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How to Apply for Seed Fund Incubator at SSU Innovation Foundation

SSU Innovation Foundation

 

Introduction

In the heart of Odisha lies a dynamic hub of innovation — the Sri Sri University Innovation Foundation (SSUIF). Established to empower innovators, entrepreneurs, and changemakers, SSUIF is more than just an incubator — it’s a thriving ecosystem that merges spiritual values with cutting-edge entrepreneurship.

As part of the Startup India Seed Fund Scheme (SISFS) and recognized by the Atal Innovation Mission (AIM), SSU Innovation Foundation supports early-stage startups with funding, mentorship, and infrastructure to help them scale their businesses sustainably.

If you’re an aspiring founder seeking funding and structured incubation support, this article provides a detailed roadmap on how to apply for seed funding at SSU Innovation Foundation, including its focus sectors, eligibility, application process, and benefits.

1. About SSU Innovation Foundation

The SSU Innovation Foundation (SSUIF) is the official incubation centre of Sri Sri University (SSU), located in Cuttack, Odisha.

It was established to promote entrepreneurship, innovation, and social impact through technology, design, and value-based leadership. As a Section 8 company under the Ministry of Corporate Affairs, SSUIF functions as a bridge between academia and industry, providing entrepreneurs with the resources they need to develop scalable, high-impact startups.

Backed by Startup India, Startup Odisha, and Atal Innovation Mission (NITI Aayog), the incubator has become a vital part of Eastern India’s entrepreneurial landscape.

Vision

To create a world-class innovation ecosystem that blends ancient wisdom with modern business innovation — fostering entrepreneurs who build sustainable, ethical, and impactful enterprises.

Mission

  • To nurture early-stage startups through mentoring, incubation, and seed funding.

  • To create an entrepreneurial culture within universities and beyond.

  • To foster innovation in priority sectors like agriculture, healthcare, and sustainability.

  • To connect regional entrepreneurs with national and global startup networks.

2. Key Highlights of SSU Innovation Foundation

✅ Recognized by Atal Innovation Mission and Startup Odisha
Operates as a government-approved incubation centre under the Atal Incubation framework.

✅ Seed Funding Under SISFS
Provides up to ₹50 lakhs in seed funding for product development and commercialization.

✅ Holistic Support Model
Combines technical, financial, and spiritual mentorship to nurture balanced entrepreneurship.

✅ Strong Industry-Academia Network
Collaborates with investors, corporates, and research experts to support innovation-driven growth.

✅ Focus on Social Innovation
Encourages startups that solve grassroots problems with sustainable business models.

✅ Access to Global Mentors
Connects startups with Indian and international mentors in domains like FinTech, AgriTech, and EdTech.

3. Focus Sectors at SSU Innovation Foundation

SSUIF supports startups across a diverse range of innovation-driven sectors. The incubator particularly encourages solutions aligned with India’s Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs).

Primary Focus Areas:

  • Agritech and Rural Innovation

  • Healthcare and Wellness

  • EdTech and Skill Development

  • Clean Energy and Environment

  • AI, IoT, and Emerging Technologies

  • Art, Design, and Cultural Innovation

  • Social Enterprises and Impact Ventures

The emphasis lies on ventures that promote inclusivity, sustainability, and long-term social impact.

4. Seed Fund Program Overview

The Startup India Seed Fund Scheme (SISFS) at SSU Innovation Foundation provides financial support to startups in their early stages of growth.

This fund helps entrepreneurs bridge the critical gap between idea validation and market entry — supporting prototype development, product testing, and initial commercialization.

Funding Details

  • Prototype Stage: Up to ₹20 lakhs (grant)

  • Commercialization Stage: Up to ₹50 lakhs (equity or debt-based funding)

Fund Utilization

The seed fund can be used for:

  • Product design and development

  • Market research and validation

  • Intellectual property registration

  • Business model refinement

  • Go-to-market activities

Key Features

  • No requirement for prior investor connections.

