Business Accelerator Program – Cohort 2
A exclusive six-month accelerator for SC/ST entrepreneurs, co-supported by Ministry of MSME. Features mentorship, workshops, and ecosystem access at IIM Nagpur. All-expenses covered? (grant funding: less than or equal to ₹15 lakh) for cohort 1? OK provided. This page describes avail offers: highlight benefits & apply.
- Funding amount
- Varies by program
- Funding type
- Grant
- Provider
- InFED, IIM Nagpur (Academic)
- Application deadline
- Closed (11 Jan 2026)
- Eligible stage
- Any stage
- Location
- Open to startups registered in India
Overview
The Business Accelerator Program – Cohort 2 is a six-month capacity-building accelerator designed exclusively for SC–ST entrepreneurs. Organised by AIC-InFED at IIM Nagpur in partnership with the National SC/ST Hub, the program receives support from the World Bank-backed RAMP Project under the Ministry of Micro, Small and Medium Enterprises (MSME), Government of India. The accelerator provides a structured blend of residential training, online modules, project-based guidance, and incubation support. Participants benefit from expert-led sessions on business strategy, innovation, finance, market access and scale-up tactics, and become integrated into the startup ecosystem at IIM Nagpur.
Highlights
- Exclusive accelerator for SC/ST entrepreneurs only
- Program length – six months; both online and on-campus sessions
- Women SC/ST founders given preference
- Grant-funded; no equity taken
- Jointly run by AIC-InFED, IIM Nagpur & the National SC/ST Hub with MSME-World Bank support
- Traders (Udyam trading category) cannot apply
Who can apply
This programme is open only to entrepreneurs from the SC or ST community. To apply, you must be 18 years or older and a graduate in any discipline. Female SC/ST founders will be given preference. If you are a ward of an SC/ST entrepreneur, you must upload proof of relationship and a nomination form. Importantly, applicants whose Udyam Registration lists trading as the primary activity are NOT eligible.
Business Accelerator Program – Cohort 2 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 Business Accelerator Program – Cohort 2 closed on 11 Jan 2026. Many programmes run repeat cohorts, so it is worth checking the official site for the next round.
What the funding covers
The programme is grant-funded, covering a six-month accelerator comprising residential bootcamps, live online learning, hands-on project guidance and extended incubation support at IIM Nagpur. Participants gain access to an experienced mentor network, industry-connect sessions, and tailored support in business strategy, finance, innovation and market access – all as part of the ecosystem at IIM Nagpur’s incubation centre.
About the provider
Business Accelerator Program – Cohort 2 is offered by InFED, IIM Nagpur, an academic institution. It is delivered directly by InFED, IIM Nagpur 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
Applications are accepted via a Google Form by January 11, 2026. The team reviews each application based on the eligibility criteria. Selected candidates are notified for further steps (such as interviews or shortlisting rounds). The exact post-application stages are managed by AIC-InFED and partners.
Documents you’ll need
Before you apply to Business Accelerator Program – Cohort 2, 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
Who runs this accelerator?
It is organised by AIC-InFED at IIM Nagpur in collaboration with the National SC/ST Hub and is supported under the World Bank-backed RAMP Project of the Ministry of MSME, Government of India.
What is the deadline to apply?
Applications close on January 11, 2026.
Is this program open to all startups?
No, it is exclusively for entrepreneurs from Scheduled Castes and Scheduled Tribes.
Are women entrepreneurs given preference?
Yes, women SC/ST candidates will be preferred during selection.
Do I need MSME (Udyam) registration to apply?
Possibly, as the form may request it, but the eligibility clarifies that applicants with trading as the major Udyam activity are not eligible. If you do not have a Udyam certificate now, download the details from Form.
Does Business Accelerator Program – Cohort 2 take equity?
No. Business Accelerator Program – Cohort 2 is grant and is non-dilutive — the provider does not take an equity stake in your startup.
Is DPIIT recognition required for Business Accelerator Program – Cohort 2?
No. DPIIT (Startup India) recognition is not listed as a mandatory requirement for Business Accelerator Program – Cohort 2, though having it can strengthen your application and unlock other benefits.
Who is eligible to apply for Business Accelerator Program – Cohort 2?
Business Accelerator Program – Cohort 2 is open to startups at any stage. It is open to startups registered anywhere in India.
How do I apply for Business Accelerator Program – Cohort 2?
Apply directly through the official application link on this page. Review the eligibility criteria and prepare your startup documents before you begin.
More funding from InFED, IIM Nagpur
InFED, IIM Nagpur runs 2 other programs listed on startupfunds — compare them before you decide where to apply.
Alternatives to Business Accelerator Program – Cohort 2
Not sure Business Accelerator Program – Cohort 2 is the right fit, or already applied? These are other grants open to Indian startups that founders shortlist alongside it.
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