IIML EIC SportsTech Acceleration Program
By IIM Lucknow Enterprise Incubation Centre
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Quick Answer
An acceleration program by IIML EIC in collaboration with Legaxy, empowering SportsTech startups with mentorship, investment opportunities, and ecosystem access.
- Funding amount
- Varies
- Funding type
- Grant
- Application deadline
- Closed
- Location
- Open to startups registered in India
Results & next round
Applications for this round closed on 31 July 2026. The organiser has not published a selection list that we can verify yet.
Selections for this programme are announced by IIM Lucknow Enterprise Incubation Centre. Official links are listed under Sources below.
We update this page when results are published, and when the next round opens.
About this grant
The IIML EIC SportsTech Acceleration Program, run by the IIM Lucknow Enterprise Incubation Centre (IIML EIC) in collaboration with Legaxy, is a premier initiative designed to identify, nurture, and accelerate innovative startups operating at the dynamic confluence of sports and technology. This program addresses the growing need for innovation within the sports ecosystem, which encompasses everything from enhancing athlete performance and fan engagement to revolutionizing media consumption and operational efficiencies. It aims to foster a new generation of entrepreneurs who are leveraging cutting-edge technologies like AI, wearables, and data analytics to transform the sports industry.
The program's core mission is to empower early-stage and growth-stage ventures that are passionate about building the future of sports and entertainment. It provides a structured yet flexible environment for startups to refine their business models, develop scalable products, and gain market traction. By connecting participants with a robust network of industry experts, investors, and fellow innovators, the IIML EIC SportsTech Acceleration Program creates a fertile ground for high-potential ventures to thrive. This collaboration with Legaxy ensures a comprehensive approach, combining academic rigor with industry-specific insights, to deliver unparalleled value to selected startups.
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.
Grant providers
IIM Lucknow Enterprise Incubation Centre, usually written IIML EIC, is the incubator set up by IIM Lucknow at its Noida campus in Sector 62. It is a registered Section 8 not-for-profit company, and it says it is supported by NSTEDB at the Department of Science & Technology,…
Learn moreBenefits & Funding
- Fund type
- Grant
What You Get
The IIML EIC SportsTech Acceleration Program provides substantial support to accelerate the growth of participating startups. Selected ventures will receive funding opportunities from IIML EIC, alongside unparalleled access to external investment through a curated network of leading Venture Capital firms, angel investors, and strategic partners, ensuring diverse avenues for capital infusion. Beyond direct funding, the program offers intensive 1:1 mentorship from seasoned industry experts, successful founders, and domain specialists. A unique highlight is the exclusive "Super Mentorship" opportunity with renowned Indian cricketer Bhuvneshwar Kumar, providing invaluable insights and significant visibility. Startups will also benefit from comprehensive business development support, extensive networking events, and seamless integration into the vibrant IIML EIC startup ecosystem, collectively designed to foster growth and market leadership.
Timelines & Process
Selection Process
The selection process for the IIML EIC SportsTech Acceleration Program is designed to identify high-potential startups with innovative solutions and scalable business models within the SportsTech sector. Initially, applications are thoroughly reviewed by a dedicated selection committee comprising experts from IIML EIC, Legaxy, and independent industry specialists. This initial screening evaluates the completeness of the application, the clarity of the problem being solved, the innovation of the solution, market potential, and the strength of the founding team. Startups that successfully pass this stage are then invited for subsequent evaluation rounds. These typically involve pitching their ventures to a panel of mentors, investors, and program advisors. The final selection emphasizes the team's capabilities, the viability of their technology, the potential for market disruption, and their commitment to leveraging the acceleration program's resources for rapid growth.
Application Process
- 1
Apply Online
Submit your detailed startup information and required documents through the IIML EIC online application form.
You - 2
- 3
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- 5
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
What kind of funding can startups expect from this program?
The program offers funding opportunities directly from IIML EIC for eligible startups. Additionally, it provides critical access to external investment through its network of leading Venture Capital firms, angel investors, and strategic partners, facilitating avenues for significant capital infusion.
Is there a specific amount of funding guaranteed?
No, the program does not specify a fixed grant amount. Funding is provided as an "opportunity" and depends on the startup's stage, potential, and successful pitches to IIML EIC's internal funds or external investors.
Which industries are prioritized for this acceleration program?
The program is intensely focused on startups innovating across SportsTech, FitnessTech, AI in Sports, Wearables, eSports, Sports Analytics, Athlete Management, Creator Economy (within sports), and Sports Media. Any venture at the intersection of sports and technology is highly relevant.
Do I need a fully incorporated company to apply?
The program generally welcomes startups at various stages. Any specific legal-entity requirements are detailed in the application form.
What kind of mentorship is provided?
Participants receive 1:1 mentorship from a diverse pool of industry experts, experienced founders, and domain specialists. A unique aspect is the "Super Mentorship" opportunity with renowned Indian cricketer Bhuvneshwar Kumar, offering high-profile guidance.
Is physical relocation to IIM Lucknow required for the program?
The program description does not explicitly state a relocation requirement. Typically, acceleration programs of this nature may operate in a hybrid or virtual model, but physical presence for certain events or mentorship sessions might be encouraged or required. Applicants should clarify this with the program organizers if selected.
Sources
Data on this page is compiled from official program and provider references.
