Soma Fellows
By Soma
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Quick Answer
Funding up to ₹180,000,000 for startups, with extensive mentorship and networking.
About this funding program
Soma Fellows is a program initiated by Soma, an investment firm with a longstanding history of building and investing in startups. Soma, alongside the Ranadive family, has dedicated decades to fostering brilliant individuals and companies, aiming to be a primary resource for founders throughout their entrepreneurial journey. The firm is well-known for its global network and its impressive track record, having played a key role in seeding over 30 unicorn companies across various technology sectors. This extensive experience means Soma Fellows offers not just capital, but also deep strategic guidance derived from years of direct involvement in startup growth and investment.
The program provides substantial, uncapped funding for startups. Initial investments can reach up to ₹18.6 crore, offering significant capital for early-stage development and market entry. Companies that demonstrate strong traction and growth potential can qualify for additional follow-on funding, which has the potential to exceed ₹93 crore. This structured funding approach supports startups from initial seed through significant scaling phases. This financial backing is enhanced by a comprehensive suite of support services specifically designed to accelerate the growth and market penetration of selected startups, helping them navigate complex challenges and achieve their milestones faster.
Participants in Soma Fellows gain access to a range of practical support mechanisms. This includes a 24/7 concierge service, offering continuous assistance for various operational needs, and access to premium office spaces located in major innovation hubs, specifically San Francisco or New York. The program actively facilitates high-level customer introductions, connecting founders directly with executives from Fortune 500 companies, thereby creating valuable opportunities for business development and market expansion. Furthermore, Soma Fellows offers extensive networking opportunities, including exclusive weekly dinners and events that allow interaction with over 30 unicorn founders from Soma's broad portfolio. These sessions provide direct access to experienced entrepreneurs and potential collaborators. Founders also benefit from personalized one-on-one sessions with Aneel Ranadive and the Soma team, receiving tailored advice and strategic insights. Additional benefits include credits for advanced AI platforms like OpenAI/Anthropic and organized team retreats, fostering both innovation and team cohesion.
Eligibility
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Full eligibility criteria — entity type, stage, sector, founder profile and registration requirements — plus your fit for this program. Sign up to view.
Funding providers
Soma is a deep tech accelerator and SaaS platform based in India, operating under the broader India Accelerator ecosystem. It was designed to address a specific gap in the Indian startup landscape: the lack of structured support for startups rooted in scientific research and…
Learn moreBenefits & Funding
- Amount
- ₹90 Lakhs – ₹18 Cr
What You Get
Substantial uncapped funding, initially up to ₹180,000,000 with potential follow-on exceeding ₹900,000,000. Benefits include extensive mentorship, networking with 30+ unicorn founders, high-level customer introductions to Fortune 500s, premium office space in San Francisco/New York, 24/7 concierge, AI platform credits (OpenAI/Anthropic), and team retreats. Personalized strategic guidance is also provided.
Timelines & Process
Applications
Rolling basis
Selection Process
Applications are reviewed by the Soma team for innovation quality, market potential, and founder strength. Shortlisted founders engage in direct conversations with Aneel Ranadive and the Soma team before final investment decisions are made. Selected fellows receive up to ₹18.6 crore in initial investment with potential for follow-on funding exceeding ₹93 crore.
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
Can Indian founders apply to Soma Fellows?
Yes. Soma Fellows is an international program open to founders globally, including Indian startups. Participants receive office space in San Francisco or New York as part of the program.
How much funding does Soma Fellows provide?
Initial investment can reach up to ₹18.6 crore. Companies demonstrating strong traction may qualify for follow-on funding exceeding ₹93 crore.
Does Soma Fellows take equity in exchange for investment?
Yes. Soma Fellows is an equity-based investment program — Soma takes an equity stake in exchange for the capital and support provided. It is not a grant or equity-free program.
What stage of startup is the program designed for?
The program is designed for early-stage founders, typically at the idea, pre-seed, or seed stage, who are building high-potential technology ventures.
What non-monetary benefits does the program offer?
Benefits include 24/7 concierge support, premium office space in San Francisco or New York, customer introductions to Fortune 500 executives, weekly networking dinners with 30+ unicorn founders, one-on-one sessions with Aneel Ranadive and the Soma team, OpenAI and Anthropic credits, and team retreats.
How does Soma Fellows differ from a typical VC investment?
Beyond capital, Soma Fellows provides hands-on ecosystem integration, a curated founder community from its 30+ unicorn portfolio, and direct access to enterprise customers, making it a comprehensive platform rather than just a funding relationship.
Sources
Data on this page is compiled from official program and provider references.
