ASIIM Program — Frequently Asked Questions
Answers to the questions founders most often ask about ASIIM Program — who qualifies, the funding amount, required documents and how the application works.
Frequently asked questions
What is the Ambedkar Social Innovation and Incubation Mission (ASIIM) Program?
The ASIIM Program is an incubation and funding initiative implemented by IIT Mandi Catalyst. It was launched by the Ministry of Social Justice and Empowerment to promote inclusive entrepreneurship among innovators from Scheduled Caste (SC) and Divyang communities by supporting technology-driven and socially impactful business ideas.
Who is eligible to apply for the ASIIM Program?
The program is specifically for applicants belonging to the Scheduled Caste (SC) or Divyang categories. Eligible ideas should be at the ideation, prototyping, or pre-revenue stage, focusing on solving societal problems. This also includes hackathon winners, startups with CSR support, and students or youth with innovative ideas.
What kind of financial support does the ASIIM Program offer?
The ASIIM Program provides equity-based financial support, offering up to ₹30 lakhs to selected innovators to help them develop their ideas into sustainable commercial ventures.
Does the ASIIM Program take equity from the startups?
Yes, the program provides equity-based financial support, meaning it takes a stake in the selected ventures as part of its funding model.
What non-financial benefits do participants receive?
Beyond funding, participants receive comprehensive structured incubation support. This includes expert mentorship, valuable networking opportunities with industry leaders, and dedicated assistance with fundraising to help secure additional capital.
What is the application deadline for the ASIIM Program?
The current application deadline for the ASIIM Program is January 23, 2026.
Are there any specific industry or stage requirements for applicants?
The program targets technology-driven and socially impactful business ideas at early stages, specifically ideation, prototyping, or pre-revenue. While no specific industries are listed, the focus is on ideas that solve societal problems.
How can I apply for the ASIIM Program?
You can apply for the ASIIM Program through the official application form provided by IIT Mandi Catalyst. The application portal can be accessed via the link: https://forms.zohopublic.in/documents1/form/IITMandiCatalystApplicationForm/formperma/ia9DNjSmH4gFdnNur2-1yw3vApYYze-vtdMR9JY8dcA
How much funding does ASIIM Program provide?
ASIIM Program provides ₹30.0L (up to) as grant. Always confirm the exact amount and any conditions on the official site, as figures can change between cohorts.
Is DPIIT recognition required for ASIIM Program?
No. DPIIT (Startup India) recognition is not listed as a mandatory requirement for ASIIM Program, though having it can strengthen your application and unlock other benefits.
Who offers ASIIM Program?
ASIIM Program is offered by IIT Mandi Catalyst, an academic institution. It is provided as non-dilutive funding.