to early-stage startups.

Eligibility Overview

✅ Startup or Innovator Profile:

  • Early-stage startups with innovative products or services in RICH’s focus sectors.

  • Researchers or faculty members with a commercially viable technology or patent.

  • Enterprises registered as Private Limited Companies, LLPs, or Registered Partnerships.

✅ Stage of Development:

  • Proof of Concept (PoC) or Prototype stage preferred.

  • Startups seeking funding for validation, testing, or early commercialization.

✅ Recognition:

  • DPIIT-recognized startups receive preference.

  • Technologies aligned with Telangana’s priority sectors (agri-tech, life sciences, environment) are prioritized.

✅ Geographical Scope:

  • While Hyderabad-based startups are preferred, innovators from across India can apply if their project aligns with Telangana’s innovation ecosystem.

4. Step-by-Step Process to Engage with RICH

Step 1: Identify Your Innovation Area

Visit the official website — www.rich.telangana.gov.in — and explore the various verticals (Health, Agri, Environment, etc.). Identify which domain your startup or research falls into.

Step 2: Register / Submit Proposal

Submit your proposal via RICH’s Innovation Submission Form on the website. Include:

  • Executive summary of your idea or technology.

  • Current stage (idea, prototype, market-ready).

  • Details of your organization / team.

  • Funding requirement and proposed use of funds.

Step 3: Screening & Evaluation

RICH’s expert committee evaluates proposals based on:

  • Innovation and market potential.

  • Technology readiness and scalability.

  • Feasibility of commercialization.

  • Team competence and alignment with RICH objectives.

Step 4: Connection with Ecosystem Partners

Shortlisted startups are mapped to the right incubators, mentors, or investors through RICH’s network.

Step 5: Funding and Support Facilitation

Startups are guided to relevant funding schemes like SISFS, BIG, or venture networks. RICH assists in proposal refinement, documentation, and introductions.

Step 6: Pilot Projects & Commercialization

Once supported, startups can collaborate with RICH’s institutional partners to validate technology, conduct field trials, and launch commercially.

5. Benefits of Association with RICH

✅ End-to-End Innovation Ecosystem
From concept validation to funding facilitation, RICH ensures innovators find the right partners at every stage.

✅ Government Backing
As a Government of Telangana initiative, RICH provides access to policy incentives, schemes, and public-sector pilot projects.

✅ Access to Research Infrastructure
Collaborations with IIT-H, CCMB, NIPER, IIIT-H, and more provide startups access to world-class labs and facilities.

✅ Investor and Industry Connects
RICH bridges innovators with industry stakeholders, CSR funds, and angel networks.

✅ Sector Expertise
Dedicated verticals ensure tailored support in healthcare, agriculture, and sustainability.

✅ Visibility & Brand Advantage
Being associated with RICH boosts credibility with government bodies, investors, and corporate partners.

6. RICH’s Notable Programs and Initiatives

a. Health Innovation Program

In partnership with CCMB and NIMS, this program identifies healthcare startups developing diagnostic devices, AI-based health solutions, and biotech innovations.

b. Agri Innovation Network (AgIN)

Connects agri-research institutions with startups to scale innovations in sustainable farming, food processing, and agri-input technologies.

c. Environment Innovation Vertical

Supports startups working on waste-to-value, renewable energy, and circular economy projects.

d. Innovation Challenges

RICH regularly launches Innovation Challenges inviting solutions for pressing societal issues. Selected startups receive funding facilitation and pilot support.

7. Success Stories & Impact

Since its inception, RICH has played a critical role in transforming Hyderabad into an innovation-driven economy.

🌱 Agritech Success: Startups supported under RICH’s AgIN network have deployed IoT-based farm solutions improving water-use efficiency by 25%.
🧬 HealthTech Innovations: Biomedical startups linked via RICH have developed low-cost diagnostic tools in collaboration with NIMS.
💧 Environment Impact: RICH-enabled clean tech startups have launched waste recycling models adopted by Hyderabad’s municipal bodies.

