Tag Archive for: startup mentorship

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How to Apply for Seed Fund Incubator at Marwari Catalysts Private Limited

Marwari Catalysts

Introduction

In India’s rapidly evolving startup ecosystem, early-stage funding is often the difference between a great idea and a successful venture. Startups need not only financial resources but also mentorship, guidance, and access to networks of investors and industry experts. Marwari Catalysts Private Limited, headquartered in Jodhpur, Rajasthan, is one such accelerator making a significant impact in the Indian startup landscape.

Established to empower entrepreneurs from smaller towns and underserved regions, Marwari Catalysts offers startups a structured pathway to grow their business and achieve scalability. With a remarkable track record of accelerating over 50 startups and a 70% success rate in helping them secure seed funding (Pitchbob.io), the incubator has become a go-to resource for early-stage ventures.

The incubator’s flagship initiative, the Thrive Accelerator Program, focuses on providing startups with funding ranging from ₹25 lakhs to ₹1 crore, along with structured mentorship, workshops, and access to a network of investors and mentors. In this comprehensive guide, we will explore how startups can apply to the seed fund incubator at Marwari Catalysts, understand the program structure, meet eligibility requirements, and maximize their chances of selection.

1. About Marwari Catalysts

Marwari Catalysts Private Limited was founded with a vision to create a thriving startup ecosystem in India, particularly supporting startups from smaller towns and tier-2 cities. Unlike traditional incubators that primarily focus on metropolitan areas, Marwari Catalysts aims to democratize entrepreneurship by offering equal opportunities to innovators from less urbanized regions.

The incubator provides a comprehensive suite of services designed to guide startups through the challenging early stages of their journey. These services include:

  • Mentorship from industry experts and successful entrepreneurs.

  • Seed funding for product development, market entry, and initial scaling.

  • Co-founder matchmaking, helping entrepreneurs build strong, complementary teams.

  • Investor access to enable subsequent funding rounds.

By combining financial support with mentorship and operational guidance, Marwari Catalysts has helped numerous startups overcome early-stage obstacles and achieve measurable growth. Their approach is holistic, focusing not only on funding but also on nurturing the startup ecosystem and creating a network of entrepreneurs that can support each other.

2. Understanding the Thrive Accelerator Program

The Thrive Accelerator Program is the cornerstone of Marwari Catalysts’ offerings. It is specifically designed for early-stage startups, often at the post-MVP stage but pre-revenue or in early revenue stages.

Key Features of the Thrive Accelerator Program

  • Funding Support: Startups receive investments ranging from ₹25 lakhs to ₹1 crore, depending on their stage, sector, and potential for growth.

  • Expert Mentorship: Participants gain guidance from seasoned entrepreneurs, industry specialists, and investors who help navigate market challenges.

  • Structured Workshops: Workshops cover critical aspects of business development such as fundraising, product-market fit, operational efficiency, go-to-market strategy, and scaling.

  • Investor Networking: Startups are given opportunities to pitch to angel investors, venture capitalists, and corporate partners for follow-on funding.

  • Community Building: Access to a network of like-minded entrepreneurs fosters collaboration and learning.

The program emphasizes startups that are innovative, scalable, and capable of creating significant market impact. Sectors of focus include fintech, direct-to-consumer (D2C) businesses, augmented reality/virtual reality (AR/VR), supply chain tech, and other high-growth industries.

Marwari Catalysts is sector-agnostic to some extent but gives preference to high-impact startups with potential for exponential growth. This focus allows startups to access resources specifically tailored to their industry needs, including specialized mentors and domain-specific workshops.

3. Eligibility Criteria

To ensure the program benefits startups with genuine potential, Marwari Catalysts has established clear eligibility criteria for the Thrive Accelerator Program:

  1. Stage: Startups should be in early stages of development, typically post-MVP and pre-revenue or early revenue stages. This ensures they have validated their idea and are ready to scale.

  2. Sector Focus: Startups in fintech, D2C, AR/VR, supply chain technology, and other emerging industries are prioritized. However, innovative solutions in any high-growth sector are considered.

