INNOSTARS 3.0 Acceleration Program
By i-RISE — Technology Business Incubator, IISER Mohali
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Quick Answer
A 2-month intensive acceleration program by i-RISE TBI IISER Mohali and AngelBlue, empowering early-stage deep tech startups with funding access, mentorship, and strategic consulting.
- Funding amount
- Varies
- Funding type
- Equity
- Application deadline
- 4d — 25 Oct 2026
- Location
- Open to startups registered in India
About this funding program
INNOSTARS 3.0 is a premier startup acceleration initiative spearheaded by i-RISE TBI IISER Mohali (Technology Business Incubator, IISER Mohali) in collaboration with AngelBlue. This intensive 2-month program is meticulously designed to empower and propel startups that are at the forefront of innovation. The core mission of INNOSTARS is to nurture promising ventures by providing comprehensive support, including crucial access to funding, strategic consulting, invaluable expert mentorship, and diverse networking opportunities.
The program explicitly targets early-stage deep tech startups, emphasizing solutions that leverage advanced technologies across various critical sectors. This includes AI-driven solutions, groundbreaking biotech innovations, sustainable energy initiatives, green mobility solutions, advanced logistics platforms, and applications utilizing blockchain technology. By focusing on these high-impact areas, INNOSTARS 3.0 aims to cultivate a new generation of deep tech companies that can drive significant economic growth and societal progress. The curriculum and support structure are tailored to help these startups navigate the complexities of product development, market entry, and investor relations, ensuring they are well-equipped to scale and succeed in competitive landscapes.
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
i-RISE is the technology business incubator at IISER Mohali, in Knowledge City, Sector 81, SAS Nagar, Punjab. The name stands for Raising Innovative & Sustainable Enterprises, and the incubator was set up in 2018 as TBI IISER Mohali before it was renamed. It says it works with…
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What You Get
The INNOSTARS 3.0 program provides selected startups with critical access to funding, including equity investments, debt financing, and grants through its extensive investor network. While specific amounts are not stated, this access is designed to help early-stage deep tech ventures secure the capital necessary for growth. Beyond direct funding access, participants receive expert mentorship from seasoned industry professionals who offer guidance on various challenges. Strategic consulting is a key component, covering vital areas such as business planning, go-to-market strategy development, and financial modeling. Startups also benefit from extensive networking opportunities with peers, industry leaders, and potential partners. The program culminates in a Demo Day, offering a high-visibility platform to pitch before a curated audience of investors and industry experts, further enhancing exposure to the investor fraternity.
- Duration
- 2 months
- Cohort size
- 15 startups
Timelines & Process
Selection Process
The selection process for INNOSTARS 3.0 is designed to identify high-potential deep tech startups. Applications undergo a rigorous review based on several key criteria. The selection committee evaluates each startup's innovation potential, focusing on novel, technology-focused deep tech ideas. Market viability is assessed to determine the potential for real-world impact and commercial success. Team capability and growth potential are also critical factors, ensuring that the selected startups have strong leadership and a clear path for expansion. Furthermore, applicants must demonstrate that they are already revenue-generating and at the MVP stage or beyond, showcasing investment readiness. This multi-faceted evaluation ensures that only the most promising and prepared startups are admitted into the acceleration program.
Application Process
- 1
Apply Online
Submit your startup's application through the official website by October 25, 2026.
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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
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
Submit on the official portal
Use the official application link and verify all details before final submission.
- 4
Follow up
Reach out 5–7 days after submitting to confirm receipt and ask about the review timeline.
Frequently Asked Questions
What kind of startups is INNOSTARS 3.0 looking for?
INNOSTARS 3.0 focuses on early-stage deep tech startups developing innovative solutions in sectors like Healthcare/MedTech, Climate Tech, AgriTech & Food Tech, Logistics and Warehousing, Biotechnology, Clean Technologies, and Electronics and Communication (Robotics, Semiconductors, Networks).
What stage should my startup be in to apply?
Applicants should be at the MVP (Minimum Viable Product) stage or beyond. The program is looking for startups that are already generating revenue and are investment-ready.
What kind of funding support is available?
The program provides access to various funding avenues including equity investments, debt financing, and grants through its network of investors and partners. Specific funding amounts are not predetermined but are facilitated through connections.
What is the duration of the acceleration program?
INNOSTARS 3.0 is a 2-month intensive acceleration program, designed to provide concentrated support and resources to selected startups.
What are the key benefits of participating?
Participants gain access to funding, expert mentorship from industry leaders, strategic consulting on business planning and GTM strategy, extensive networking opportunities, and a Demo Day to showcase their innovations to investors and industry professionals.
What is the application deadline for INNOSTARS 3.0?
The application deadline for INNOSTARS 3.0 is October 25, 2026. Interested startups should submit their applications before this date.
Sources
Data on this page is compiled from official program and provider references.
