AIC Mahindra Call for Incubation (2026 Cohort)
Incubation for early-stage startups with PoC/prototype, focusing on DeepTech, robotics, EV, and life sciences.
- Funding amount
- Varies by program
- Funding type
- Grant
- Provider
- AIC Mahindra e-Hub Foundation (Incubator)
- Application deadline
- Closed (30 Apr 2026)
- Eligible stage
- Any stage
- Location
- Open to startups registered in India
Overview
The AIC Mahindra Call for Incubation (2026 Cohort) is a structured incubation program run by AIC Mahindra e-Hub Foundation, an Atal Incubation Centre established by Mahindra University in Hyderabad. It operates under the Atal Innovation Mission (AIM), NITI Aayog, a Government of India initiative to promote innovation and entrepreneurship.
The program is designed to support early-stage startups through critical phases of ideation, validation, and venture development. While specific equity terms and direct seed funding amounts are not publicly stated, AIC Mahindra, as an AIM-supported incubator, facilitates access to the Startup India Seed Fund Scheme (SISFS). For empanelled startups, SISFS can provide up to ₹20 Lakhs as a grant and up to ₹50 Lakhs as convertible debt. The core benefits focus on comprehensive non-monetary support, leveraging Mahindra University's advanced resources and network.
Participants get dedicated on-campus workspace at Mahindra University in Hyderabad and access to specialized labs including maker labs, robotics labs, EV labs, and life sciences labs. They also receive mentorship from experienced founders, operators, and investors, plus connections to the Mahindra Group ecosystem and a curated network of investors.
Highlights
- Facilitated access to Startup India Seed Fund Scheme (up to ₹20 Lakhs grant + ₹50 Lakhs convertible debt)
- Dedicated on-campus workspace at Mahindra University, Hyderabad
- Access to specialized labs: maker, robotics, EV, and life sciences
- Mentorship from experienced founders, operators, and investors
- Connections to Mahindra Group ecosystem for pilots and partnerships
- Open to solo founders and student founders
Who can apply
Founders must be solving a real problem with a clear market need, and must have a working Proof of Concept (PoC), functional prototype, or early users. Startups need to be registered as a Private Limited company in India, or be ready to register upon selection. The program welcomes solo founders and student founders. External early-stage startups not affiliated with Mahindra University can also apply. Selected startups must be willing to be onboarded at the Mahindra University campus in Hyderabad, Telangana, implying physical presence is required.
AIC Mahindra Call for Incubation (2026 Cohort) is open to startups at any stage. It is open to startups registered anywhere in India.
- Eligible stage
- Any stage
- Location
- Open to startups registered in India
Deadline & timing
The most recent application window for AIC Mahindra Call for Incubation (2026 Cohort) closed on 30 Apr 2026. Many programmes run repeat cohorts, so it is worth checking the official site for the next round.
What the funding covers
AIC Mahindra facilitates access to the Startup India Seed Fund Scheme (SISFS), which can provide up to ₹20 Lakhs as a grant and up to ₹50 Lakhs as convertible debt for empanelled startups. The program itself offers comprehensive non-monetary support including dedicated on-campus workspace, access to specialized labs (maker, robotics, EV, life sciences), mentorship from experienced founders and investors, and connections to the Mahindra Group ecosystem for pilot projects and partnerships.
About the provider
AIC Mahindra Call for Incubation (2026 Cohort) is offered by AIC Mahindra e-Hub Foundation, a startup incubator. It is delivered directly by AIC Mahindra e-Hub Foundation as a grant. You can verify current details and timelines on the provider's official website before applying.
How to apply
Applications are submitted on the official portal. Confirm the current deadline and document checklist there before you start.
Selection process
Applicants must complete an official online application form providing details about their startup, solution, team, and progress. The AIC Mahindra team conducts an initial screening to assess the problem clarity, founding team expertise, prototype maturity, innovation level, and market potential. Shortlisted applicants are then invited for a pitch presentation or in-depth interview with the selection panel, where founders articulate their vision, strategic thinking, and team synergy. Final selection is based on comprehensive evaluation of the problem definition, technical and market feasibility of the solution, founder commitment and passion, and alignment with the specialized on-campus lab facilities. Selected startups are formally onboarded at the Mahindra University campus.
Documents you’ll need
Before you apply to AIC Mahindra Call for Incubation (2026 Cohort), keep the following documents ready:
- A pitch deck or short business plan describing the problem, product and traction
- Company registration documents and PAN
- Founder identification (PAN / Aadhaar) and brief profiles
- Recent financial statements or projections
- Product details — a demo, prototype or working link if available
Exact requirements are confirmed on the official application portal — treat this as a preparation checklist.
Frequently asked questions
How much funding is offered by the program?
The program itself does not provide direct funding, but facilitates access to the Startup India Seed Fund Scheme (SISFS), which can offer up to ₹20 Lakhs as a grant and up to ₹50 Lakhs as convertible debt for empanelled startups.
What is the application deadline for the 2026 Cohort?
The deadline for applications is April 30, 2026.
Who is eligible to apply?
Early-stage startups with a working Proof of Concept (PoC), prototype, or early users are eligible. They must be registered or willing to register as a Private Limited company in India. Solo founders and student founders are welcome, and external startups not affiliated with Mahindra University can also apply.
What sectors does the program focus on?
The program primarily focuses on DeepTech, including robotics, Electric Vehicles (EV), mobility, and life sciences/biotech. It is open to other deep technology sectors that align with the on-campus lab capabilities.
Is DPIIT or MSME registration required?
The eligibility criteria do not explicitly require DPIIT or MSME registration, but startups should be registered as a Private Limited company in India. SISFS access may have its own requirements.
Does the program take equity?
The program itself does not specify equity terms; it primarily offers non-monetary support. However, facilitated funding through SISFS may involve convertible debt, not equity.
What documents are needed to apply?
Applicants must provide comprehensive details about their startup, solution, team, and progress through the official online application form. Specific documents are not listed but likely include business plan, pitch deck, and team resumes.
How and where do I apply?
Applications are submitted via an official online form. The apply URL is a Google Form link provided by AIC Mahindra.
Is physical presence required?
Yes, selected startups must be willing to be onboarded at the Mahindra University campus in Hyderabad, Telangana, implying physical presence or relocation.
Can student founders apply?
Yes, student founders are explicitly welcome to apply.
Who offers AIC Mahindra Call for Incubation (2026 Cohort)?
AIC Mahindra Call for Incubation (2026 Cohort) is offered by AIC Mahindra e-Hub Foundation, a startup incubator. It is provided as non-dilutive funding.
How do I apply for AIC Mahindra Call for Incubation (2026 Cohort)?
Apply directly through the official application link on this page. Review the eligibility criteria and prepare your startup documents before you begin.
Alternatives to AIC Mahindra Call for Incubation (2026 Cohort)
Not sure AIC Mahindra Call for Incubation (2026 Cohort) is the right fit, or already applied? These are other grants open to Indian startups that founders shortlist alongside it.
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