AIC Mahindra Call for Incubation (2026 Cohort)

The AIC Mahindra Call for Incubation (2026 Cohort) is a dedicated program by the AIC Mahindra e-Hub Foundation, designed to foster the growth of early-stage startups. It specifically targets ventures that have developed a Proof of Concept (PoC) or a functional prototype, or already have initial users. The program is committed to supporting innovators in critical DeepTech sectors, including robotics, electric vehicles (EV), mobility solutions, and life sciences/biotechnology. By providing a robust incubation ecosystem, AIC Mahindra aims to guide founders through the crucial stages of ideation, validation, and venture development. This initiative leverages the academic excellence, research capabilities, and specialized laboratory facilities available at Mahindra University to empower the next generation of Indian startups.

• Incubation for early-stage DeepTech startups with PoC or prototype.
• Focus on robotics, EV, mobility, and life sciences/biotech sectors.
• Facilitated access to Startup India Seed Fund Scheme (SISFS) for up to ₹20 Lakhs grant and ₹50 Lakhs convertible debt.
• Comprehensive non-monetary support, including access to Mahindra University's labs and research.
• Open to solo founders, student founders, and external startups.
• Requires physical onboarding at Mahindra University campus in Hyderabad, Telangana.

To be eligible for the AIC Mahindra Call for Incubation, founders must be actively developing solutions for genuine market problems, demonstrating a clear understanding of the needs they aim to address.

Applicants are required to have advanced beyond the initial ideation phase, possessing either a working Proof of Concept (PoC), a functional prototype, or a base of early users.

All applying entities must be registered as a Private Limited company in India, or be prepared to establish one upon selection for the program. The program encourages applications from solo founders and student founders, promoting a diverse and inclusive environment. External early-stage startups, not directly affiliated with Mahindra University, are also welcomed to apply. A strong emphasis is placed on founder commitment, resilience, and consistent engagement, which are considered vital for navigating the challenges inherent in startup development. Finally, all selected startups must agree to be physically onboarded at the Mahindra University campus in Hyderabad, Telangana, for the duration of the program.

AIC Mahindra Call for Incubation (2026 Cohort) is open to startups at any stage. It is open to startups registered anywhere in India.

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.

The AIC Mahindra Incubation program offers significant non-monetary support, designed to accelerate startup growth. This includes comprehensive access to Mahindra University's academic resources, cutting-edge research facilities, and specialized on-campus laboratories, providing a rich environment for technical and product development.

Beyond direct incubation support, the program facilitates access to the Startup India Seed Fund Scheme (SISFS) for empanelled startups. Through SISFS, eligible ventures may secure up to ₹20 Lakhs as a grant and up to ₹50 Lakhs as convertible debt. This financial pathway complements the hands-on guidance and ecosystem support provided by AIC Mahindra, aiding founders in their journey from ideation through validation to successful venture development.

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.

The selection process for the AIC Mahindra Call for Incubation begins with applicants completing a detailed official online application form. This form requires comprehensive information about the startup, its proposed solution, the founding team, and current progress.

Following the application submission, the AIC Mahindra team conducts an initial screening. This stage rigorously evaluates the clarity of the problem the startup aims to solve, the expertise and composition of the founding team, and the maturity level of the prototype or Proof of Concept (PoC). The innovation potential and market viability of the solution are also assessed during this phase.

Shortlisted applicants are then invited to participate in a pitch presentation or an in-depth interview with the program's selection panel. Here, founders are expected to articulate their vision, demonstrate strategic thinking, and showcase their team's synergy.

The final selection decisions are made based on a holistic evaluation. Key criteria include the precise definition of the problem, the technical and market feasibility of the proposed solution, the demonstrated commitment and passion of the founders, and how well the startup's needs align with the specialized on-campus lab facilities available at Mahindra University. Successfully selected startups are then formally onboarded at the Mahindra University campus to commence their incubation journey.

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.