i-Hub Gujarat Startup RISE 2026
By Gujarat Student Startup and Innovation Hub (i-Hub)
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Quick Answer
An initiative by i-Hub Gujarat connecting early-stage startups with leading venture capital firms and angel investors for private equity investment.
- Funding amount
- ₹50L – ₹10Cr
- Funding type
- Equity
- Application deadline
- Rolling
- Location
- Open to startups registered in India
- Registrations needed
- DPIIT recognition
About this funding program
Startup RISE (Raise Investments for Startups at Early Stage) is a flagship initiative by i-Hub Gujarat designed to bridge the gap between promising early-stage startups and India's vibrant investor community. This program offers a unique platform for founders to present their innovative business propositions directly to leading venture capital firms and angel investors from across the nation.
The initiative culminates in investor pitching sessions held as a core part of the larger Startup Conclave 2026, hosted at the prestigious Mahatma Mandir in Gandhinagar. The Conclave itself is a major ecosystem event, featuring plenary and roundtable sessions, expert-led workshops, mentoring opportunities, a startup exhibition, and even a hackathon, attracting a diverse audience including startups, VCs, angel networks, industry mentors, universities, and industry chambers.
Startup RISE aims to accelerate the growth of participating ventures by not only facilitating crucial funding connections but also providing invaluable expert feedback to refine their investment pitches and unlock strategic partnership opportunities. It serves as a critical stepping stone for startups ready to scale and make a significant 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
Gujarat Student Startup and Innovation Hub, known as i-Hub, is a Section 8 non-profit company set up under Gujarat's Student Startup and Innovation Policy (SSIP), run by the Education Department, Government of Gujarat. It is based at the KCG Campus in Navrangpura, Ahmedabad.…
Learn moreBenefits & Funding
- Amount
- ₹50L – ₹10Cr
What You Get
Startup RISE provides a gateway for early-stage startups to secure private investments ranging from ₹50 Lakh to ₹10 Crore from leading venture capital firms and angel investors. This is not a direct grant or investment from i-Hub Gujarat but a facilitated opportunity to raise external capital. Beyond funding, selected startups benefit from direct access to potential investors through dedicated pitching sessions during Startup Conclave 2026. Participants will also receive expert feedback to significantly strengthen their investment pitches and explore strategic partnership opportunities that can accelerate their market entry and growth.
Timelines & Process
Applications
Rolling basis
Selection Process
Applications submitted for Startup RISE undergo an initial screening based on the provided documents, including the pitch deck, financial details, and business plan. Startups that meet the criteria and demonstrate strong potential are shortlisted for investor pitching sessions. These sessions provide an opportunity for founders to present their ventures directly to a panel of venture capital firms and angel investors, who will evaluate the business propositions for potential investment.
Application Process
- 1
Apply Online
Submit your application form and required documents, including your pitch deck, via the official portal.
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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 is the primary objective of Startup RISE?
Startup RISE aims to connect promising early-stage startups with leading venture capital firms and angel investors from across India to help them raise private investments for growth and expansion.
What kind of funding can I expect?
The program facilitates private equity investments from external investors, ranging from ₹50 Lakh to ₹10 Crore. i-Hub Gujarat does not provide direct funding but acts as a facilitator for investor connections.
Who is eligible to apply for Startup RISE?
Early-stage startups actively seeking private investment and prepared to present their business proposition are eligible. A mandatory DIPP/DPIIT startup certificate number is required, and startups from any Indian state can apply.
What is the application process for Startup RISE?
The application process involves submitting an online form with details such as your DIPP/DPIIT certificate number, incorporation date, revenue figures, capital sought, fund utilization plan, and a 10-12 slide pitch deck. Shortlisted startups will be invited for investor pitching sessions.
Are there any sector restrictions?
No, Startup RISE is sector-agnostic. Startups from all sectors and domains are welcome to apply.
Sources
Data on this page is compiled from official program and provider references.
