Entrepreneur in Residence (EIR) Program at IITM Pravartak — Frequently Asked Questions
Answers to the questions founders most often ask about Entrepreneur in Residence (EIR) Program at IITM Pravartak — who qualifies, the funding amount, required documents and how the application works.
Frequently asked questions
Do I need a registered company to apply for the EIR program?
No. The EIR program is specifically for pre-incorporation individuals. You apply as an individual innovator without any registered entity.
What is the total funding amount offered?
The program offers a stipend of up to ₹35,000 per month for a maximum of 12 months, totaling up to ₹4.2 lakh. Payment is contingent on milestone reviews.
What technology areas are supported?
IITM Pravartak only accepts proposals in cyber-physical system components: Sensors, Networking, Actuators, and Control Systems.
Is there an application deadline?
The program has a rolling or always open deadline. You can apply at any time through the IITM Pravartak incubation portal.
Who owns the intellectual property created during the EIR period?
Patents and technology ideas generated during the EIR are jointly owned by IITM Pravartak and the inventor(s). IITM Pravartak bears the patent filing costs and later licenses the IP back to your startup with a royalty clause. An exclusive license option may be available under agreed terms.
What documents are needed for the application?
You must complete an EIR application form covering personal details, citizenship, education, profession, and work location, and submit a detailed proposal in the specified format including your objective, milestones, and expenditure plan.
What happens after I complete the EIR year?
Once you have a working prototype, you can apply to IITM Pravartak's PRAYAS or Seed Support System schemes for follow-on funding to take your product to market.
Where do I need to be based during the program?
You should be willing to engage with IITM Pravartak at the IIT Madras Research Park in Chennai during the EIR year to use lab facilities and receive mentorship.
Does IITM Pravartak take equity or ask for repayment?
No equity or repayment is taken for the EIR grant itself. However, the IP licensing terms include a royalty clause. The program is non-dilutive as a stipend.
How do I apply?
Sign up on the IITM Pravartak incubation portal and create an EIR account. Submit your application form and detailed proposal. Selection involves screening by the Technical Review Committee and a presentation to the Technical Evaluation Committee.
Is DPIIT recognition required for Entrepreneur in Residence (EIR) Program at IITM Pravartak?
No. DPIIT (Startup India) recognition is not listed as a mandatory requirement for Entrepreneur in Residence (EIR) Program at IITM Pravartak, though having it can strengthen your application and unlock other benefits.
Who is eligible to apply for Entrepreneur in Residence (EIR) Program at IITM Pravartak?
Entrepreneur in Residence (EIR) Program at IITM Pravartak is open to startups at the idea stage working in deeptech electronics robotics. It is open to startups registered anywhere in India. Applicants should be registered as individual.
Who offers Entrepreneur in Residence (EIR) Program at IITM Pravartak?
Entrepreneur in Residence (EIR) Program at IITM Pravartak is offered by IITM Pravartak Technologies Foundation, an academic institution. It is provided as non-dilutive funding.
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