Digi-SAPNE 2.0 Startup Acceleration Program at AIC SMU-TBIF
Digi-SAPNE 2.0 offers up to ₹80L grant funding and acceleration for tech startups from India's North Eastern states.
- Funding amount
- ₹80L (grant)
- Funding type
- Grant
- Provider
- AIC SMUTBI (Academic)
- Application deadline
- Closed (15 Jan 2026)
- Eligible stage
- Any stage
- Location
- Open to startups registered in India
Overview
Digi-SAPNE 2.0 (Startup Acceleration Program for North East) is a grant-focused acceleration initiative run by AIC SMU Technology Business Incubation Foundation in partnership with the Ministry of Electronics and Information Technology. It is designed specifically for early-stage entrepreneurs and startups based in or working for the North Eastern states of India who are addressing regional challenges through technology-driven solutions. The program aims to strengthen the startup ecosystem in the North East by offering financial support, structured acceleration, mentorship, and market access. Selected startups receive grant funding, participate in an intensive growth hack program, gain access to market opportunities, and can pitch to investors and industry leaders during Investor Meet and Demo Day.
Highlights
- Grant funding of up to ₹80L
- Collaboration with Ministry of Electronics and Information Technology
- Focused on early-stage startups from North Eastern states
- Technology-driven solutions for regional challenges
- Includes growth hack program, mentorship, and market access
- Demo Day and Investor Meet opportunities
Who can apply
This program is open to early-stage startups or entrepreneurs that are based in or actively working for the North Eastern states of India. Applicants must be leveraging technology to solve regional or societal challenges. Sectors of particular interest include IT/ITeS, agri-tech, tourism, AI, cloud technologies, and other emerging technologies.
Digi-SAPNE 2.0 Startup Acceleration Program at AIC SMU-TBIF 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 Digi-SAPNE 2.0 Startup Acceleration Program at AIC SMU-TBIF closed on 15 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 will receive grant funding of up to ₹80L. Beyond financial support, the program provides a structured acceleration phase, mentorship from industry experts, market access initiatives, and the opportunity to showcase solutions to investors and leaders at Investor Meet and Demo Day.
About the provider
Digi-SAPNE 2.0 Startup Acceleration Program at AIC SMU-TBIF is offered by AIC SMUTBI, an academic institution. It is delivered directly by AIC SMUTBI as a grant. You can verify current details and timelines on the provider's official website before applying.
Documents you’ll need
Before you apply to Digi-SAPNE 2.0 Startup Acceleration Program at AIC SMU-TBIF, 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
Digi-SAPNE 2.0 Startup Acceleration Program at AIC SMU-TBIF is best suited for startups in India seeking non-dilutive funding of ₹80L. If that describes your startup, review the eligibility criteria above before applying.
Frequently asked questions
What is the funding amount offered under Digi-SAPNE 2.0?
Selected startups can receive grant funding of up to ₹80L.
What is the application deadline for Digi-SAPNE 2.0?
The deadline for applications is January 15, 2026.
Who is eligible to apply for Digi-SAPNE 2.0?
Early-stage startups or entrepreneurs based in or working for India's North Eastern states, using technology to solve regional or societal challenges, are eligible.
Which sectors or industries does Digi-SAPNE 2.0 focus on?
The program encourages startups in IT/ITeS, agri-tech, tourism, AI, cloud technologies, and other emerging technologies.
Are startups from states outside the North East eligible?
No, the program is specifically for startups from the North Eastern states of India.
Is DPIIT or MSME registration required to apply?
The available information does not specify a requirement for DPIIT or MSME registration.
Does Digi-SAPNE 2.0 take equity from startups?
No, the funding is provided as a grant, which is non-dilutive and does not require equity.
What documents are typically needed for the application?
The program information does not list specific documents required.
How do I apply to Digi-SAPNE 2.0?
Applications are submitted via the online portal at https://smutbi.accubate.app/ext/form/16133/1/apply?source=startupgrantsindia.com&ref=startupgrantsindia.com.
What benefit do selected startups receive besides funding?
Startups get mentorship, an intensive growth hack program, market access initiatives, and an opportunity to showcase at Investor Meet and Demo Day.
Who offers Digi-SAPNE 2.0 Startup Acceleration Program at AIC SMU-TBIF?
Digi-SAPNE 2.0 Startup Acceleration Program at AIC SMU-TBIF is offered by AIC SMUTBI, an academic institution. It is provided as non-dilutive funding.
More funding from AIC SMUTBI
AIC SMUTBI runs another program listed on startupfunds — compare them before you decide where to apply.
Alternatives to Digi-SAPNE 2.0 Startup Acceleration Program at AIC SMU-TBIF
Not sure Digi-SAPNE 2.0 Startup Acceleration Program at AIC SMU-TBIF is the right fit, or already applied? These are other grants open to Indian startups that founders shortlist alongside it.
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