Wadhwani Liftoff Program
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Quick Answer
A fully funded 12-week online program offering expert guidance, a dedicated growth advisor, and an execution plan for MSME owners with ₹5 Cr+ annual revenue, with no fees or equity taken.
- Funding amount
- Varies
- Funding type
- Grant
- Provider
- Wadhwani Foundation
- Application deadline
- Rolling
- Eligible stage
- Revenue
- Location
- Open to startups registered in India
About this grant
The Wadhwani Liftoff Program, presented by the National Entrepreneurship Network (NEN) and the Wadhwani Foundation, is a comprehensive 12-week online initiative designed for established MSME owners aiming for significant business growth. Many business owners reach a plateau where continued growth requires external expertise and a structured approach. This program addresses that critical need by providing practical support, expert guidance, and strategic connections, all without any fees or equity requirements from the participating businesses.
The program is meticulously structured to help businesses transition to their next stage of development. It focuses on empowering MSME owners to make a 'bold growth move' with enhanced structure and confidence. Participants will engage in workshops to pinpoint growth ideas and overcome bottlenecks, attend masterclasses covering crucial aspects like customer engagement, cash flow management, and the integration of AI tools, and work closely with a dedicated growth advisor. This advisor ensures the growth journey remains focused, practical, and accountable. Additionally, participants gain access to relevant domain experts tailored to their specific challenges, facilitating direct application of insights to their business operations.
Beyond the initial 12 weeks, the Liftoff Program offers continued support through an Entrepreneur Community, 24x7 AI-powered business advisory, additional expert access, and a rich Knowledge Library containing playbooks, guides, and tools. This sustained ecosystem aims to equip MSME leaders with the resources and network needed for long-term success and scaling, positioning them for market expansion, new product launches, or enhanced sales channels.
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.
Grant providers
Wadhwani Foundation is a global non-profit founded by Dr. Romesh Wadhwani. It describes itself as the global philanthropic brand for the work of two organisations, Wadhwani Charitable Foundation and Wadhwani Operating Foundation, with a mission to speed up economic development…
Learn moreBenefits & Funding
- Fund type
- Grant
- Equity
- Equity-free
- Repayment
- Non-repayable
What You Get
The Wadhwani Liftoff Program provides a fully funded, value-rich support system designed to propel established MSMEs towards their next phase of growth. While it does not offer direct cash grants, the program delivers significant benefits through its comprehensive structure:
- Expert Guidance and Mentorship: Participants receive personalized insights and strategic advice from domain experts and a dedicated growth advisor, ensuring their growth journey is focused and accountable. This advisory support is tailored to address specific business bottlenecks and opportunities.
- Structured Growth Plan: The core benefit is a clear, executable 90-day growth plan, developed through workshops and masterclasses, empowering businesses to make bold, confident moves in areas like market expansion or product launch.
- Learning and Development: Masterclasses cover critical business functions including customer relations, cash flow management, and leveraging AI tools, providing practical knowledge directly applicable to business operations.
- Networking and Community: Access to a vibrant Entrepreneur Community and additional expert connections fosters invaluable peer learning and opportunities for collaboration.
- Tools and Resources: Post-program, businesses continue to benefit from a 24x7 AI-powered Business Advisor and a comprehensive Knowledge Library packed with playbooks, guides, and tools to support sustained growth and operational excellence.
- Duration
- 3 months
- Cohort size
- 50 startups
- Bootstrap friendly
- Yes
Timelines & Process
Applications
Rolling basis
Selection Process
The Wadhwani Liftoff Program employs a rigorous selection process to ensure that only businesses with high growth potential and commitment are chosen. Applications are reviewed on a rolling basis. Initial screening involves an assessment of basic business information, including revenue, team size, operational history, and the clarity of the applicant's growth focus. Shortlisted candidates may then be invited for an interview with the program team. The final selection is made by an expert panel that evaluates ventures based on their stage of growth, readiness to execute, the leadership team's commitment, and the strategic importance of the growth opportunity they aim to pursue.
Application Process
- 1
Apply Online
Fill out the detailed application form and share your business growth ambition.
You - 2
- 3
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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
Is this a selection-based program?
Yes, participation in the Wadhwani Liftoff Program is by selection only. Businesses are rigorously evaluated based on their current stage of growth, their readiness to execute new strategies, the commitment of their leadership, and the clarity of the specific growth opportunity they wish to pursue through the program.
What information will I need to share during the application process?
Applicants will need to provide basic business information, which includes their annual revenue range, current team size, the stage of their business, their primary growth priorities, the key challenges they are facing, and the specific growth opportunity they aim to work on during their participation in the program. This information helps the selection panel assess fit.
Why are only 50 businesses being selected?
The program is intentionally selective to ensure high-quality engagement and personalized support for each participant. This focused approach allows for deeper interaction with advisors and experts. Applications are reviewed on a rolling basis, so if a particular cohort reaches its capacity, eligible businesses may be considered for a subsequent batch, allowing for continuous intake.
Is there any fee, equity, or hidden cost involved in the program?
No, there are absolutely no fees, no equity requirements, and no hidden charges associated with participating in the Wadhwani Liftoff Program. It is a fully funded initiative designed to support business growth without financial burden on the entrepreneurs.
Can my co-founder or leadership team participate in the program?
Yes, while the primary business owner is expected to maintain active involvement throughout the program, relevant members of the leadership team are also welcome and encouraged to participate. This ensures that the strategic insights and growth plans developed during the program can be effectively integrated across the organization.
What will I achieve or leave with after completing the program?
Upon successful completion of the Wadhwani Liftoff Program, you will depart with a clear, executable 90-day growth plan, along with actionable next steps to implement it. You will also gain valuable access to the extensive Wadhwani Entrepreneur Network and achieve greater clarity and confidence in how to strategically execute your business's growth strategy for sustained success.
What if my business does not meet the eligibility criteria?
Businesses that do not meet the specific eligibility criteria, particularly those with annual revenue below ₹5 Crore, are encouraged to explore the Wadhwani Liftoff AI-powered growth platform. This alternative resource provides valuable tools and support for businesses at earlier stages or with different revenue profiles.
Sources
Data on this page is compiled from official program and provider references.