  3. Team Composition: A committed founding team with complementary skills is essential. Investors and mentors assess whether the team can execute the business plan effectively.

  4. Innovation: The startup must have a unique value proposition or innovative solution that addresses a significant problem in the market. This innovation can be in product design, business model, or operational methodology.

  5. Scalability: Demonstrable potential for scaling operations and achieving sustainable growth is critical. Startups should present a clear roadmap showing how they intend to expand their operations and enter new markets.

Meeting these eligibility requirements does not guarantee acceptance, but it positions startups for a strong application and evaluation process.

4. Application Process

Applying for the Thrive Accelerator Program is a multi-step process designed to identify startups with the highest potential. The process ensures that selected startups receive not only funding but also the guidance and mentorship necessary to succeed.

Step 1: Initial Application

Startups must submit an online application via the Marwari Catalysts website. The application form requires detailed information about:

  • Mission and vision of the startup

  • Product or service description

  • Market opportunity and target customers

  • Team structure and roles

Providing thorough and clear information in this step is essential, as it forms the basis of the initial screening.

Step 2: Screening and Shortlisting

The Marwari Catalysts team reviews all applications to shortlist startups that align with the program’s objectives. The screening focuses on factors such as innovation, market potential, team capability, and alignment with program goals.

Step 3: Pitch Presentation

Shortlisted startups are invited to present their business ideas to a panel of mentors and investors. The pitch is an opportunity to demonstrate:

  • Problem-solving capability

  • Traction or initial market validation

  • Unique selling proposition

  • Scalability and growth plan

This step is crucial, as it allows mentors and investors to assess the startup’s potential firsthand.

Step 4: Due Diligence

Following the pitch, Marwari Catalysts conducts a comprehensive due diligence process. This involves:

  • Reviewing financial records and projections

  • Evaluating market research and validation

  • Assessing team capabilities and operational readiness

  • Ensuring compliance with legal and regulatory requirements

Due diligence ensures that the funding is allocated to startups with the highest probability of success.

Step 5: Selection and Onboarding

Selected startups are officially onboarded into the Thrive Accelerator Program. Onboarding includes:

  • Fund disbursement according to the startup’s needs

  • Assignment of mentors and advisors

  • Access to workshops and networking events

  • Structured milestones for growth and reporting

This step marks the beginning of an intensive program designed to accelerate growth and prepare startups for follow-on funding rounds.

5. Benefits of Joining the Thrive Accelerator Program

Startups in the Thrive Accelerator Program gain access to an extensive set of resources:

Funding Support

Startups receive investments ranging from ₹25 lakhs to ₹1 crore. This funding can be utilized for:

  • Product development or enhancement

  • Market entry strategies

  • Commercialization and scaling

Mentorship and Guidance

Experienced mentors provide strategic advice, helping startups navigate challenges and refine their business models. Mentorship may include:

  • Guidance on fundraising strategies

  • Operational efficiency improvements

  • Marketing and customer acquisition tactics

  • Product-market fit refinement

Workshops and Training

Structured workshops help startups understand various aspects of business development:

  • Product design and prototyping

  • Fundraising and investor pitching

  • Marketing strategies and brand building

  • Scaling operations and entering new markets

Investor Networking

Startups have opportunities to pitch to angel investors, venture capitalists, and corporate partners for follow-on funding. Access to this network can significantly enhance the chances of raising additional capital.

Community and Networking

Being part of the Marwari Catalysts ecosystem connects startups with a community of entrepreneurs, industry experts, and investors. This network fosters collaboration, learning, and potential partnerships.

6. Success Stories

Marwari Catalysts has helped numerous startups achieve remarkable milestones. Some notable success stories include:

  • BankSathi: A fintech startup that raised over $7 million and achieved a valuation of ₹219 crore (Tracxn).

  • Immersive Labz: An AR/VR company that secured $1 million in Series A funding and expanded its operations significantly (Tracxn).

  • Upsurge: An edtech platform that raised $140K in seed funding and scaled its user base across India (Tracxn).

These examples illustrate the tangible impact of the Thrive Accelerator Program on startups’ growth trajectories.

