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About this grant
The Women’s Economic Empowerment (WEE) program is an AI and innovation initiative spearheaded by IIMA Ventures, with critical support from the Gates Foundation.
IIMA Ventures, the startup incubator and accelerator at the Indian Institute of Management Ahmedabad, is deeply committed to fostering entrepreneurship and innovation that addresses pressing societal challenges. Leveraging its extensive institutional expertise and network, IIMA Ventures actively backs startups poised for significant impact. The Gates Foundation's involvement underscores a shared commitment to global development and improving lives, particularly in areas like gender equality and economic empowerment in developing nations. This program specifically targets technology-enabled solutions that can significantly enhance the growth, predictability, and resilience of incomes for women across India, aiming to bridge economic disparities through innovation. Financial support for supported startups begins at ₹4,500,000 (equivalent to USD 50,000). These funds are disbursed in tranches, contingent upon the achievement of specific milestones mutually agreed upon between IIMA Ventures and the startup. A comprehensive Service Agreement outlines the product focus, market opportunity, engagement objectives, planned activities, and budgets, ensuring clear expectations and accountability for both parties. Beyond direct funding, the program offers extensive non-monetary support designed to accelerate growth. This includes crucial market access facilitated through strategic partnerships with women-focused last-mile organizations and expansive delivery systems, enabling startups to reach their target beneficiaries effectively. Startups also gain invaluable access to a diverse network of experts, providing critical insights on customer needs, emerging technology trends, relevant policy frameworks, and dynamic industry landscapes. The program ensures prominent showcase and visibility opportunities at partner and regional events, boosting recognition and potential investment. Furthermore, comprehensive fundraising support is provided, spanning from initial pitching guidance to navigating the complexities of deal closure. Additionally, selected ventures receive substantial cloud credits up to USD 250,000 from major providers like Google Cloud, Microsoft Web Services, and Amazon Azure, complemented by essential payment gateway support from Razorpay and PhonePe, significantly reducing operational costs and enhancing scalability.
Eligibility
Eligibility for the WEE program is centered on a clear potential for social and economic impact.
The program supports startups developing scalable, high-impact AI and technology-enabled solutions that are specifically designed to address the unique challenges faced by women in India.
Solutions must demonstrate a tangible potential to positively impact the growth, predictability, and resilience of incomes for women across the nation, fostering self-reliance and economic stability.
Benefits & Funding
Offers from ₹45 Lakhs per startup.
Non-repayable grant.
Disbursed as equity.
Disbursement mode: Tranched.
Supported startups receive financial assistance starting at ₹4,500,000 (USD 50,000), disbursed in tranches upon achieving specific milestones outlined in a comprehensive Service Agreement.
Beyond direct funding, the program offers extensive non-monetary support designed to accelerate growth.
Timelines & Process
Rolling applications — accepted year-round.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the Women’s Economic Empowerment (WEE) program?
The WEE program is an AI and innovation initiative by IIMA Ventures, supported by the Gates Foundation, focused on technology-enabled solutions to enhance the incomes of low-income women across India.
What types of solutions are eligible for this program?
The program seeks scalable, high-impact AI and technology-enabled solutions that positively impact the growth, predictability, and resilience of incomes for low-income women in India, especially in sectors like agriculture, micro-entrepreneurship, and the informal economy.
Is company registration required to apply?
While applicants do not need to be a registered firm to apply initially, selection and support are contingent upon the entity being formally registered in India.
What kind of support, besides financial, does the program offer?
Beyond funding, the program provides extensive non-monetary support including market access through strategic partnerships, access to a network of experts for insights, showcase and visibility opportunities, comprehensive fundraising support, and substantial cloud credits up to USD 250,000 from major providers.
How does the application and evaluation process work?
Applications are evaluated on a rolling basis, involving a review for alignment with objectives, assessment of innovation, impact potential, and team strength. Applicants can expect 2-3 rounds of pitching and feedback sessions, with status updates typically within one month.
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