MCL Seed Grant 2026
By Foundation for Technology & Business Incubation (FTBI), NIT Rourkela
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Quick Answer
A seed grant program by Mahanadi Coalfields Limited (MCL) and FTBI NIT Rourkela offering up to ₹3 lakh to innovative technology startups incubated at FTBI.
- Funding amount
- Up to ₹3L
- Funding type
- Grant
- Application deadline
- Closed
- Location
- Open to startups registered in India
Results & next round
Applications for this round closed on 20 August 2026. The organiser has not published a selection list that we can verify yet.
Selections for this programme are announced by Foundation for Technology & Business Incubation (FTBI), NIT Rourkela. 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 MCL Seed Grant 2026, an initiative under the CSR program of Mahanadi Coalfields Limited (MCL), is administered by the Foundation for Technology & Business Incubation (FTBI) at NIT Rourkela. This grant aims to foster innovation and support early-stage startups that are developing groundbreaking technologies, especially those with a high gestation period and the potential for significant social benefits. The program provides crucial financial support to help these ventures advance their product development, market entry, and overall growth within a supportive incubation ecosystem.
This funding is designed to provide seed capital to startups requiring early-stage financial backing to validate their ideas, build prototypes, and scale their solutions. By focusing on innovative technologies and social impact, the MCL Seed Grant seeks to empower entrepreneurs to address pressing societal challenges and contribute to economic development. The collaboration between MCL and FTBI underscores a commitment to nurturing the startup ecosystem and driving technological advancements 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.
Grant providers
Provider
Foundation for Technology & Business Incubation (FTBI), NIT RourkelaRourkela · Odisha · India
Foundation for Technology & Business Incubation (FTBI) is the incubator of National Institute of Technology Rourkela, in Rourkela, Odisha. It is a separate legal body from the institute — a Section 8 not-for-profit company — housed under the institute's Centre for Technology…
Learn moreBenefits & Funding
- Amount
- Up to ₹3L
- Fund type
- Grant
- Equity
- Equity-free
- Repayment
- Non-repayable
What You Get
Selected startups will receive a seed grant of up to ₹3,00,000 to fuel their innovative technology development. This equity-free funding is administered to support critical early-stage expenses, prototype development, and initial market validation. In addition to financial aid, beneficiaries will continue to leverage the comprehensive incubation support from FTBI NIT Rourkela, including access to infrastructure, mentorship, and a vibrant entrepreneurial ecosystem. This holistic support aims to accelerate the startup's growth trajectory and enhance its potential for generating social benefits.
- Funding source
- CSR funded
- Bootstrap friendly
- Yes
Timelines & Process
Selection Process
Applications for the MCL Seed Grant will be rigorously evaluated by a selection committee comprising experts from MCL and FTBI NIT Rourkela. The screening process will primarily focus on the innovativeness of the technology, its potential for social impact, the viability of the business plan, and the financial disclosures, including audited annual statements and previous funding details. Startups providing adequate justification for the requested seed capital and demonstrating a strong growth trajectory will be given preference. Shortlisted applicants may be required to present their business plan or participate in an interview round to further assess their vision and execution capabilities.
Application Process
- 1
Apply Online
Submit your application form, detailed business plan, audited financials, and all prerequisite documents via the Google Forms link.
You - 2
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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
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 is the maximum grant amount available?
The MCL Seed Grant provides up to ₹3,00,000 per eligible startup.
Who is eligible to apply for this grant?
Only companies currently incubated at FTBI NIT Rourkela with a valid incubation agreement, and incorporated under the Companies Act 2013, are eligible.
What kind of technologies or focus areas are preferred?
The program prefers startups working on innovative technologies, especially those with a high gestation period and a clear potential for social benefits.
What documents are required for the application?
Applicants must submit all prerequisite documents, audited annual statements, and a detailed business plan including previous funding details and 3-year cash flow projections. A justification for the requested seed capital is also required.
Is prior funding allowed?
Yes, prior funding is allowed but must be fully disclosed in your business plan.
Is the grant repayable?
No, the MCL Seed Grant is an equity-free, non-repayable grant.
Sources
Data on this page is compiled from official program and provider references.