7. Tips for a Successful Application

To improve the likelihood of selection, startups should consider the following tips:

  • Clear Value Proposition: Clearly articulate the problem and how the solution is unique.

  • Traction and Metrics: Provide measurable evidence of progress, such as revenue, user growth, or partnerships.

  • Strong Team: Emphasize the strengths and complementary skills of the founding team.

  • Market Understanding: Show deep knowledge of the target market, customer needs, and competition.

  • Scalability Plan: Present a clear strategy for growth, market expansion, and operational efficiency.

8. Contact Information

For more details or assistance:

Conclusion

Applying for the seed fund incubator at Marwari Catalysts Private Limited is a golden opportunity for early-stage startups seeking both funding and mentorship. The Thrive Accelerator Program provides a comprehensive ecosystem that empowers entrepreneurs to turn their innovative ideas into scalable businesses.

By understanding the eligibility criteria, preparing a strong application, and leveraging the program’s resources, startups can accelerate their growth, secure further investment, and achieve long-term success. With its proven track record, Marwari Catalysts continues to play a vital role in shaping India’s entrepreneurial ecosystem, particularly by empowering startups from smaller towns and emerging markets.

Whether you are a fintech innovator, a D2C brand, or a tech startup in AR/VR or supply chain, the Thrive Accelerator Program at Marwari Catalysts offers the guidance, funding, and network necessary to transform your vision into reality.

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How to Apply for Seed Fund Incubator at Startup Stairs Pvt. Ltd.

Startup Stairs

Introduction

For many early-stage founders in India, having a great idea isn’t enough. The journey from concept to commercialization demands access to funding, mentorship, infrastructure, and a guiding ecosystem. Startup Stairs Pvt. Ltd. offers exactly that — it’s an incubator and accelerator focused on helping startups in emerging, high-impact sectors like drones, AI, robotics, EVs, and the informal economy.

Recognized by DPIIT and partnered with NSDC International, Startup Stairs has positioned itself as a seed-stage incubator. Through its programs, founders can access grant funding (including from the Startup India Seed Fund Scheme, SISFS), mentorship, prototyping support, business guidance, and networks.

This article is a detailed guide on how to apply for the Seed Fund Incubator at Startup Stairs, what criteria you must fulfill, how the application process works, tips for a successful application, and what benefits you can expect if selected.

What is Startup Stairs Pvt. Ltd.?

Startup Stairs is a DPIIT-recognized incubator and seed-stage accelerator based in Gurugram, Haryana. It is also an incubation centre partner with NSDC International.

Its mission is to empower founders in sectors like drones, EVs, AI/ML, robotics, IoT, as well as social impact and informal economy ventures. Startup Stairs aims to bridge the gap between innovation and commercialization, especially for under-served founders.

  • It operates a drone-centric incubation center with facilities for design, prototyping, regulatory support, and mentoring in the drone sector.

  • It is backed by government-linked partnerships: DPIIT recognition, NSDC International stake, skill-ecosystem alignment.

  • It offers various support services: product development, mentorship, go-to-market strategy, legal/finance guidance. Key Offerings & Programs at Startup Stairs

To understand what you are applying for, it’s important to know the types of support available:

  1. SISFS / Seed Grant Funding Startup Stairs is enabled to distribute seed funding under the Startup India Seed Fund Scheme. This assists startups with prototype development, product trials, market entry, etc.

  2. Sectoral Focus Areas Key sectors include drones, AI/ML, robotics, EVs, IoT, social impact, etc. Startup Stairs also has specific incubation for drones under “Drone Planet” and regulatory / prototyping support for hardware‐oriented innovation.

  3. Mentorship & Support Services Founders get access to domain experts for strategy, product design, finance, legal, marketing, regulatory compliance (especially for hardware / drone sectors), networking and investor connections.

  4. Government & Partner Backing The incubator has recognition from Startup India, DPIIT, and has received investment/stake from NSDC International. That gives credibility and also alignment with public-funded programs.

Eligibility Criteria

To apply for the seed fund incubator at Startup Stairs, ensure your startup meets these criteria:

  • Be a registered entity in India (Private Limited, LLP, or as required)

  • Innovator / founder team with a working prototype or proof of concept or early MVP, especially if you are hardware / drone / tech sector startup

  • Focus on sectors supported by Startup Stairs (drones, AI/Robotics, EVs, etc.) or social impact / informal economy solutions.