  • Milestone-based disbursement for better accountability.

  • Access to follow-on funding networks post-seed stage.

5. Eligibility Criteria

Startups must meet the following conditions to apply for incubation and seed funding at SSU Innovation Foundation:

✅ Must be recognized by DPIIT under the Startup India initiative.
✅ Should be a registered business entity (Private Limited Company, LLP, or Registered Partnership Firm).
✅ Startup must be less than 10 years old from incorporation date.
✅ Annual turnover must not exceed ₹100 crore in any financial year.
✅ Startup must be in the prototype or early commercialization stage.
✅ Should be working on innovation, technology, or a scalable business model.
✅ Should not have received SISFS funding from another incubator.
✅ Founders must demonstrate commitment and a viable business model for execution.

6. Step-by-Step Application Process

Here’s how you can apply for seed funding and incubation at SSU Innovation Foundation:

Step 1: Register with Startup India

Make sure your startup is recognized under the Startup India scheme by DPIIT.

Step 2: Visit the SISFS Portal

Go to the official Startup India Seed Fund Scheme (SISFS) portal and select SSU Innovation Foundation as your preferred incubator.

Step 3: Submit Application

Complete your application with the following details:

  • Executive summary and pitch deck

  • Problem-solution overview

  • Product/technology details

  • Market potential

  • Revenue and business model

  • Team and traction

Step 4: Screening

The internal selection committee screens all applications based on innovation, team capability, and scalability potential.

Step 5: Pitch Session

Shortlisted startups present before an expert panel including investors, domain specialists, and university representatives.

Step 6: Selection and Onboarding

Selected startups sign an incubation agreement with SSUIF, outlining the funding terms, mentorship plan, and milestones.

Step 7: Seed Fund Disbursement

Funds are released in stages upon achieving defined business and technical milestones.

7. Benefits of Incubation at SSU Innovation Foundation

✅ Seed Fund Support
Access to funding of up to ₹50 lakhs under the Startup India Seed Fund Scheme.

✅ Holistic Mentorship
Blend of business, technical, and ethical guidance through industry experts and academic mentors.

✅ Dedicated Infrastructure
Workspaces, labs, meeting rooms, and high-speed internet within the Sri Sri University campus.

✅ Research and Academic Collaboration
Access to SSU’s multidisciplinary academic ecosystem — engineering, management, and social sciences.

✅ Investor and Corporate Access
Facilitated connects with venture capital firms, angel investors, and corporate accelerators.

✅ Skill Development and Capacity Building
Regular workshops on finance, IP, product design, and leadership.

✅ Market Access and Demo Days
Startup showcases, networking events, and investor interactions.

✅ Sustainable Entrepreneurship Focus
Encourages startups that balance profit with purpose and planet.

8. Success Stories

SSU Innovation Foundation has already incubated over 80+ startups, many of which have achieved regional and national recognition.

Some remarkable examples include:

  • FarmEasy AgriTech: A precision agriculture startup that helps small farmers improve yield through AI-based crop analytics.

  • MedYoga: A health and wellness platform combining yoga, telemedicine, and mental wellness tracking.

  • EcoSoul: A clean-tech venture producing biodegradable alternatives to plastic packaging.

  • SkillFlow: An edtech platform empowering rural youth through skill-based microlearning.

These ventures represent SSUIF’s dedication to creating meaningful innovation with social impact.

9. Why Choose SSU Innovation Foundation

Choosing SSU Innovation Foundation means being part of a forward-thinking entrepreneurial ecosystem that values innovation, ethics, and community impact.

Here’s why it stands out:

✅ Part of Sri Sri University’s Knowledge Ecosystem
Gain access to interdisciplinary expertise from leading faculty and research departments.

✅ Holistic Entrepreneurial Development
Focuses not only on financial success but also on leadership, emotional intelligence, and ethics.

✅ Government-Recognized and Well-Funded
Supported by Startup India, Startup Odisha, and Atal Innovation Mission.

