gradCapital Programs for Students & Projects
By gradCapital
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Quick Answer
gradCapital offers various funding programs, including no-strings-attached grants and significant investments, to support students building innovative projects and companies.
- Funding amount
- ₹83,000 – ₹2.49Cr
- Funding type
- Equity
- Provider
- gradCapital
- Application deadline
- Rolling
- Location
- Open to startups registered in India
About this funding program
gradCapital is dedicated to empowering the next generation of entrepreneurs by providing essential funding to student-led projects and companies. Recognizing the unique challenges and opportunities faced by student founders, gradCapital offers tailored support to help transform ideas into successful ventures. This initiative aims to foster innovation and entrepreneurial spirit within academic communities, encouraging students to pursue their startup ambitions while balancing their studies.
The program is structured to accommodate different stages of student ventures and levels of commitment. Whether a student is fully dedicating themselves to a project or working on an idea alongside their classes, gradCapital provides the capital needed to push these projects forward. From initial experimentation to full-scale development, gradCapital seeks to be a pivotal partner in the journey of student entrepreneurs.
By focusing specifically on the student ecosystem, gradCapital helps bridge the gap between academic research and commercial viability. This program is ideal for ambitious students who are ready to build impactful companies and are seeking financial backing and strategic guidance to accelerate their growth.
Eligibility
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Full eligibility criteria — entity type, stage, sector, founder profile and registration requirements — plus your fit for this program. Sign up to view.
Funding providers
gradCapital is a backer of student founders. It describes what it does plainly: it funds students with projects and companies. Rather than running a cohort or an incubation space, it puts money behind young people building something, and it does this through a small set of named…
Learn moreBenefits & Funding
- Amount
- ₹83,000 – ₹2.49Cr
What You Get
- ₹2.49 crore (approximately US$300k): Significant investment available for full-time student projects demonstrating strong potential and commitment.
- ₹49.8 lakh (approximately US$60k): Funding designed for students who are attending classes alongside working on their entrepreneurial ventures, supporting part-time dedication.
- ₹83,000 to ₹4.15 lakh (approximately US$1k-US$5k) no-strings attached grant: Non-dilutive grants specifically for students to experiment with and validate new ideas, offering flexibility and early-stage support.
Timelines & Process
Applications
Rolling basis
Selection Process
Applications submitted to gradCapital undergo a thorough evaluation process focusing on the innovation of the idea, the potential market impact, the strength and commitment of the student team, and the overall feasibility of the project. Reviewers assess the alignment of the project with gradCapital's mission to support student entrepreneurship. For larger funding tiers, demonstration of initial traction or a clear execution plan will be critical. Shortlisted candidates may be invited to present their projects or companies to a selection committee, which typically includes experienced entrepreneurs, investors, and mentors. The final decision is based on a comprehensive assessment of all these factors, aiming to identify and back the most promising student ventures.
Application Process
- 1
Apply Online
Submit your application through the gradCapital website, detailing your project/company and team.
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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
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 kind of projects or companies does gradCapital fund?
gradCapital funds a wide range of projects and companies led by students. This includes innovative ideas, early-stage prototypes, and established ventures that require capital for growth. The focus is on the potential and drive of the student founders.
Is there a specific legal entity required to receive funding?
While the no-strings-attached grants might be accessible to individuals with just an idea, for larger funding amounts (US$60k and US$300k), a formally incorporated company (such as a Private Limited Company or LLP) is typically required to receive the investment. This ensures legal clarity for the equity stake.
What is meant by a 'no-strings attached grant'?
A 'no-strings attached grant' means that the recipient receives the funding without any equity dilution or specific performance obligations tied directly to the grant. It is intended to give student founders the freedom to experiment, pivot, and validate their ideas without immediate pressure.
Do I need to be a full-time student to apply for funding?
No, gradCapital supports students across different commitment levels. There is a specific funding tier (approximately US$60k) designed for students who are attending classes on the side while building their projects. However, a larger investment (approximately US$300k) is available for those dedicated full-time to their ventures.
What stages of projects or companies does gradCapital support?
gradCapital supports student ventures from the very ideation stage, especially through its no-strings-attached grants, up to early-revenue or growth-stage companies. The program aims to cover the journey from an initial concept to a developed product or service.
Sources
Data on this page is compiled from official program and provider references.
