ASIIM Program
Grant-based incubation for SC and Divyang innovators, up to ₹30L, from IIT Mandi Catalyst and MoSJ&E.
- Funding amount
- ₹30.0L (grant)
- Funding type
- Grant
- Provider
- IIT Mandi Catalyst (Academic)
- Application deadline
- Closed (23 Jan 2026)
- Eligible stage
- Any stage
- Location
- Open to startups registered in India
Overview
The Ambedkar Social Innovation and Incubation Mission (ASIIM) is a program implemented by IIT Mandi Catalyst to promote inclusive entrepreneurship among Scheduled Caste (SC) and Divyang (persons with disabilities) innovators. Launched by the Ministry of Social Justice and Empowerment (MoSJ&E) under the IFCI Venture Capital Fund for SCs (VCF-SC), ASIIM provides incubation and funding support for early-stage, technology-driven, and socially impactful business ideas.
The program helps innovators convert ideas into sustainable commercial ventures through structured mentorship, networking opportunities, fundraising assistance, and equity-based financial support of up to ₹30 lakhs. It aims to empower underrepresented communities and foster innovation-led social and economic development.
Highlights
- Equity-based funding of up to ₹30 lakhs per venture
- Open exclusively to Scheduled Caste (SC) and Divyang innovators
- Run by IIT Mandi Catalyst under Ministry of Social Justice and Empowerment
- Supports ideation, prototyping, and pre-revenue stages
- Includes mentorship, networking, and fundraising support
- Applications accepted until January 23, 2026
Who can apply
Applicants must belong to the Scheduled Caste (SC) or Divyang (disability) category. The startup or idea should be at the ideation, prototyping, or pre-revenue stage. Innovators aiming to solve societal problems through their ideas are eligible. Winners of hackathons such as Smart India Hackathon can apply. Startups receiving CSR support from companies are also eligible. Students or youth with innovative and creative ideas can apply.
ASIIM 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 ASIIM Program closed on 23 Jan 2026. Many programmes run repeat cohorts, so it is worth checking the official site for the next round.
What the funding covers
Up to ₹30 lakhs in equity-based financial support. Structured incubation support including mentorship, networking opportunities, and fundraising assistance.
About the provider
ASIIM Program is offered by IIT Mandi Catalyst, an academic institution. It is delivered directly by IIT Mandi Catalyst 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
Interested applicants must apply via the online application form. Selected innovators undergo a screening and evaluation process by IIT Mandi Catalyst and its partners. Shortlisted candidates are invited for further discussions and pitch sessions. Final selection is based on the potential for social impact, technological innovation, and scalability.
Documents you’ll need
Before you apply to ASIIM 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.
Who this is best for
ASIIM Program is best suited for startups in India seeking non-dilutive funding of ₹30.0L. If that describes your startup, review the eligibility criteria above before applying.
Frequently asked questions
How much funding is offered under the ASIIM Program?
Selected innovators can receive up to ₹30 lakhs in equity-based financial support.
What is the application deadline?
The deadline to apply is January 23, 2026.
Who is eligible to apply?
Applicants must belong to the Scheduled Caste (SC) or Divyang (disability) category. Their startup or idea should be at the ideation, prototyping, or pre-revenue stage. There is no restriction on sector, but the idea must be technology-driven and socially impactful.
Is DPIIT or MSME registration required?
No, DPIIT or MSME registration is not mentioned as a requirement for this program.
Does the program take equity?
Yes, the funding is described as 'equity-based financial support', meaning the program takes an equity stake in the venture.
What stage of startup is supported?
ASIIM supports early-stage ideas at the ideation, prototyping, or pre-revenue stage.
Can winners of hackathons apply?
Yes, winners of hackathons such as Smart India Hackathon are eligible to apply.
How do I apply?
You can apply through the online application form provided by IIT Mandi Catalyst at the official link.
What documents are needed?
The application process requires filling an online form. Specific document requirements are not listed, but applicants may need to provide identity proof, caste/disability certificate, and a business pitch.
Is the program open to students?
Yes, students or youth with innovative and creative ideas can apply.
Who offers ASIIM Program?
ASIIM Program is offered by IIT Mandi Catalyst, an academic institution. It is provided as non-dilutive funding.
More funding from IIT Mandi Catalyst
IIT Mandi Catalyst runs 6 other programs listed on startupfunds — compare them before you decide where to apply.
Alternatives to ASIIM Program
Not sure ASIIM Program is the right fit, or already applied? These are other grants open to Indian startups that founders shortlist alongside it.
Questions from founders
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