Draper Richards Kaplan Foundation Funding
Global venture-philanthropy firm that funds early-stage, high-impact social enterprises with up to US$300,000 in unrestricted grants and three years of hands-on support.
- Funding amount
- ₹2.5Cr (grant)
- Funding type
- Grant
- Provider
- Draper Richards Kaplan Foundation (Foundation)
- Application deadline
- Rolling
- Eligible stage
- Any stage
- Location
- Open to startups registered in India
Overview
The Draper Richards Kaplan Foundation (DRK) is a global venture-philanthropy firm that provides early-stage, high-impact social enterprises with a significant boost. It offers up to US$300,000 in unrestricted grants, disbursed over three years, and an equivalent of up to US$500,000 in in-kind capacity support. This support includes intensive hands-on guidance, a dedicated board or portfolio seat, and access to DRK's extensive network of mentors, investors, and entrepreneurs. The foundation focuses on scaling solutions that tackle critical social or environmental challenges. It prioritises India as a geography while accepting applications from around the world.
Highlights
- Unrestricted grant of up to US$300,000
- Plus US$500,000 in-kind capacity support over 3 years
- Global rollout with India as a priority geography
- Open to nonprofits and for-profit hybrid social enterprises
- Rolling applications accepted year-round, no fixed deadline
Who can apply
Applications are open globally, with India as a priority geography. Ideal candidates are early-stage social enterprises, typically 3-5 years old, that have moved past the pilot phase and can demonstrate strong proof of traction. Both nonprofits and for-profit or hybrid models, such as B-corps and C-corps, are supported. Organizations must have a clear, scalable solution for a significant social or environmental issue.
Draper Richards Kaplan Foundation Funding 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
Draper Richards Kaplan Foundation Funding accepts applications on a rolling basis — there is no fixed cut-off date, so eligible startups can apply at any time. Because rolling programmes can pause without notice, confirm the window is still open on the official site before you start.
What the funding covers
- Unrestricted funding of up to US$300,000 disbursed over three years in instalments.
- In-kind support valued at up to US$500,000 over the same period, including hands-on strategic guidance.
- A board or portfolio seat for strategic oversight.
- Access to DRK's global network of mentors, investors, and fellow entrepreneurs.
About the provider
Draper Richards Kaplan Foundation Funding is offered by Draper Richards Kaplan Foundation, a non-profit foundation. It is delivered directly by Draper Richards Kaplan Foundation 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 reviewed by DRK's investment team, focusing on the scalability of the solution, proof of traction, strength of the leadership team, and high impact potential. Shortlisted candidates undergo thorough due diligence, which may include interviews, reference checks, and an operational and financial review. The DRK investment committee makes final selections, leading to an invitation to join the portfolio.
Documents you’ll need
Before you apply to Draper Richards Kaplan Foundation Funding, 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
Draper Richards Kaplan Foundation Funding is best suited for startups in India seeking non-dilutive funding of ₹2.5Cr. If that describes your startup, review the eligibility criteria above before applying.
Frequently asked questions
What kind of organizations does DRK fund?
DRK funds early-stage, high-impact social enterprises that have moved past pilot and have proof of traction. Both non-profit and for-profit/hybrid structures like B-corps and C-corps are eligible.
How much and what type of funding is offered?
DRK offers up to US$300,000 in unrestricted grant funding, disbursed over three years. Additionally, it provides unmatched capacity support worth up to US$500,000 in kind, including a board seat, mentorship, and network access.
Is there an application deadline?
No, there is no fixed deadline. The application process is open year-round on a rolling basis.
Are Indian startups eligible and do they have a faster track?
Yes, while the program is global in scope, India is one of DRK's priority geographies. Indian social enterprises are actively encouraged to apply.
What stage of development must an organization be at?
Typically, an early-stage enterprise that is 3–5 years old, has completed its pilot phase, and has demonstrable proof of traction with clear scalability potential is the appropriate stage.
Does DRK take equity from the organizations funded?
No, the grant provided is fully non‑dilutive. DRK does not seek any equity stake in the recipient organization.
Is DPIIT recognition required for Draper Richards Kaplan Foundation Funding?
No. DPIIT (Startup India) recognition is not listed as a mandatory requirement for Draper Richards Kaplan Foundation Funding, though having it can strengthen your application and unlock other benefits.
Who is eligible to apply for Draper Richards Kaplan Foundation Funding?
Draper Richards Kaplan Foundation Funding is open to startups at any stage. It is open to startups registered anywhere in India.
Who offers Draper Richards Kaplan Foundation Funding?
Draper Richards Kaplan Foundation Funding is offered by Draper Richards Kaplan Foundation, a non-profit foundation. It is provided as non-dilutive funding.
How do I apply for Draper Richards Kaplan Foundation Funding?
Apply directly through the official application link on this page. Review the eligibility criteria and prepare your startup documents before you begin.
Alternatives to Draper Richards Kaplan Foundation Funding
Not sure Draper Richards Kaplan Foundation Funding is the right fit, or already applied? These are other grants open to Indian startups that founders shortlist alongside it.
Questions from founders
Ask anything about eligibility, documents or the process — answered by the community.
No questions yet — be the first to ask.