Startup Grants and Funding Programs in Maharashtra — November 2026

As of November 2026, startups in Maharashtra can access seven active programs offering grants, seed funding, incubation support, and competition opportunities. These include initiatives specific to the state, such as those from the Directorate of Industries, as well as broader institutional programs accessible to Maharashtra-based ventures.

The Maharashtra startup ecosystem is characterized by supportive government policies, a growing network of incubators, and academic institutions fostering innovation. State initiatives, guided by policies like the Maharashtra Industries, Investment and Services Policy 2025, aim to stimulate entrepreneurship and provide structured support for emerging businesses.

Active Grants and Programs for Maharashtra Startups

SARTHI Incubation at AIC IISER Pune (AIC IISER Pune Seed Foundation)

The Sarsenapati Santaji Ghorpade SARTHI Entrepreneurship Development (Incubation) Initiative is run by SARTHI (Chhatrapati Shahu Maharaj Research, Training and Human Development Institute), an autonomous body of the Government of Maharashtra. This initiative, specifically implemented at the SARTHI Incubation at AIC IISER Pune Seed Foundation (AIC-SEED), supports technology business ideas.

The program focuses on individuals from specific communities within Maharashtra. It provides financial support, including a monthly stipend, alongside incubation services. The goal is to help aspiring entrepreneurs translate innovative concepts into viable, scalable technology startups. Applications for this program close on 21 November 2026, with grant funding up to ₹3,00,000 available.

SARTHI x MAGIC Incubation 2.0 (MAGIC)

The SARTHI x MAGIC Incubation 2.0 program, in its second cohort, is open to aspiring entrepreneurs and early-stage startups with innovative ideas or early-stage products. It is managed by the Marathwada Accelerator for Growth & Incubation Council (MAGIC) in collaboration with SARTHI.

Participants receive incubation support, expert mentorship from industry veterans, and capacity building through workshops and training sessions focused on business development, strategy, and operations. The program also facilitates networking with investors, mentors, industry leaders, and a peer community. Grant funding up to ₹3,00,000 is available, and applications close on 21 November 2026.

MBRDI Climate Tech Launchpad 2027 (T-Hub)

The MBRDI Climate Tech Launchpad 2027, known as the Student Launchpad Program, is a joint initiative by Mercedes-Benz Research and Development India (MBRDI) and T-Hub. It is part of the broader Sustainability Garage – a Mercedes-Benz Initiative focused on sustainable technologies.

This program targets student innovators working on global climate and mobility challenges. It features a 12-week acceleration framework, assisting participants in developing climate tech prototypes. Support includes expert mentorship, prototyping workshops, and access to maker labs. Grant funding up to ₹50,000 is provided. The deadline for applications is 15 November 2026.

AMRUT-SRIF Business Incubation Scheme 2026 (Sant Gadge Baba Amravati University)

The AMRUT-SRIF Business Incubation Scheme 2026 offers selected innovators and young entrepreneurs in Maharashtra a monthly stipend of ₹25,000 for 12 months, totaling ₹3,00,000. This scheme is a joint effort by the Academy of Maharashtra Research, Upliftment and Training (AMRUT) and the SGBAU Research and Incubation Foundation (SRIF) at Sant Gadge Baba Amravati University.

Beneficiaries also gain access to SRIF incubation facilities, which include co-working space, mentorship from industry experts and entrepreneurs, and a network of investors, partners, and peers. Eligibility criteria include residing in Maharashtra, being aged 18 to 45, having passed 12th standard (HSC), a total annual family income under ₹8 lakh, and belonging to target categories under AMRUT's mandate. Applicants must commit full-time to their venture. This program operates on a rolling application 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 State offers to offset costs for startups participating in industry events. The Maharashtra Event Participation Reimbursement 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 specifically defined as participation fees, registration charges, and promotional materials. Participation must be channeled through recognized industry associations for national and international industry summits, workshops, exhibitions, and networking events. This is a rolling program with no specified deadline.

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 an annual Maharashtra State-Level Hackathon for students enrolled in traditional and professional courses. Awards and recognition are conferred upon the top ten innovative ideas or startups identified through this initiative.

The policy describes the reward as awards and recognition without specifying a rupee figure for prizes. For student teams, the practical value lies in gaining visibility with the state industries department and acquiring a credential that can support future grant and incubation applications. This program also operates on a rolling basis.

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

Early-stage startups based in Maharashtra can apply for non-repayable seed funding grants through the Maharashtra Startup Seed Funding Grant under the Maharashtra Industries, Investment and Services Policy-2025. This competitive program targets innovative and scalable business ideas.

This grant 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. This is a rolling program with no specified deadline.

Before Applying

Several programs outlined here have specific eligibility requirements that applicants should review carefully. The SARTHI Incubation at AIC IISER Pune targets individuals from specific communities in Maharashtra, while the AMRUT-SRIF Business Incubation Scheme has age (18-45), educational (12th standard pass), income (under ₹8 lakh annual family income), and full-time commitment criteria. The MBRDI Climate Tech Launchpad is specifically for student innovators, and the Maharashtra State-Level Hackathon targets students in traditional and professional courses.

Pay close attention to deadlines, particularly for programs with fixed application windows. The MBRDI Climate Tech Launchpad closes on 15 November 2026, and both SARTHI incubation programs (AIC IISER Pune and MAGIC) close on 21 November 2026. Missing these deadlines means waiting for future cohorts. Programs like AMRUT-SRIF and the various Maharashtra government grants operate on a rolling basis, allowing applications throughout the year, but competition for these opportunities remains high.