Investor Led DeepTech Accelerator Program – Cohort 1
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Quick Answer
A six-month accelerator by AIC-SRM Incubation Forum designed to transform DeepTech startups from validated technology to investment-ready ventures with funding up to ₹15 Lakhs.
- Funding amount
- Up to ₹15L
- Funding type
- Grant
- Provider
- AIC-SRM Incubation Forum
- Application deadline
- Closed
- Location
- Open to startups registered in India
- Registrations needed
- DPIIT recognition
Results & next round
Applications for this round closed on 9 August 2026. The organiser has not published a selection list that we can verify yet.
Selections for this programme are announced by AIC-SRM Incubation Forum. 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 Investor Led DeepTech Accelerator Program by AIC-SRM Incubation Forum is an intensive six-month acceleration journey meticulously crafted to guide DeepTech startups through the crucial phase of transitioning from validated technology to becoming truly investment-ready ventures. This program addresses the unique challenges faced by DeepTech companies, which often require significant capital, specialized mentorship, and extensive market access to scale.
Supported by a network of leading co-investment partners, the program is designed to equip founders with the essential tools and resources. This includes personalized mentorship from industry veterans, strategic guidance on critical business aspects, and unparalleled access to investors actively seeking DeepTech innovations. The overarching goal is to accelerate the commercialization of groundbreaking technologies and facilitate their rapid scaling in the market. The curriculum is structured to cover various facets of startup growth, from technical validation and IP strategy to financial modeling and investor pitches, ensuring a holistic development approach for the participating startups.
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
Benefits & Funding
- Amount
- Up to ₹15L
- Fund type
- Grant
- Equity
- Equity-free
- Repayment
- Non-repayable
What You Get
The program provides funding support of up to ₹15 Lakhs, aimed at de-risking early-stage DeepTech ventures and accelerating their path to commercialization. Beyond direct financial aid, startups benefit from crucial product design support and MVP validation to refine their offerings. Expert guidance is offered for IP protection, ensuring your innovations are secured. Startups receive extensive support in manufacturing and scaling strategies, enabling them to plan for mass production and market expansion. The curriculum includes intensive sessions on business strategy and financial modeling, preparing founders for investor engagements. A key benefit is access to co-investment partnerships and direct investor access, facilitating follow-on funding. Participants also gain from tailored mentorship from seasoned investors and ecosystem experts, alongside comprehensive investment readiness support.
- Duration
- 6 months
- Bootstrap friendly
- Yes
Timelines & Process
Selection Process
Applications are first screened for eligibility based on DPIIT registration and Technology Readiness Level (TRL 6 and above), along with alignment to DeepTech focus sectors. A multi-stage evaluation process follows, assessing the technology's novelty, market potential, team strength, and scalability. Shortlisted startups may be invited for presentations or interviews with a selection committee comprising mentors, investors, and AIC-SRM representatives. The final selection is based on a holistic review of these factors, ensuring the cohort comprises high-potential DeepTech ventures ready for accelerated growth.
Application Process
- 1
Application Submission
Submit your detailed application through the online portal by the deadline.
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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
See the questions before you start
Download every question this programme's application form asks, so you can prepare your answers offline before opening the portal.
- 3
Line up your documents
Keep every document from the checklist ready in one folder. Missing docs are the #1 reason applications get bounced.
- 4
Submit on the official portal
Use the official application link and verify all details before final submission.
- 5
Follow up
Reach out 5–7 days after submitting to confirm receipt and ask about the review timeline.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the maximum funding amount available?
The program offers funding support of up to ₹15 Lakhs for eligible DeepTech startups. This funding is designed to help you transition your validated technology into an investment-ready venture.
What kind of startups are eligible for this accelerator?
The program is open to DPIIT-registered startups that are developing DeepTech solutions. Applicants must have a Technology Readiness Level (TRL) of 6 or above and be working within the specified focus sectors such as AI, Robotics, Medical Devices, and Clean Energy.
What does TRL 6 and above mean for eligibility?
TRL 6 signifies that your technology has been demonstrated in a relevant environment. Startups with technologies that are at or beyond this stage (TRL 6, 7, 8, or 9) are considered eligible, indicating a mature prototype or system.
What kind of support can I expect beyond funding?
Beyond financial support, the program offers a comprehensive support stack including product design and validation, IP protection guidance, manufacturing and scale-up strategy, business strategy and financial modeling, mentorship from experts, and crucial investor access with co-investment opportunities.
What is the application process and timeline?
The application process involves an initial submission, followed by a screening and evaluation phase. Shortlisted startups are then announced, leading to a due diligence process before the program officially commences. A demo day concludes the acceleration journey. The submission deadline is 9 August 2026.
Are there any geographical restrictions for applicants?
No, the program is open to eligible DeepTech startups from all states across India. There are no geographical restrictions mentioned for the location of the applying entity.
