Tag Archive for: Startup funding India

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How to Apply for Seed Fund Incubator at AIC-CCRI

AIC-CCRI Seed Fund

Introduction

Launching a startup in India is exciting, but early-stage founders often face challenges like limited funding, mentorship gaps, and lack of infrastructure. A structured incubator can bridge this gap, providing the resources and guidance needed to scale.

The Atal Incubation Centre – Central Coffee Research Institute (AIC-CCRI), promoted by the Coffee Board of India, is a premier incubator for startups in coffee, agro-tech, food processing, and allied sectors. By offering seed funding, mentorship, infrastructure, and networking opportunities, AIC-CCRI empowers entrepreneurs to transform innovative ideas into sustainable businesses.

This guide will cover everything you need to know about applying for the AIC-CCRI Seed Fund, including eligibility, application steps, funding programs, tips for success, and real startup examples.

What is AIC-CCRI?

AIC-CCRI is a Technology Business Incubator (TBI) under the Atal Innovation Mission (AIM), NITI Aayog, in collaboration with the Coffee Board of India. The incubator focuses on nurturing startups in coffee cultivation, processing, value addition, and sustainable agro-tech solutions.

Key Objectives:

  • Foster Innovation in Coffee & Agro-Tech: Support innovative solutions in coffee production, processing, and sustainability.

  • Provide Seed Funding: Offer early-stage financial support to accelerate growth.

  • Mentorship & Advisory: Connect startups with agriculture, technology, and business experts.

  • Infrastructure & Lab Access: Access to labs, co-working spaces, and technical facilities.

  • Networking & Market Access: Facilitate connections with investors, industry partners, and coffee exporters.

Why Choose AIC-CCRI Seed Fund?

  • Sector-Focused Incubation: Coffee, agro-tech, food processing, and sustainability.

  • Zero-Cost Infrastructure: Labs, office spaces, and research facilities provided free for selected startups.

  • Equity-Free Seed Funding: Retain ownership while receiving funding.

  • Holistic Support: Mentorship, ecosystem networking, technical resources, and market access.

Seed Funding Programs at AIC-CCRI

  1. Startup India Seed Fund Scheme (SISFS)

    • Eligibility: Registered in India (Private Limited/LLP), early-stage, prototype-ready, incubated at recognized incubator, majority Indian ownership.

    • Funding: Up to ₹50 Lakhs, milestone-based disbursement.

    • Purpose: Product development, operational costs, market entry.

  2. AIC-CCRI In-House Seed Fund

    • Eligibility: Incubated at AIC-CCRI for at least 3 months, early-stage, scalable business model.

    • Funding: Up to ₹50 Lakhs, equity/debt/mix.

    • Requirements: Quarterly financial reporting, annual audits.

Eligibility Criteria

  • Incorporation: Private Limited Company or LLP registered in India.

  • Promoter Ownership: At least 51% Indian founders.

  • Stage: Early-stage startups with working MVP or validated prototype.

  • Sector Preference: Coffee, agro-tech, food processing, sustainable solutions.

  • Recognition: Ideally DPIIT-recognized.

Application Process

  1. Visit the Official Website: Explore incubation programs and funding details.

  2. Register Your Startup: Provide startup and founder information.

  3. Complete the Application Form: Include startup overview, problem-solution, market analysis, business model, financial projections, and team info.

  4. Submit Documents: Certificate of Incorporation, DPIIT recognition, pitch deck, financials, founders’ CVs.

  5. Selection Process: Screening → Pitch Presentation → Due Diligence → Onboarding into incubation program.

Tips for a Successful Application

  • Clearly articulate the problem-solution fit.

  • Showcase market understanding and potential scalability.

  • Highlight a strong, complementary founding team.

  • Present realistic financials and a fund utilization plan.

  • Prepare a compelling, clear, and visually appealing pitch deck.

Success Stories

  • CoffeeTech Solutions: Developed IoT-enabled coffee farming systems using seed funding and mentorship.

  • AgroFood Innovations: Launched value-added food products leveraging incubator resources.

  • Sustainable Packaging Startup: Prototyped eco-friendly coffee packaging with AIC-CCRI support.

Benefits Beyond Funding

  • Mentorship from industry leaders and agricultural experts.

  • Workshops, bootcamps, and training sessions.

  • Networking with investors, clients, and industry partners.

  • Validation of business ideas in a research-backed ecosystem.

  • Market exposure and partnership opportunities.

Conclusion

Applying for AIC-CCRI Seed Fund is a golden opportunity for early-stage startups in coffee, agro-tech, and food processing. With mentorship, funding, infrastructure, and a supportive ecosystem, entrepreneurs can transform innovative ideas into scalable businesses. By following the application steps and preparing a strong proposal, startups can maximize their chances of selection and success.

