IFCI Scheme for Scheduled Tribe Innovators
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Quick Answer
Equity-based funding up to ₹30 lakhs for Scheduled Tribe innovators with technology-driven business ideas, along with incubation and mentorship support.
- Funding amount
- Up to ₹30L
- Funding type
- Equity
- Provider
- IIT Mandi Catalyst
- Application deadline
- Closed
- Location
- Open to startups registered in India
- Registrations needed
- Private Limited company registration
Results & next round
Applications for this round closed on 12 February 2026. The organiser has not published a selection list that we can verify yet.
Selections for this programme are announced by IIT Mandi Catalyst. Official links are listed under Sources below.
We update this page when results are published, and when the next round opens.
About this funding program
This initiative is designed to support Scheduled Tribe innovators who are building innovative and technology-driven business ideas with strong commercial potential. The program focuses on nurturing early-stage startups by providing equity-based financial support rather than loans, enabling founders to concentrate on product development and market validation without immediate repayment pressure.
The scheme aims to empower young innovators, students, and early entrepreneurs from the Scheduled Tribe community to transform their ideas into sustainable ventures. Along with funding support of up to INR 30 lakhs, selected startups benefit from incubation support, mentorship, networking opportunities, and assistance in fundraising. The program is structured to help founders move from ideation or prototype stages towards building viable, scalable commercial businesses that can create social and economic impact.
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.
Funding providers
IIT Mandi Catalyst is the technology business incubator (TBI) run by IIT Mandi from its Kamand campus in Himachal Pradesh. Launched in 2016, it was the state's first TBI. It is funded by IIT Mandi itself, the Department of Science and Technology (DST), the Ministry of…
Learn moreBenefits & Funding
- Amount
- Up to ₹30L
What You Get
Up to ₹30 lakhs in equity funding. Additionally, selected startups receive incubation support, mentorship, networking opportunities, and assistance in fundraising — all designed to help founders move from ideation/prototype to a scalable, commercially viable business.
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
Who is eligible to apply for this scheme?
The lead founder must belong to the Scheduled Tribe category and hold at least 51% shareholding in the startup. The startup should be a registered Private Limited company at the ideation, prototype, or pre-revenue stage. Students and youth with innovative, technology-driven ideas with commercial potential are also eligible.
What type of funding does the scheme provide?
The scheme provides equity-based financial support (not a loan), so there is no immediate repayment pressure. The maximum funding is up to ₹30 lakhs.
What additional support is offered beyond funding?
Selected startups receive incubation support, mentorship, networking opportunities, and assistance in fundraising.
Can a student with just an idea apply?
Yes, if the idea is innovative, commercially viable, and technology-driven. The startup must be registered as a Private Limited company, but students can incorporate before applying.
Sources
Data on this page is compiled from official program and provider references.