  • Founders should hold majority ownership and have legal compliance (incorporation documents, registrations).

  • Recognized under Startup India (preferable) or willing to get recognized. Startup Stairs is DPIIT recognized.

  • Some programs may prefer startups with certain readiness (prototype, tech platform) or positive net worth in case of growth acceleration programs.

Application Process: Step by Step

Here is how you can apply for the seed fund incubator at Startup Stairs:

Step 1: Visit the Startup Stairs Portal Go to their official website: to find the incubation/accelerator application page.

Step 2: Register & Submit Basic Application Fill out basic founder details, startup name, contact, sector, idea summary, and current stage (prototype, MVP, etc.).

Step 3: Prepare and Upload Documents Typical required documents include:

  • Certificate of Incorporation

  • Proof of concept / prototype details with data/photos/tests

  • Pitch Deck explaining problem, solution, market analysis, revenue model

  • Founders’ CVs

  • Any regulatory / compliance documents if relevant (especially for drones or hardware)

Step 4: Selection & Shortlisting Applications are first screened for eligibility, sector fit, and innovation potential. Startups may be asked for further clarification.

Step 5: Mentorship / Pitch / Assessment Shortlisted startups will be invited to pitch to the Startup Stairs committee. They may get mentorship input before final selection.

Step 6: Onboarding & Funding If selected, startups are onboarded: incubation support begins, seed funding is awarded (depending on program), mentorship starts, infrastructure access provided. Monitoring and periodic evaluations follow.

Funding Details & What to Expect

While exact amounts may vary by program, here is what the seed fund incubator at Startup Stairs typically offers:

  • Seed funding under Startup India Seed Fund Scheme (SISFS) for prototype development, product trials, market entry.

  • In specific acceleration programs, grants or funding between ₹20 lakh to ₹1 crore may be available for selected startups (e.g., in Growth Acceleration Program).

  • Support services often accompany funding: mentorship, legal & financial guidance, go-to-market planning, regulatory compliance help, networking.

Tips for a Successful Application

To increase your chances of being selected:

  1. Clearly Define the Problem & Solution Show why the problem matters, who suffers, how big the market is, and how your solution is unique.

  2. Prototype / Proof of Concept Even a basic MVP or working model helps. Especially in hardware sectors like drones or IoT, evidence of prototyping or testing makes a difference.

  3. Strong Team Profile Founders should have complementary skills (technology, business, compliance). Highlight prior experience, domain knowledge, or achievements.

  4. Realistic Plan & Use of Funds Be clear how you will use the funds (product development, regulatory compliance, marketing, etc.). Set milestones.

  5. Sector Fit & Alignment Since Startup Stairs has specific focus areas, aligning with their supported sectors (drone, AI, robotics, etc.) or informal economy/social impact will help.

  6. Regulatory & Compliance Preparedness Especially for drone/hardware startups, knowledge of regulatory environment, certifications, safety, etc., helps.

  7. Good Pitch Deck & Storytelling Visual, concise, impact-oriented. Show metrics, vision, potential scalability.

What You Gain When Selected

If selected into the incubator program at Startup Stairs, you typically gain:

  • Seed Funding to convert prototype into product or get market entry

  • Mentorship with domain experts, legal, finance, marketing advisors

  • Infrastructure & Labs (especially for drone / hardware / prototyping)

  • Networking with investors, partner companies, corporates, other startups

  • Visibility & Credibility, being associated with a DPIIT-recognized incubator and NSDC link

Example or Success Initiatives

  • Startup Stairs’ Growth Acceleration Program with 4i (Integrity, Inclusion, Innovation, Impact) offered seed funding from ₹20 lakh to ₹1 crore for 20 startups, focusing on the informal sector.

  • Their platform Drone Planet helps drone startups with specialized mentors, regulatory guidance, prototyping, access to market connections.