Through its facilitation, RICH has enabled dozens of startups to secure funding, pilot opportunities, and industry collaborations.

8. Why Choose RICH?

  • Direct access to Telangana’s innovation ecosystem.

  • Acts as a government-backed facilitator for research translation.

  • Strong linkages with academic institutions and incubators.

  • Supports cross-sectoral innovation — not limited to one domain.

  • Provides non-dilutive funding access via government schemes.

  • Focus on impactful, research-led entrepreneurship.

For startups that have strong R&D or institutional roots, RICH is one of India’s most effective bridges between lab to market.

9. Contact Information

📍 Address:
Research and Innovation Circle of Hyderabad (RICH)
Irrum Manzil Colony, Punjagutta, Hyderabad, Telangana – 500082

📧 Email: info@rich.telangana.gov.in
🌐 Website: www.rich.telangana.gov.in
📞 Phone: +91 40 2322 2224

Conclusion

The Research and Innovation Circle of Hyderabad (RICH) is redefining how research becomes entrepreneurship in India. By connecting innovators, institutions, and investors, it ensures that scientific breakthroughs and technological solutions make a real-world difference.

If you are an innovator ready to commercialize your research — or a startup seeking funding and collaboration opportunities — partnering with RICH could be your gateway to growth.

Innovation begins with an idea. Impact begins with the right ecosystem. RICH is where both meet.

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How to Apply for Seed Fund Incubator at Science and Technology Park

Science and Technology Park

Introduction

India’s entrepreneurial landscape has seen a massive transformation over the past decade — from grassroots innovations to world-changing startups. But one of the key challenges for early-stage founders remains the same: access to funding, mentorship, and infrastructure.

To bridge this gap, the Science and Technology Park (STP Pune) — also known as Scitech Park — plays a crucial role in empowering innovators, researchers, and entrepreneurs to transform ideas into commercially viable ventures.

Recognized under the Startup India Seed Fund Scheme (SISFS) and supported by the Department of Science and Technology (DST), Government of India, the incubator provides grants, mentorship, and business acceleration programs for startups working in sectors such as clean energy, biotechnology, ICT, agri-tech, and social innovation.

This detailed guide explains how you can apply for seed funding at Science and Technology Park Pune, the eligibility process, benefits, and what makes it one of India’s most trusted innovation ecosystems.

Focused Keyword: Science and Technology Park seed fund

1. About Science and Technology Park Pune

Established in 1988 under the aegis of the Department of Science and Technology (DST), Science and Technology Park, Pune was one of India’s first technology business incubators designed to commercialize science-led innovations.

Over the past three decades, STP Pune has:

  • Incubated 250+ startups

  • Enabled ₹200+ crore worth of funding

  • Created 10,000+ jobs

  • Partnered with national and international innovation bodies

The park is headquartered within the Savitribai Phule Pune University (SPPU) campus and provides a strong academic-industry linkage.

Vision

To promote science, technology, and innovation as tools for socio-economic development.

Mission

To provide startups with a nurturing ecosystem, financial assistance, and technical mentorship to turn ideas into scalable businesses.

Focus Sectors

  • Clean and renewable energy

  • Environment and climate technology

  • Agri-tech and food processing

  • Biotechnology

  • ICT and digital solutions

  • Social innovation and rural technology

2. Understanding the Seed Fund Support at STP Pune

Under the Startup India Seed Fund Scheme (SISFS), Science and Technology Park provides financial and incubation support to eligible startups.

Funding Options

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

  2. Equity or Debt Support (Up to ₹50 Lakhs):
    For market entry, commercialization, and scaling operations.

Objective

To bridge the funding gap that early-stage startups face before they are ready for venture capital or angel investment.

The fund allows innovators to focus on building, testing, and validating their solutions — without worrying about immediate financial pressure.