✅ Access to Global Mentorship Network
Mentors from the Indian startup ecosystem and global entrepreneurship networks.

✅ Strong Focus on Tier-2 and Tier-3 Entrepreneurs
Bridges the gap for innovators from smaller towns seeking national recognition.

✅ Follow-On Funding Support
Connects startups to national and international investors post incubation.

10. Contact Information

📍 Address:
SSU Innovation Foundation
Sri Sri University Campus,
Cuttack, Odisha – 754006

📧 Email: info@ssuinnovation.org
🌐 Website: https://ssuinnovation.org
📞 Phone: +91-671-7137777

Conclusion

The SSU Innovation Foundation is shaping the next generation of entrepreneurs by merging innovation with integrity. It stands as a beacon for startups seeking to build impactful, scalable businesses rooted in sustainable values.

With access to funding, mentorship, and a value-driven community, SSUIF ensures that entrepreneurs don’t just build companies — they build legacies.

If you have an idea that can change lives or an innovation waiting to be realized, the SSU Innovation Foundation is the place to begin. Apply today under the Startup India Seed Fund Scheme and take the first step toward making your entrepreneurial dream a reality.

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How to Apply for Seed Fund Incubator at KIIT-Technology Business Incubator (KIIT-TBI)

seed fund incubator KIIT-TBI

Introduction

Turning an innovative idea into a sustainable business requires more than just vision — it needs funding, mentorship, and the right ecosystem. For early-stage founders in India, KIIT-Technology Business Incubator (KIIT-TBI) serves as one of the most dynamic platforms driving innovation and entrepreneurship.

Located within Kalinga Institute of Industrial Technology (KIIT), Bhubaneswar, KIIT-TBI has established itself as a leader in nurturing startups through incubation, seed funding, and mentorship. Recognized by the Department of Science & Technology (DST), Government of India, KIIT-TBI supports technology-driven startups in sectors like Biotechnology, Healthcare, Clean Energy, AgriTech, and Deep Tech.

This article serves as a detailed guide on how to apply for seed fund incubator KIIT-TBI, covering eligibility, funding schemes, application process, success stories, and tips for founders looking to secure funding and scale their startups.

What is KIIT-TBI?

KIIT Technology Business Incubator (KIIT-TBI) is a not-for-profit incubation center established to promote innovation, research, and entrepreneurship across India. Backed by the Startup India Seed Fund Scheme (SISFS), Department of Biotechnology (DBT), DST, and BIRAC, KIIT-TBI has supported hundreds of startups from ideation to commercialization.

Key Offerings of KIIT-TBI:

  • Seed Funding: Financial assistance for prototype development, product scaling, and go-to-market activities.

  • Mentorship: Access to domain experts, industry leaders, and successful entrepreneurs.

  • Infrastructure: State-of-the-art labs, co-working offices, and testing facilities.

  • Networking: Exposure to investors, corporate partners, and global innovation networks.

  • Skill Development: Training, bootcamps, and capacity-building workshops for founders and teams.

KIIT-TBI’s strong research backing from KIIT University and collaboration with government innovation agencies make it a trusted ecosystem for early-stage founders.

Why Choose KIIT-TBI?

  • Equity-Free Seed Funding under the Startup India Seed Fund Scheme

  • Mentorship from IITs, IIMs, and industry veterans

  • Infrastructure & Lab Access for research and prototyping

  • Support for Innovation-Driven Sectors like HealthTech, AgriTech, AI, and Renewable Energy

  • Networking & Investor Connects for scaling your startup globally

Whether you’re building a biotech product, an IoT-based device, or a deep-tech platform, KIIT-TBI offers a complete support system from ideation to market launch.

Seed Funding Opportunities

1. Startup India Seed Fund Scheme (SISFS)

Objective:
To support startups in validation, prototype development, and market entry.

Funding Amount:
Up to ₹50 lakh (equity-free).

Eligibility:

  • DPIIT-registered startup.