Conclusion

Applying for the Seed Fund Incubator at Startup Stairs Pvt. Ltd. is a unique opportunity for founders in tech, hardware, drones, AI, robotics, or impact sectors to access early funding, mentorship, and infrastructure. If you align with their supported sectors, have a prototype or clear proof-of-concept, and a dedicated team, Startup Stairs could accelerate your growth significantly.

Take time to prepare a strong application: understand your market, plan your milestones, polish your pitch deck, and be ready to show why your solution matters. When done right, incubation at Startup Stairs could be the difference between a promising idea and an impactful business.

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How to Apply for Seed Fund Incubator at Startup Incubation and Innovation Centre (SIIC) IIT Kanpur

SIIC IIT Kanpur

Introduction

In India’s growing entrepreneurial landscape, the Startup Incubation and Innovation Centre (SIIC) at IIT Kanpur has become a key player in nurturing groundbreaking startups. Established in 2000 in collaboration with the Small Industries Development Bank of India (SIDBI), SIIC was created to bridge the gap between innovative ideas and market success.

Over the past two decades, it has helped build an ecosystem where early-stage founders can access mentorship, funding, research facilities, and strategic support to scale their ideas. The Seed Fund Incubator Program at SIIC IIT Kanpur, supported by the Startup India Seed Fund Scheme (SISFS), empowers promising entrepreneurs to bring their ideas to life.

If you are an early-stage founder with a strong business model and a working prototype, this guide will help you understand exactly how to apply for the Seed Fund Incubator at SIIC IIT Kanpur, the eligibility criteria, benefits, and key tips to strengthen your application.

About SIIC IIT Kanpur

The Startup Incubation and Innovation Centre (SIIC) is one of India’s oldest and most successful technology business incubators. Functioning under the Foundation for Research & Innovation in Science & Technology (FIRST), a Section 8 company promoted by IIT Kanpur, SIIC is a hub for innovation-driven entrepreneurship.

It has supported over 500 startups and 200+ innovators across sectors like CleanTech, AgriTech, MedTech, DeepTech, and Sustainable Development. SIIC provides physical incubation, virtual incubation, and funding support through government and corporate partnerships.

The centre is backed by multiple funding programs, including SIDBI, BIRAC, MeitY, and DST, allowing startups to access both seed funding and grants for product development and market entry.

Objective of the Seed Fund Incubator

The Seed Fund Incubator at SIIC IIT Kanpur aims to identify high-potential early-stage startups and provide them with both financial and infrastructural support to validate their ideas and achieve early market traction.

The program’s primary objectives are:

  • To enable innovators to transform prototypes into market-ready products.

  • To help startups achieve product-market fit and early customer validation.

  • To bridge the gap between idea-stage funding and venture capital readiness.

  • To provide access to IIT Kanpur’s labs, mentors, and research expertise.

Eligibility Criteria

Before applying, startups must ensure they meet the basic eligibility requirements for the Seed Fund Incubator at SIIC IIT Kanpur.

1. Startup Registration:
The startup must be recognized by DPIIT under the Startup India initiative.

2. Age of Startup:
The startup should be less than 2 years old from the date of incorporation at the time of application.

3. Type of Entity:
Startups registered as a Private Limited Company, LLP, or Registered Partnership Firm are eligible.

4. Stage of Development:
The startup should have a prototype or proof of concept (PoC) that can be validated within six months.

5. Innovation Criteria:
The idea should involve novel technology, social impact, or innovation in product, process, or service delivery.

6. Funding Limit:
Startups that have not received more than ₹10 lakh in funding from any other government program are eligible to apply.

Funding Support Offered

Under the Startup India Seed Fund Scheme, SIIC IIT Kanpur provides:

  • Prototype/PoC Development Funding: Up to ₹20 lakh as a grant for product development, testing, or prototyping.

  • Market Entry and Commercialization Funding: Up to ₹50 lakh as a convertible debenture or debt-linked instrument for scaling and market validation.

  • Access to Mentors and Networks: Startups gain access to IIT Kanpur’s network of faculty experts, alumni entrepreneurs, and investors.

  • Infrastructure Support: Use of research labs, testing facilities, and co-working space within IIT Kanpur’s campus.