3. Eligibility Criteria

To apply for the Science and Technology Park seed fund, startups must meet the following eligibility conditions:

✅ DPIIT-recognized startup under Startup India
✅ Incorporated as a Private Limited Company, LLP, or Partnership Firm
✅ Startup must be less than 10 years old from the date of incorporation
✅ Annual turnover below ₹100 crore in any financial year
✅ Indian founders must hold at least 51% ownership
✅ The startup must be working on an innovative product or process with commercial potential

Preferred Sectors

  • CleanTech

  • AgriTech

  • ICT and IoT

  • Biotechnology

  • Environmental Sustainability

  • Rural Development

4. Step-by-Step Application Process

Here’s a detailed guide on how to apply for the STP Pune seed fund:

Step 1: Register on the Startup India Portal

Visit the Startup India Portal and ensure your startup has DPIIT recognition — a mandatory prerequisite.

Step 2: Choose Science and Technology Park Pune as Your Incubator

Under the Seed Fund Scheme, select Science and Technology Park Pune as your preferred incubator.

Step 3: Fill the Application Form

Include details about:

  • Startup’s mission and problem statement

  • Product/service details and stage (idea, prototype, MVP, or early revenue)

  • Market analysis and target audience

  • Funding requirements and milestone plan

  • Team composition and expertise

Step 4: Upload Supporting Documents

Required documents include:

  • DPIIT certificate

  • Incorporation certificate

  • Business plan or pitch deck

  • Financial projections

  • KYC of founders

Step 5: Screening and Evaluation

Applications are screened by the STP Pune team. Selected startups are invited to pitch before an expert evaluation committee comprising mentors, industry experts, and investors.

Step 6: Selection and Onboarding

Successful applicants are onboarded into the STP Incubation Program, where they receive funding, mentorship, and networking support.

5. Benefits of Joining Science and Technology Park Pune

Joining STP Pune’s seed fund program gives startups access to a world-class ecosystem:

✅ Funding Support

Receive up to ₹50 lakhs in structured seed funding to support product development and go-to-market strategies.

✅ Mentorship

Access to seasoned mentors from industry, academia, and investor networks for product and business strategy guidance.

✅ Infrastructure Support

Use of office spaces, prototyping labs, testing facilities, and networking lounges inside the university campus.

✅ Capacity Building

Workshops, investor-readiness programs, and industry sessions to strengthen entrepreneurial knowledge.

✅ Investor Access

Connect with angel investors, VCs, and government funding agencies through demo days and investor meets.

✅ Market Access

Exposure to domestic and international markets through partnerships with global innovation networks.

6. Success Stories

Over the years, Science and Technology Park Pune has supported several successful startups, including:

  • Ecozen Solutions: A clean energy startup providing solar-powered cold storage for farmers.

  • Proxgy: IoT-based solution that raised significant investments after incubation support.

  • Varcas: Focused on renewable energy vehicles and sustainable mobility.

Each success story underscores STP Pune’s mission — to empower startups that create measurable social and economic impact.

7. Tips for a Successful Application

To increase your selection chances:

💡 Clearly define your problem statement and innovation
💡 Show early traction (prototype, pilot, or customer feedback)
💡 Highlight your founding team’s strengths
💡 Present clear financial projections
💡 Focus on scalability and impact

8. Contact Information

📍 Address:
Science and Technology Park,
Savitribai Phule Pune University Campus, Pune – 411007

📧 Email: info@scitechpark.org.in
🌐 Website: www.scitechpark.org.in
📞 Phone: +91 20 2569 1480

Conclusion

The Science and Technology Park Pune seed fund stands as one of India’s most impactful initiatives for early-stage entrepreneurs. With a legacy of nurturing innovation and enabling sustainability, STP Pune provides startups with everything they need — funding, mentorship, and access to markets.

If you are a startup aiming to make a real-world impact, applying for STP Pune’s seed fund can be the stepping stone toward transforming your innovative idea into a scalable, sustainable venture.