  • Incorporated in India as a Private Limited Company or LLP.

  • Must have a minimum viable product (MVP) or prototype.

  • Less than 2 years old at the time of application.

Utilization:

  • Product development & testing.

  • Market entry and early operations.

  • Business development activities.

2. BIRAC SEED Fund

Supported by the Biotechnology Industry Research Assistance Council (BIRAC), this program funds startups working in life sciences and biotechnology.

Funding Amount: ₹30–₹50 lakh
Sectors: Biotech, MedTech, Healthcare, AgriTech
Support: Product validation, clinical testing, lab-to-market guidance

3. In-House KIIT-TBI Grant

KIIT-TBI also provides internal funding to incubated startups for pilot testing and scale-up.

Funding Amount: Up to ₹20 lakh
Mode: Equity, grant, or convertible note depending on the project stage

Eligibility Criteria

To apply for seed funding at KIIT-TBI, the startup must meet the following criteria:

  • Must be registered as a Private Limited Company or LLP in India.

  • At least 51% ownership must be held by Indian citizens.

  • Startup should be DPIIT-recognized or in the process of registration.

  • Should have a working prototype or MVP ready for testing.

  • The innovation must be scalable and commercially viable.

Application Process

Step 1: Visit Official Website
Go to www.kiitincubator.in and explore the Seed Fund section.

Step 2: Register Your Startup
Create your profile on the portal with startup details, team background, and business overview.

Step 3: Fill the Application Form
Include details such as:

  • Problem and solution statement

  • Business model

  • Target market and customer segments

  • Competitive advantage

  • Financial projections

  • Fund utilization plan

Step 4: Upload Documents

  • Certificate of Incorporation

  • DPIIT Recognition (if available)

  • Pitch Deck

  • Founders’ CVs

  • Financials (if applicable)

Step 5: Evaluation Process

  1. Screening: Applications reviewed for eligibility and innovation.

  2. Pitch Presentation: Shortlisted startups present to KIIT-TBI’s expert committee.

  3. Due Diligence: Assessment of scalability, market feasibility, and team capability.

  4. Funding Approval & Onboarding: Successful startups receive funding and join the incubation program.

Tips for a Winning Application

1. Show Market Readiness — Have a validated prototype or early traction.
2. Focus on Scalability — Clearly outline your growth plan and milestones.
3. Highlight a Strong Team — Complementary skills in tech, business, and marketing.
4. Be Transparent with Financials — Include fund utilization and realistic projections.
5. Craft a Compelling Pitch Deck — Make it clear, visual, and results-driven.

Success Stories

  • MyLab Discovery: A biotech startup that developed diagnostic kits and scaled nationally with KIIT-TBI support.

  • AgroAI: AI-powered agricultural analytics startup incubated and funded under SISFS.

  • MedInnovate: HealthTech venture using IoT-based devices for patient monitoring.

Each of these startups transformed their idea into a scalable venture through mentorship, funding, and exposure at KIIT-TBI.

Benefits Beyond Funding

  • Access to lab facilities and advanced R&D infrastructure

  • Mentorship from global experts and investors

  • Networking with corporate partners and venture funds

  • Regular bootcamps, hackathons, and investor summits

  • Exposure to government grants and global innovation challenges

KIIT-TBI not only provides funds but also builds an environment for long-term success.

Contact Information

📍 Address: KIIT-TBI, Campus 11, KIIT University, Bhubaneswar, Odisha
📞 Phone: +91-674-2725113
📧 Email: info@kiitincubator.in
🌐 Website: https://www.kiitincubator.in

Conclusion

If you’re an early-stage founder with a vision to disrupt industries through innovation, applying for seed fund incubator KIIT-TBI can be the first big step toward success. With world-class infrastructure, mentorship, and funding opportunities up to ₹50 lakh, KIIT-TBI provides everything a startup needs to scale.

Follow the application process, prepare a strong pitch, and make the most of this opportunity to turn your idea into impact!