Application Process: Step-by-Step Guide

Here’s how you can apply for the Seed Fund Incubator at SIIC IIT Kanpur:

Step 1: Visit the SIIC IIT Kanpur Website

Go to the official portal — https://siicincubator.com.

Navigate to the Programs section and select the Seed Fund Incubation Program.

Step 2: Fill Out the Application Form

Complete the online application form, including:

  • Startup overview and problem statement

  • Product or solution details

  • Business model and revenue streams

  • Market potential

  • Team profile and expertise

Step 3: Upload Required Documents

Attach all mandatory documents such as:

  • Certificate of Incorporation

  • Startup India DPIIT Recognition Certificate

  • Pitch deck and business plan

  • Financial statements (if applicable)

  • Proof of concept (prototype images, testing results, etc.)

Step 4: Preliminary Screening

SIIC’s internal committee reviews your application for completeness and innovation viability.

Step 5: Evaluation by Expert Panel

Shortlisted startups are invited to pitch to an evaluation committee comprising IIT Kanpur faculty, investors, and domain experts.

Step 6: Due Diligence and Selection

After technical and financial due diligence, selected startups are onboarded into the incubation program and receive seed funding support.

Key Benefits of Joining SIIC IIT Kanpur

  1. World-Class Infrastructure
    Access to laboratories, testing equipment, rapid prototyping facilities, and co-working spaces at IIT Kanpur.

  2. Customized Mentorship
    Regular guidance from IIT Kanpur faculty, industry experts, and entrepreneurs in residence.

  3. Networking and Investor Access
    SIIC connects startups with investors, angel networks, and corporate partners.

  4. Brand Credibility
    Being incubated at IIT Kanpur adds credibility and enhances investor confidence.

  5. Knowledge Resources
    Startups gain access to workshops, entrepreneurship boot camps, and IP assistance.

  6. Comprehensive Support Ecosystem
    From ideation to scaling, SIIC supports every stage of a startup’s journey.

Documents Required

When applying, keep the following documents ready:

  • Certificate of Incorporation

  • Startup India Recognition Certificate (DPIIT)

  • Detailed pitch deck

  • Business plan

  • Proof of prototype

  • Bank account details

  • Founders’ PAN cards and Aadhaar

  • Financial projections

Selection Criteria

Startups are evaluated based on:

  • Innovation and Technology Readiness

  • Team Capability and Execution Potential

  • Scalability and Market Fit

  • Social or Economic Impact

  • Sustainability and Long-term Vision

The evaluation panel also considers the feasibility of the business model and the clarity of the problem-solution fit.

Success Stories from SIIC IIT Kanpur

1. Noccarc Robotics:
A MedTech startup incubated at SIIC that developed the Noccarc V310 ICU ventilator in record time during the COVID-19 pandemic.

2. Phool.co:
Started as a small idea to recycle temple flowers, Phool.co now produces eco-friendly incense sticks and biodegradable alternatives.

3. HelpUsGreen:
One of India’s most celebrated social impact startups, backed by SIIC, transforming floral waste into sustainable products.

4. E-Spin Nanotech:
A deep-tech venture developing nanofiber-based filtration technology with global applications.

Each of these startups demonstrates SIIC’s capability to transform innovation into scalable business models.

Tips for a Strong Application

  • Ensure your pitch deck highlights innovation, scalability, and sustainability.

  • Clearly define your problem statement and how your startup provides a unique solution.

  • Provide realistic financial projections with a clear funding requirement.

  • Emphasize team strength and prior achievements.

  • Keep all documents concise and professional.

Conclusion

The Seed Fund Incubator at SIIC IIT Kanpur is a gateway for India’s next generation of entrepreneurs to turn ideas into impact. Whether you are working in technology, sustainability, healthcare, or social innovation, this incubator offers a powerful mix of funding, mentorship, and world-class facilities.

With over 20 years of experience and hundreds of successful startups, SIIC IIT Kanpur continues to shape India’s innovation-driven future. If you have a market-ready prototype and the passion to scale your startup, this is the opportunity to bring your vision to life.

To learn more or start your application, visit www.siicincubator.com.

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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.