AIC Mahindra Call for Incubation (2026 Cohort)
By AIC Mahindra e-Hub Foundation
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Quick Answer
Incubation for early-stage startups with PoC/prototype, focusing on DeepTech, robotics, EV, and life sciences.
- Funding amount
- Varies
- Funding type
- Grant
- Provider
- AIC Mahindra e-Hub Foundation
- Application deadline
- Closed
- Location
- Telangana
- Registrations needed
- Private Limited company registration
Results & next round
Applications for this round closed on 30 April 2026. The organiser has not published a selection list that we can verify yet.
Selections for this programme are announced by AIC Mahindra e-Hub Foundation. Official links are listed under Sources below.
We update this page when results are published, and when the next round opens.
About this grant
The AIC Mahindra Call for Incubation (2026 Cohort) is a meticulously structured incubation program designed for early-stage startups. It is run by AIC Mahindra e-Hub Foundation, an Atal Incubation Centre strategically established by Mahindra University in Hyderabad. The center operates under the aegis of the Atal Innovation Mission (AIM), NITI Aayog, a flagship initiative of the Government of India dedicated to fostering a culture of innovation and entrepreneurship across the country. This stage-wise incubation model is structured to support founders through critical phases of ideation, validation, and venture development, providing a robust ecosystem for growth.
AIC Mahindra plays a pivotal role in strengthening India's innovation landscape, leveraging the academic rigor and research capabilities of Mahindra University. The program aims to nurture groundbreaking deep-tech ventures that can address real-world challenges and contribute to national development. While specific equity terms and direct seed funding amounts are not publicly stated for this particular call, AIC Mahindra, as an AIM-supported incubator, facilitates access to the Startup India Seed Fund Scheme (SISFS). For empanelled startups, SISFS can provide crucial financial support, offering up to ₹20 Lakhs as a grant and up to ₹50 Lakhs as convertible debt. The core benefits of the program itself are primarily focused on comprehensive non-monetary support, leveraging the university's advanced resources and extensive network.
Participants gain access to a dedicated on-campus workspace at Mahindra University in Hyderabad, fostering a collaborative and innovative environment. The program offers a suite of specialized laboratories, including state-of-the-art maker labs, advanced robotics labs, cutting-edge EV labs, and sophisticated life sciences labs. These facilities are critical for hardware and deep technology development, enabling startups to build, test, and refine their prototypes. Additionally, selected startups benefit from invaluable mentorship provided by experienced founders, seasoned operators, and strategic investors. This mentorship extends beyond advice, offering practical guidance on product-market fit, business model refinement, and fundraising strategies. Participants also gain valuable connections to the broader Mahindra Group ecosystem, potentially facilitating pilot projects and strategic partnerships, and access to a curated network of investors, enhancing their opportunities for follow-on funding.
Eligibility
See if you're eligible
Full eligibility criteria — entity type, stage, sector, founder profile and registration requirements — plus your fit for this program. Sign up to view.
Grant providers
AIC Mahindra e-Hub Foundation is the Atal Incubation Centre established by Mahindra University and supported by the Atal Innovation Mission at NITI Aayog, Government of India. It supports early-stage startups, combining mentoring and workspace with access to the university's…
Learn moreBenefits & Funding
- Fund type
- Grant
What You Get
The program facilitates access to the Startup India Seed Fund Scheme (SISFS), potentially offering up to ₹20 Lakhs as a grant and up to ₹50 Lakhs as convertible debt for empanelled startups. Core benefits include comprehensive non-monetary support, leveraging Mahindra University's academic rigor, research capabilities, and specialized on-campus lab facilities. The program provides a robust ecosystem for founders through ideation, validation, and venture development.
How to apply
Four steps from draft to disbursement — one action each.
- 1
Draft your application
Answer the form inside the grant tracker — AI drafts each response using your past answers, so you're not starting from a blank page.
- 2
Submit on the official portal
Use the official application link and verify all details before final submission.
- 3
Follow up
Reach out 5–7 days after submitting to confirm receipt and ask about the review timeline.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the primary focus of the AIC Mahindra Incubation program?
The program is designed for early-stage startups with a working prototype or early users, focusing on stage-wise incubation through ideation, validation, and venture development in deep technology sectors.
What kind of financial support is offered?
While the program itself offers non-monetary support, selected startups gain facilitated access to the Startup India Seed Fund Scheme (SISFS), which can provide up to ₹20 Lakhs as a grant and up to ₹50 Lakhs as convertible debt.
Are there specific industry sectors the program targets?
Yes, the program primarily focuses on DeepTech, including robotics, Electric Vehicles (EV), mobility, and life sciences/biotech. It is open to other deep technology sectors that align with the specialized on-campus lab capabilities.
Is physical presence required for the program?
Yes, selected startups must be willing to be onboarded at the Mahindra University campus in Hyderabad, Telangana. This indicates a requirement for physical presence or relocation to utilize the facilities effectively.
Who is eligible to apply for this incubation program?
Eligible applicants include startups with a working PoC or early users, registered or prepared to register as a Private Limited company in India. Solo and student founders are welcome, and a strong commitment and engagement from founders are essential.
Sources
Data on this page is compiled from official program and provider references.
