Startup Seed Fund (Zerodha CSR Initiative)
By FSID, IISc
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Quick Answer
FSID invites early-stage deep-tech startups in Sustainability, CleanTech, and HealthTech to apply for seed funding and incubation support under the Zerodha CSR initiative.
- Funding amount
- Varies
- Funding type
- Grant
- Provider
- FSID, IISc
- Application deadline
- Closed
- Location
- Open to startups registered in India
Results & next round
Applications for this round closed on 17 July 2026. The organiser has not published a selection list that we can verify yet.
Selections for this programme are announced by FSID, IISc. 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 FSID Startup Seed Fund, powered by the Zerodha CSR initiative, is designed to accelerate innovation in early-stage deep-tech startups. This program targets science-led solutions with significant potential to create meaningful societal and environmental impact within the Sustainability, CleanTech, and HealthTech sectors. Operating under the renowned FSID STEM Cell deep science incubator at the Indian Institute of Science (IISc), this initiative provides critical financial backing alongside comprehensive incubation services. It aims to support ventures that are developing cutting-edge technologies and scientific breakthroughs, helping them transition from concept to commercial success and address pressing global challenges. The program leverages FSID's decades of experience in nurturing deep science startups, offering a unique ecosystem that combines academic rigor with market-driven development.
Eligibility
See if you're eligible
Full eligibility criteria — entity type, stage, sector, founder profile and registration requirements — plus your fit for this program. Create a free account to view.
Grant providers
About FSID, IISc The Foundation for Science, Innovation and Development (FSID) is a Section 8 (not-for-profit) company incorporated in August 2020 and promoted by the Indian Institute of Science (IISc), Bengaluru. It carries forward over 25 years of IISc's…
Learn moreBenefits & Funding
- Fund type
- Grant
- Equity
- Equity-free
- Repayment
- Non-repayable
What You Get
The Zerodha CSR initiative provides non-repayable grant funding to selected deep-tech startups, alongside FSID's comprehensive incubation ecosystem. This includes fully furnished, rental-free physical space on the IISc campus and access to IISc labs and prototyping facilities. Startups also benefit from dedicated technical and business mentoring from IISc faculty and industry experts, cloud credits, a peer network, and connections to angel investors, VCs, and corporates for future funding rounds.
- Funding source
- CSR funded
- Bootstrap friendly
- Yes
Timelines & Process
Selection Process
The selection process for the FSID Startup Seed Fund involves a rigorous and repeatable evaluation of entrepreneurs and business ideas. Applications are reviewed by a jury comprising the Core Team of FSID, faculty from IISc and other academic institutions, financial and legal experts, partner organizations, and domain experts from the industry. Parameters for evaluation include the strength of the Entrepreneurial Team, clarity of the Customer Problem Definition, novelty of the Technology & Intellectual Property, analysis of the Competitive Landscape, market potential, viability of the Business Model, Financials, and the potential for Societal Impact. Shortlisted startups may be invited for further presentations or interviews.
Application Process
- 1
Apply Online
Submit your application through the Google Form, including your business plan or pitch deck.
You - 2
- 3
- 4
- 5
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 kind of startups is this program looking for?
We are specifically looking for early-stage deep-tech startups developing science-led solutions in the fields of Sustainability, CleanTech, and HealthTech that have the potential for significant societal and environmental impact.
Does the program take equity?
No, this specific initiative, funded through Zerodha's CSR, provides grant funding and does not take any equity in your company.
What are the key benefits of joining this program?
Beyond the grant funding, benefits include rental-free physical incubation space on the IISc campus, access to IISc labs and prototyping facilities, technical and business mentorship, cloud credits, networking opportunities, and connections to follow-on investors.
What is the application deadline?
The last date to apply for this call is July 17, 2026.
Sources
Data on this page is compiled from official program and provider references.
