Pre-Incubation Stage

The first stage of the centre's process is for innovators who have an idea and need space and mentoring to turn it into a proof of concept or a working module. It lasts roughly three to twelve months.

What you get

• Co-working space at the university campus in Solapur.
• Mentoring while you build the proof of concept or module.
• A letter on selection that lists the material, equipment and facilities you can use.
• No rent in this stage.

Who can apply

• Any citizen with an idea-stage innovation, including students, alumni and faculty.
• At least 70 percent of selected startups are meant to come from Solapur University's students, research scholars, faculty and recent alumni, including its affiliated colleges.

How selection works: A committee of the centre's board meets once every three months and looks at the concept, the development plan, market potential, how unique the product is, usefulness to society, and cost and returns. Shortlisted founders present to the committee, which then selects or rejects.

How to apply: Submit a proposal to the centre or use the startup registration form on its site, which asks for the startup's name, whether it is new or existing, and a mobile number and email. The centre's rules say there is no deadline. Write to ceo.uddyam@sus.ac.in to confirm the current process.