Amrita TBI x Berkeley SkyDeck Accelerator Program
This highly competitive global accelerator, a collaboration between Amrita TBI and Berkeley SkyDeck, aims to propel high-potential Indian startups to international scale through immersive Silicon Valley exposure.
- Funding amount
- Varies by program
- Funding type
- Grant
- Provider
- Amrita Technology Business Incubator (Academic)
- Application deadline
- Closed (31 Jan 2026)
- Eligible stage
- Any stage
- Location
- Open to startups registered in India
Overview
The Amrita TBI x Berkeley SkyDeck Accelerator Program is a prestigious global initiative designed to empower promising Indian startups with the resources and connections needed for international expansion. This highly competitive program focuses on enabling high-potential ventures to scale effectively by immersing them in the vibrant Silicon Valley ecosystem.
This accelerator is a collaborative effort between the Amrita Technology Business Incubator (Amrita TBI) and Berkeley SkyDeck, a leading university-linked accelerator backed by UC Berkeley and prominent Silicon Valley investors. It provides a unique platform for startups to tap into an unparalleled global network of investors, experienced mentors, and a strong alumni community.
Participants in the program receive significant investment support alongside access to one of the world's most robust innovation networks. This comprehensive support is crucial for accelerating product development, facilitating successful market entry, and driving global growth for selected Indian startups.
Highlights
- Global accelerator for high-potential Indian startups.
- Jointly run by Amrita TBI and Berkeley SkyDeck.
- Provides significant grant funding and Silicon Valley exposure.
- Access to a global network of investors, mentors, and alumni.
- Open to sector-agnostic startups with strong global market potential.
- Preference for startups with revenue above ₹1 crore or major product milestones.
Who can apply
The Amrita TBI x Berkeley SkyDeck Accelerator Program targets Indian startups demonstrating strong potential for global market expansion.
Applicants must be sector-agnostic, with the program welcoming innovations across various fields including consumer technology, B2B software, IT, hardware, digital health, deep tech, and life sciences. A key requirement is that startups should be positioned to become investable within a six-month timeframe.
Preference is extended to ventures that have achieved a revenue exceeding ₹1 crore or have reached significant product development milestones. Furthermore, founding teams are expected to be fully committed to the entire six-month duration of the program.
Eligible startups must also exhibit a clear understanding of their target customer, possess a well-defined pricing strategy, provide robust market size estimates, conduct thorough competitive analysis, and showcase strong differentiation in their offerings. While not mandatory, having an affiliation with the University of California (UC) is considered an advantage during the selection process.
Amrita TBI x Berkeley SkyDeck Accelerator Program 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 Amrita TBI x Berkeley SkyDeck Accelerator Program closed on 31 Jan 2026. Many programmes run repeat cohorts, so it is worth checking the official site for the next round.
What the funding covers
Selected startups receive significant grant funding to fuel their growth and expansion. Beyond financial support, participants gain unparalleled access to one of the world's most robust innovation networks.
This includes direct exposure to a global ecosystem of leading investors, seasoned mentors, and a powerful alumni community, all based in Silicon Valley. These resources are designed to help accelerate product development, facilitate successful market entry into new territories, and drive comprehensive global expansion strategies.
About the provider
Amrita TBI x Berkeley SkyDeck Accelerator Program is offered by Amrita Technology Business Incubator, an academic institution. It is delivered directly by Amrita Technology Business Incubator 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
The selection process for the Amrita TBI x Berkeley SkyDeck Accelerator Program is rigorous and multi-staged:
- Interested startups must first submit their online application through the official Amrita TBI program page.
- Applications then undergo multiple screening and selection rounds by the program organizers.
- Shortlisted startups are subsequently invited to participate in further evaluation and interview sessions.
- The final selection of participating startups is made jointly by the Amrita Technology Business Incubator and Berkeley SkyDeck.
- Successfully selected startups are then onboarded into the six-month accelerator program, where they begin receiving investment and mentorship support.
Documents you’ll need
Before you apply to Amrita TBI x Berkeley SkyDeck Accelerator Program, 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 through this accelerator program?
The Amrita TBI x Berkeley SkyDeck Accelerator Program provides grant funding to selected startups. The specific amount of funding varies based on the individual needs and potential of each participating startup.
What is the application deadline for the Amrita TBI x Berkeley SkyDeck Accelerator Program?
The current application deadline for this program is January 31, 2026. Interested startups should ensure their submissions are completed before this date.
Who is eligible to apply for this program?
The program is open to Indian startups that demonstrate strong potential for global market expansion. Key eligibility criteria include being capable of becoming investable within six months, having a fully committed founding team for the entire program duration, and possessing a clear market strategy with strong differentiation.
Does the Amrita TBI x Berkeley SkyDeck Accelerator Program take equity from participating startups?
No, as this program offers grant funding, it does not require startups to give up any equity in their company.
Are there any specific industry or sector requirements for applicants?
No, the program is sector-agnostic. It welcomes applications from startups across a wide range of industries, including consumer technology, B2B software, IT, hardware, digital health, deep tech, and life sciences.
What are the commitments for founding teams participating in the program?
Founding teams are required to be fully committed for the entire six-month duration of the accelerator program. This ensures maximum engagement and benefit from the resources and mentorship provided.
Is a University of California (UC) affiliation mandatory for applicants?
No, a University of California (UC) affiliation is not mandatory to apply for the program. However, having such an affiliation is considered an advantage during the selection process.
How can interested startups apply to the Amrita TBI x Berkeley SkyDeck Accelerator Program?
Interested startups can submit their applications online by visiting the official Amrita TBI program page. The application process involves multiple screening rounds followed by evaluations and interviews for shortlisted candidates.
What kind of support is provided beyond funding in this accelerator?
Beyond grant funding, selected startups gain access to an unparalleled global ecosystem in Silicon Valley, including leading investors, experienced mentors, and a strong alumni network. This support aims to accelerate product development, market entry, and global expansion.
Is DPIIT recognition required for Amrita TBI x Berkeley SkyDeck Accelerator Program?
No. DPIIT (Startup India) recognition is not listed as a mandatory requirement for Amrita TBI x Berkeley SkyDeck Accelerator Program, though having it can strengthen your application and unlock other benefits.
Who offers Amrita TBI x Berkeley SkyDeck Accelerator Program?
Amrita TBI x Berkeley SkyDeck Accelerator Program is offered by Amrita Technology Business Incubator, an academic institution. It is provided as non-dilutive funding.
How do I apply for Amrita TBI x Berkeley SkyDeck Accelerator Program?
Apply directly through the official application link on this page. Review the eligibility criteria and prepare your startup documents before you begin.
Alternatives to Amrita TBI x Berkeley SkyDeck Accelerator Program
Not sure Amrita TBI x Berkeley SkyDeck Accelerator Program is the right fit, or already applied? These are other grants open to Indian startups that founders shortlist alongside it.
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