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How to Apply for Seed Fund Incubator at CGLS Foundation (STEP)

CGLS Foundation STEP Seed Fund

Introduction

Launching a startup is exhilarating but comes with challenges such as limited funding, mentorship, and operational resources. The CGLS Foundation (STEP) incubator, supported by the Atal Innovation Mission (AIM), NITI Aayog, provides early-stage startups with seed funding, mentorship, and infrastructure, enabling innovators to scale their ideas efficiently.

If you are asking “how to apply for seed fund incubator CGLS Foundation STEP?”, this guide covers eligibility, funding opportunities, step-by-step application, and expert tips to strengthen your application.

About CGLS Foundation (STEP)

STEP stands for Science, Technology, and Entrepreneurship Platform, a not-for-profit initiative under the CGLS Foundation, focused on fostering innovation-driven startups.

The incubator primarily supports:

  • Technology startups solving real-world problems

  • Social impact ventures creating measurable positive change

  • Early-stage entrepreneurs seeking seed capital, mentorship, and networking

Key Offerings of CGLS Foundation STEP:

  • Zero-Cost Incubation: Access to infrastructure, workspace, and labs without upfront charges

  • Mentorship & Guidance: Connect with industry experts, investors, and successful entrepreneurs

  • Networking Opportunities: Pitch events, workshops, accelerator programs, and investor meets

  • Seed Funding: Equity-free, milestone-based financial support to kickstart operations

Eligibility Criteria

Before applying, ensure your startup meets the following requirements:

  • Company Registration: Registered Private Limited Company, LLP, or OPC in India

  • Promoter Ownership: Minimum 51% shareholding by Indian promoters

  • Stage of Development: Early-stage startup with a prototype, MVP, or validated concept

  • Sector Focus: Preference for technology-driven or innovation-led startups

  • Compliance: Recognized by DPIIT

Meeting these criteria increases your chances of being selected for incubation and funding.

Seed Fund Programs at CGLS Foundation (STEP)

1. STEP Seed Fund

  • Funding Amount: Up to ₹50 lakh

  • Purpose: Product development, proof of concept, pilot testing, and market entry

  • Eligibility: Startups incubated at CGLS Foundation for a minimum of 3 months with validated technology or service

  • Disbursement: Milestone-based, with progress monitoring

2. Startup India Seed Fund Scheme (SISFS)

  • Funding Amount: Up to ₹50 lakh

  • Purpose: Operational costs, market testing, product development, and scaling

  • Eligibility: Early-stage startups incorporated within 2 years and incubated at recognized centers like STEP

  • Disbursement: Tranche-wise based on milestone achievement

Step-by-Step Guide to Apply

Step 1: Visit the Official Website

Go to the CGLS Foundation STEP portal to understand the program details, eligibility, and benefits.

Step 2: Registration

Create an account by providing your startup and founder information.

Step 3: Submit Expression of Interest (EOI)

Include:

  • Startup overview

  • Problem statement and innovative solution

  • Market research and competitive analysis

  • Business model and revenue projections

  • Founding team profiles

Step 4: Upload Required Documents

  • Certificate of Incorporation

  • DPIIT recognition certificate

  • Pitch deck or prototype demonstration

  • Financial statements (if available)

Step 5: Screening and Shortlisting

The incubator reviews applications. Shortlisted startups are invited for:

  • Pitch presentation

  • Due diligence assessment

  • Interaction with mentors and investors

Step 6: Onboarding

Selected startups sign an incubation agreement detailing:

  • Fund disbursement schedule

  • Milestones and reporting obligations

  • Access to mentorship and infrastructure

Step 7: Fund Disbursement

Funds are released in milestone-based tranches, ensuring accountability and progress tracking.

Tips for a Successful Application

  • Problem-Solution Fit: Clearly define the problem and how your solution is unique

  • Scalability: Show potential for regional or national growth

  • Strong Team: Highlight skills, experience, and complementary expertise

  • Market Understanding: Demonstrate knowledge of target market, competitors, and opportunities

  • Financial Planning: Provide realistic projections and a clear fund utilization plan

Success Stories

  • GreenAgriTech: Launched sustainable farming solutions and scaled across Gujarat using STEP support

  • SmartMedTech: Secured ₹40 lakh seed funding to develop health-tech solutions and expand operations

These success stories demonstrate how CGLS Foundation STEP Seed Fund can transform early-stage ventures into nationally recognized startups.

Conclusion

For innovators seeking mentorship, guidance, and seed funding, CGLS Foundation STEP is a strategic platform to accelerate growth. By preparing a strong application, demonstrating innovation and scalability, and aligning with STEP’s objectives, early-stage entrepreneurs can maximize their chances of selection.