SBIF LEAP: Innovators for Bharat Program
By IIT Bhilai Innovation and Technology Foundation
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Quick Answer
An incubation program by IIT Bhilai Innovation and Technology Foundation (IBITF), supported by SBI Foundation, offering up to ₹8.5 Lakh in financial assistance, mentorship, and product development to innovative startups.
- Funding amount
- Up to ₹8.5 Lakhs
- Funding type
- Grant
- Application deadline
- 7d — 31 Aug 2026
- Location
- Open to startups registered in India
About this grant
The SBIF LEAP: Innovators for Bharat program, spearheaded by IIT Bhilai Innovation and Technology Foundation (IBITF) with crucial support from SBI Foundation, is designed to identify and nurture innovative startups contributing to India's growth. This initiative focuses on fostering entrepreneurship in critical sectors such as AgriTech, FinTech, and HealthTech, addressing the unique challenges and opportunities within the Indian context. The program aims to provide comprehensive support, enabling aspiring founders and existing startups to transform their ideas into viable products and scalable businesses. Through a structured incubation approach, SBIF LEAP seeks to empower innovators with the resources, knowledge, and network necessary to succeed in a competitive landscape. This program is a testament to the commitment of IBITF and SBI Foundation to driving innovation and economic development across Bharat.
Eligibility
See if you're eligible
Full eligibility criteria — entity type, stage, sector, founder profile and registration requirements — plus your fit for this program. Create a free account to view.
Grant providers
Benefits & Funding
- Amount
- Up to ₹8.5 Lakhs
- Fund type
- Grant
- Equity
- Equity-free
- Repayment
- Non-repayable
What You Get
Selected startups will receive comprehensive support designed to accelerate their growth and market readiness. This includes:
- Financial Assistance: Up to ₹8.5 Lakh (Eight Lakh Fifty Thousand INR) per selected startup to aid in critical development phases and operational costs.
- Incubation Support: Access to a structured incubation environment provided by IIT Bhilai Innovation and Technology Foundation (IBITF), fostering innovation and business growth.
- Expert Mentorship: Guidance from industry veterans, academic experts, and successful entrepreneurs to navigate challenges and strategic planning.
- Product Development Support: Resources and expertise to refine and enhance product offerings, ensuring market fit and technical robustness. This integrated support aims to equip startups with the necessary tools to scale their solutions and make a significant impact in their respective sectors.
- Funding source
- CSR funded
- Bootstrap friendly
- Yes
Timelines & Process
Selection Process
The selection process for SBIF LEAP: Innovators for Bharat involves a multi-stage evaluation. Applications will first be screened for eligibility and alignment with the program's focus sectors and objectives. Promising applications will then undergo a detailed review by a panel of experts from IIT Bhilai Innovation and Technology Foundation (IBITF) and its partners. Shortlisted startups may be invited for an interview or a pitch session, where they will present their innovative solutions and business plans. The final selection will be based on the innovation's potential, scalability, team capabilities, and overall impact.
Application Process
- 1
Apply Online
Submit your application through the official portal with all necessary details and documents.
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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 SBIF LEAP: Innovators for Bharat?
It's an incubation program by IIT Bhilai Innovation and Technology Foundation (IBITF), supported by SBI Foundation, offering financial assistance and comprehensive support to innovative startups focusing on AgriTech, FinTech, and HealthTech.
What kind of financial support is provided?
The program offers financial assistance of up to ₹8.5 Lakh (Eight Lakh Fifty Thousand INR) per selected startup.
What other forms of support are included?
Beyond financial aid, startups receive incubation support, expert mentorship, and product development assistance.
Which sectors are eligible for this program?
The program specifically targets innovative startups in AgriTech, FinTech, and HealthTech sectors.
Is there a specific deadline to apply?
Yes, the last date to apply is 31 August 2026, 11:29:59 PM IST.
Who is eligible to apply?
Aspiring founders, innovators, and startups with innovative ideas, particularly those aligned with the focus sectors, are invited to apply.
