Startup Grants and Funding Programs in Maharashtra — October 2026

Startup founders in Maharashtra have eight active funding and support programs available in October 2026. These opportunities encompass direct grants, seed funding, dedicated incubation schemes, and innovation challenges, provided by both state government entities and national institutions accessible to Maharashtra-based ventures. The Maharashtra startup ecosystem benefits from robust government support, notably through the Maharashtra Industries, Investment and Services Policy 2025. Key institutions like T-Hub and Sant Gadge Baba Amravati University contribute to a dynamic environment that fosters innovation and entrepreneurship across various sectors.

Active Grants and Programs for Maharashtra Startups

MBRDI Climate Tech Launchpad (T-Hub)

The MBRDI Climate Tech Launchpad 2027 is a joint initiative by Mercedes-Benz Research and Development India (MBRDI) and T-Hub. Part of the broader Sustainability Garage, this program targets student innovators developing solutions for global climate and mobility challenges. It offers up to ₹50,000 in grant funding. The 12-week acceleration framework helps participants develop climate tech prototypes from initial ideas. Support includes expert mentorship, practical prototyping workshops, and access to maker labs. The deadline for applications is 15 November 2026.

AMRUT-SRIF Business Incubation Scheme (Sant Gadge Baba Amravati University)

The AMRUT-SRIF Business Incubation Scheme 2026 provides selected innovators and young entrepreneurs in Maharashtra with a monthly stipend. Participants receive ₹25,000 per month for 12 months, totaling ₹3,00,000. This scheme is a collaboration between the Academy of Maharashtra Research, Upliftment and Training (AMRUT) and the SGBAU Research and Incubation Foundation (SRIF) at Sant Gadge Baba Amravati University. Incubation facilities include co-working space, mentorship from industry experts and experienced entrepreneurs, and access to a network of investors, partners, and peers. Eligibility requires an original business idea or technology, Maharashtra residency, age between 18 and 45, completion of 12th standard (HSC), and an annual family income under ₹8 lakh. Applicants must belong to AMRUT's target categories and commit full-time to their venture. Applications are accepted on a rolling basis.

Maharashtra Event Participation Reimbursement (Directorate of Industries, Government of Maharashtra)

Under Clause 4.1.3 (C) (iii) of the Maharashtra Industries, Investment and Services Policy 2025, the Maharashtra Event Participation Reimbursement program helps offset costs for startups attending industry events. The State reimburses up to 30% of eligible expenses, capped at ₹5 lakh for domestic events and ₹10 lakh for international events per unit. Eligible expenses are narrowly defined, covering participation fees, registration charges, and promotional materials. Startups must channel their participation through recognized industry associations for national and international summits, workshops, exhibitions, and networking events. This program operates on a rolling deadline.

Maharashtra PEF Working Capital Fund (Directorate of Industries, Government of Maharashtra)

The Maharashtra PEF Working Capital Fund is part of the Productivity & Modernisation Enhancement Fund (PEF) under the Maharashtra Industries, Investment and Services Policy-2025. It provides working capital to MSMEs in Thrust Sectors within Maharashtra. This fund targets MSMEs requiring frequent retooling of production assembly lines due to non-standardized production processes. Funds can be used for specialized machinery, upgraded equipment, advanced tools, or process improvements. The program accepts applications on a rolling basis.

Maharashtra SLIS Incentive 2025 (Directorate of Industries, Government of Maharashtra)

The Maharashtra SLIS Incentive 2025, established under the Maharashtra Industries Investment and Services Policy 2025, offers a Skill-Linked Incentive (SLIS). The Government of Maharashtra pays industries ₹20,000 for each local candidate who is skilled and subsequently employed. The maximum claim is limited to 20% of a company's total workforce capacity. This incentive aims to reduce the cost of training and recruiting local talent, encouraging industrial units in Maharashtra to participate in skilling programs and prioritize local hiring. Applications are processed on a rolling basis.

Seva First Innovation Challenge (Government of Maharashtra)

The Seva First Innovation Challenge 2026 is a key initiative by the Government of Maharashtra, under the Seva Sankalp Abhiyan. It collaborates with the Maharashtra State Innovation Society (MSInS), Kaushalyam Balam, and Ratan Tata Maharashtra State Skills University to find innovative solutions for public good. Innovators across the state are encouraged to address governmental and societal challenges across 10 key sectors. The program aims to transform promising concepts into impactful realities by connecting innovators with state machinery, fostering problem-solving and entrepreneurial spirit. Up to ₹10,00,000 in funding is available. The deadline for this challenge is 30 October 2026.

Maharashtra State-Level Hackathon (Directorate of Industries, Government of Maharashtra)

Clause 4.2.2 (D) of the Maharashtra Industries, Investment and Services Policy 2025 established the Maharashtra State-Level Hackathon for students enrolled in traditional and professional courses. Awards and recognition are given to the top ten innovative ideas or startups identified through this initiative. The policy text specifies awards and recognition as the reward, without a monetary value. For student teams, the primary value lies in visibility with the state industries department and a credential for future grant and incubation applications. This hackathon is an annual event with rolling deadlines for applications.

Maharashtra Startup Seed Funding Grant (Directorate of Industries, Government of Maharashtra)

Early-stage startups in Maharashtra can apply for non-repayable seed funding grants under the Maharashtra Startup Seed Funding Grant, part of the Maharashtra Industries, Investment and Services Policy-2025. This competitive grant targets innovative and scalable business ideas. The funding supports early activities such as product development, market validation, team expansion, and operational setup, reducing initial financial risk. Startups also gain credibility and visibility from government-backed support, which can attract private investment and partnerships. Only promising ideas are funded. Applications are accepted on a rolling basis.

Before Applying

Potential applicants should review the specific eligibility criteria for each program. The AMRUT-SRIF Business Incubation Scheme, for instance, requires Maharashtra residency, an age between 18 and 45, completion of 12th standard, and an annual family income under ₹8 lakh. The Maharashtra PEF Working Capital Fund is designed for MSMEs in Thrust Sectors needing frequent retooling, while the Maharashtra SLIS Incentive focuses on industries hiring local, skilled candidates. The Maharashtra State-Level Hackathon is specifically for students. Regarding deadlines, the Seva First Innovation Challenge closes today, 30 October 2026, requiring immediate action for interested parties. The MBRDI Climate Tech Launchpad has a deadline of 15 November 2026. Most other programs, including the AMRUT-SRIF Incubation Scheme, Maharashtra Event Participation Reimbursement, PEF Working Capital Fund, SLIS Incentive, State-Level Hackathon, and Startup Seed Funding Grant, operate on rolling deadlines, allowing applications throughout the year but emphasizing ongoing competition for limited resources.