Call for Proposal for Startups (incubation)

This is the main way into ACIC IIT (ISM) Foundation. The application form stays open all year with no closing date, and it is open to a company or to an individual — the centre asks for a Startup India registration number only if you already have one, and the incorporation certificate upload is optional.

What you get

• Furnished, ready to move-in space with a desk, chair and air conditioning
• Technical mentors to work on the product
• Business mentors covering marketing, branding, costing, product distribution, legal matters, intellectual property rights and company secretary and chartered accountant support
• Access to the host institute's infrastructure, laboratories, equipment, professional services and skilled interns
• Seed support for selected teams, which the centre describes as subject to availability

Who can apply

• Companies or individuals with a product or service that addresses a community problem
• No requirement to be an IIT (ISM) student, graduate or employee
• Work in one of the centre's areas: agriculture and the rural economy, climate, affordable healthcare, education and livelihoods, gender diversity and inclusion, financial inclusion, electric vehicles and renewable energy, or another area you describe yourself
• You must declare any proceedings against promoters or directors, any bank default and any pending legal action

How selection works: the centre does not publish its assessment process, committee or timeline.

How to apply: fill in the Call for Proposal for Startups form on the centre's site and upload a pitch deck covering the problem, the market and opportunity, the solution, the business or revenue model, traction and validation or a roadmap, marketing and sales strategy, and competitive analysis. Queries go to ceo_acic@iitism.ac.in.