Genesis by IKP – Cohort 1
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Quick Answer
A 12-month venture-building program by IKP Knowledge Park offering up to INR 30 Lakhs in equity investment and comprehensive support for deep science startups at TRL 2-3.
- Funding amount
- Up to ₹30 Lakhs
- Funding type
- Equity
- Provider
- IKP Knowledge Park
- 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 IKP Knowledge Park. 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
Genesis by IKP is a pioneering 12-month funding and venture-building program specifically designed for founders who are translating breakthrough deep science innovations from laboratory research into viable commercial ventures. Hosted by IKP Knowledge Park, this program targets startups operating at Technology Readiness Level (TRL) 2–3, which represents the critical stage of concept validation and experimental proof-of-concept.
The core mission of Genesis by IKP is to bridge the gap between scientific discovery and market entry. It provides a structured environment where early-stage deep science startups receive not only essential capital but also rigorous hands-on engagement from IKP's in-house experts. The program offers comprehensive support covering critical aspects of venture development, including IP strategy, regulatory guidance, and investor readiness. This holistic approach is geared towards transforming innovative scientific research into robust, investable, and commercially scalable businesses. Through tailored mentorship and access to IKP's extensive ecosystem, selected startups are equipped to accelerate their journey from the lab to a successful market launch, fostering deep science innovation in India.
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
IKP Knowledge Park is a science park and incubator on a 200-acre campus in Genome Valley, Hyderabad, founded in 1999. It is run by IKP Knowledge Park, the operating arm of the non-profit IKP Trust, alongside a related early-stage venture fund manager, IKP Ventures. It also has a…
Learn moreBenefits & Funding
- Amount
- Up to ₹30 Lakhs
What You Get
Selected startups will receive an equity investment of up to INR 30 Lakhs, providing crucial capital to advance their deep science innovations. This funding is complemented by a comprehensive 12-month venture-building program offering expert mentorship from seasoned entrepreneurs and domain specialists. Beyond capital, the program provides in-depth support for IP strategy, prior art search, patent filing guidance, and regulatory pathway planning, essential for deep tech ventures. Startups also benefit from investor and manufacturing readiness support, grant strategy assistance, and pitch deck refinement, ensuring they are well-prepared for subsequent funding rounds and market entry. Access to IKP's extensive ecosystem, technical infrastructure, and external fundraising support during the program further enhances their growth trajectory.
- Disbursement
- Milestone Based
- Duration
- 12 months
Timelines & Process
Selection Process
The selection process for Genesis by IKP is multi-staged and rigorous, designed to identify deep science innovations with high potential. Initially, all online applications are subjected to an internal review by IKP's expert panel. This initial screening focuses on evaluating the scientific novelty of the proposed solution, its fit within TRL 2-3 criteria, the strength of its intellectual property potential, and the overall quality and experience of the founding team. Startups that successfully pass this stage are then invited for a more in-depth scientific evaluation, which includes a detailed assessment of their IP and proposed regulatory pathways. This phase often involves technical due diligence. Concurrently, founder interviews are conducted to understand their vision, commitment, and ability to execute. A final selection committee makes the ultimate decision, typically choosing 4-5 promising startups for the cohort.
Application Process
- 1
Online Application
Submit your application and a 6-7 slide pitch deck via the IKP Athena Portal.
You - 2
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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 the Genesis by IKP program?
The Genesis program aims to support early-stage deep science startups at TRL 2-3 in translating their laboratory research into commercially viable and investable ventures. It focuses on accelerating their journey from science to market by providing funding, mentorship, and comprehensive venture-building support.
What kind of funding does Genesis by IKP provide?
The program provides equity investment of up to INR 30 Lakhs. This is an investment in the startup's equity, not a grant or a loan, and is typically disbursed in tranches tied to achieving specific milestones.
Who is eligible to apply for Genesis by IKP?
Eligible applicants must be Private Limited Companies registered in India, with at least 51% Indian shareholding. Startups should be at TRL 2 or TRL 3, possess lab-dependent intellectual property, and be working in specific deep science sectors like Biotherapeutics, HealthTech, AI, and DeepTech. LLPs and OPCs are not eligible.
What is Technology Readiness Level (TRL) 2-3?
TRL 2 refers to 'Technology concept and/or application formulated,' while TRL 3 means 'Experimental proof of concept.' The program specifically targets innovations at these early stages, helping them mature towards commercialization.
What support will startups receive besides funding?
Beyond equity investment, startups will engage in a 12-month venture-building program that includes expert mentorship, IP strategy development, regulatory pathway planning, investment readiness, manufacturing readiness, and access to IKP's technical infrastructure and network. This holistic support aims to prepare startups for successful market entry and future fundraising.
What is the application and selection process?
The process involves an initial online application submission via the IKP Athena Portal, followed by an internal review focusing on scientific novelty, TRL fit, and team quality. Shortlisted startups undergo scientific, IP, and regulatory assessments, along with founder interviews. A final selection is made, leading to agreement signing and program commencement.
Sources
Data on this page is compiled from official program and provider references.
