Explore

Startup equity & accelerator funding in India

Seed funding, accelerators and equity investment programs for high-growth Indian startups. Compare cheque sizes, equity terms and eligibility.

Equity
₹1.3CrUp to

100X.VC Investment Program

by 100X.VC

100X.VC offers seed investment of ₹1.25 crore via iSAFE notes to early-stage Indian startups, along with mentorship and a 6-week masterclass. Rolling applications.

Rolling
View
Equity
Varies

NIDHI-SSS at RIIDL — Seed Funding for Incubated Tech Startups

by RIIDL, Somaiya Vidyavihar University

NIDHI-Seed Support System at RIIDL gives early-stage, innovation-led Indian startups flexible seed capital — as a grant, convertible or soft loan, equity, or a blend — along with incubation, mentorship and market support. Applications stay open round the year.

Rolling
View
Equity
₹4.2Cr – ₹41.5CrRange

Surge by Peak XV

by Peak XV Partners

Surge offers up to $5M in seed capital, full-stack support, and access to a global network for audacious early-stage founders.

Rolling
View

By state

State-level programs, mapped to where you're registered.

Frequently asked questions

Everything founders ask before applying.

How is equity funding different from a grant?
Equity funding is money in exchange for ownership — investors or accelerators take a stake in your company. A grant is non-dilutive: you keep 100% of your equity. Equity brings larger cheques and hands-on support; grants bring capital with no strings on your cap table.
What do accelerators and incubators offer besides money?
Most pair a seed cheque with mentorship, a founder network, office space, investor introductions and a demo day. Several run a fixed deal — a set amount for a set equity percentage — alongside the programme.
How much equity do seed investors or accelerators take?
It varies by programme and cheque size, typically a single-digit to low-double-digit percentage at the earliest stages. Each program lists its indicative terms; always read the fine print before signing.
What stage does my startup need to be at to raise equity?
Most seed investors and accelerators look for a working product or early traction, though some pre-seed programmes back a strong team and idea. Filter by stage to match programmes to where you are today.
Do I need DPIIT recognition to raise equity?
Usually not — private investors and accelerators rarely require it. DPIIT recognition still helps with tax benefits and credibility, and is worth obtaining since it's free.
Is startupfunds.in free to use?
Browsing and searching is free. A free account unlocks full eligibility details, application guidance, official links and deadline reminders.