Entrepreneur-in-Residence (EiR) Program
Monthly grant of up to ₹30,000 for early-stage tech entrepreneurs to develop their startup idea full-time at IIT Tirupati.
- Funding amount
- ₹30,000 (grant)
- Funding type
- Grant
- Provider
- IIT Tirupati Navavishkar I-Hub Foundation (Academic)
- Application deadline
- Closed (18 Jan 2026)
- Eligible stage
- Any stage
- Location
- Open to startups registered in India
Overview
The Entrepreneur-in-Residence (EiR) Program at IIT Tirupati Navavishkar I-Hub Foundation (IITTNiF) is a grant-based initiative that supports aspiring innovators and first-generation entrepreneurs in technology-based entrepreneurship. It reduces early-stage financial risk, enabling founders to work full-time on their ideas. Powered by Operation Dronagiri and the Geo-Intel Lab at IITTNiF, the program targets deep-tech ideas with high potential for commercialization. Selected fellows receive structured mentorship, prototyping lab access, co-working space, and business connections to build product-driven, scalable startups. The goal is to strengthen technology, create jobs, and deliver social impact. Fellows also gain a pathway to incubation at IITTNiF for further product development and market launch.
The program provides a monthly fellowship of up to ₹30,000, allowing entrepreneurs to dedicate themselves fully to their startup without worrying about personal expenses. Unlike equity-based funding, this grant is non-dilutive, meaning the innovator retains full ownership.
Highlights
- Grant of up to ₹30,000 per month – no equity taken.
- Open to Indian citizens with a science/engineering background.
- Must be a first-generation entrepreneur working full-time.
- Focus on deep-tech, scalable, commercialization-driven ideas.
- Includes mentorship, lab access, and incubation pathway.
- Application deadline: 18 January 2026.
Who can apply
To apply, you must meet the following criteria:
- Indian citizen only.
- Completed 4 years of full-time undergraduate or postgraduate education in science or engineering; OR a 3-year science/engineering degree or diploma with 2 years of full-time work experience.
- Be a first-generation entrepreneur and commit full-time to the proposed idea.
- Demonstrate a scalable, technology-based business idea aimed at commercialization.
- Willing to register for incubation at IITTNiF.
- You must not be a promoter or significant shareholder (more than 10%) in another company.
- You must not have availed any other startup or innovator grant earlier.
Entrepreneur-in-Residence (EiR) Program 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 Entrepreneur-in-Residence (EiR) Program closed on 18 Jan 2026. Many programmes run repeat cohorts, so it is worth checking the official site for the next round.
What the funding covers
Selected EiR fellows receive:
- Monthly fellowship support of up to ₹30,000 (grant – no equity taken).
- Structured mentorship from IIT Tirupati experts and industry professionals.
- Access to co-working spaces and prototyping labs at IITTNiF.
- Business and industry connect opportunities.
- Pathway to incubation at IITTNiF for further product development and commercialization.
About the provider
Entrepreneur-in-Residence (EiR) Program is offered by IIT Tirupati Navavishkar I-Hub Foundation, an academic institution. It is delivered directly by IIT Tirupati Navavishkar I-Hub 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
The selection process is not detailed in the source. However, since the program is hosted by IIT Tirupati Navavishkar I-Hub Foundation, it typically involves an application review, shortlisting, and interview. For precise stages, refer to the official website.
Documents you’ll need
Before you apply to Entrepreneur-in-Residence (EiR) Program, 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
Entrepreneur-in-Residence (EiR) Program is best suited for startups in India seeking non-dilutive funding of ₹30,000. If that describes your startup, review the eligibility criteria above before applying.
Frequently asked questions
How much funding does the EiR Program offer?
Selected fellows receive a monthly grant of up to ₹30,000. This is a fellowship, not a loan or equity, so you retain full ownership of your startup.
What is the application deadline?
The deadline is 18 January 2026. Apply well in advance to complete your application.
Who is eligible to apply?
You must be an Indian citizen, have 4 years of full-time undergrad or postgraduate education in science or engineering (or a 3-year degree/diploma plus 2 years of work experience), and be a first-generation entrepreneur committing full-time to your tech-based, scalable idea.
Do I need DPIIT or MSME registration?
The eligibility criteria do not require DPIIT or MSME registration. However, you must be willing to register for incubation at IITTNiF.
Does the program take equity?
No. The funding is a grant (fellowship), so no equity is taken from your startup.
What kind of ideas are supported?
The program focuses on deep-tech, technology-based business ideas that are scalable and aimed at commercialization. Social impact and job creation are also considered.
Can I apply if I already have another startup or grant?
No. You must not be a promoter or hold more than 10% in another company, and you must not have availed any other startup or innovator grant previously.
What documents are needed to apply?
The source does not list specific documents, but typical requirements include your educational certificates, proof of Indian citizenship, a detailed business proposal, and any work experience certificates (if applicable).
How and where do I apply?
Applications are submitted online via the Operation Dronagiri website at https://dronagiribharat.com/entrepreneurs-in-residence/. Follow the instructions on the page.
What happens after selection?
Selected fellows receive monthly support, mentorship, access to labs and co-working space, and are guided toward incubation at IITTNiF for product development and commercialization.
Who offers Entrepreneur-in-Residence (EiR) Program?
Entrepreneur-in-Residence (EiR) Program is offered by IIT Tirupati Navavishkar I-Hub Foundation, an academic institution. It is provided as non-dilutive funding.
How do I apply for Entrepreneur-in-Residence (EiR) Program?
Apply directly through the official application link on this page. Review the eligibility criteria and prepare your startup documents before you begin.
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Alternatives to Entrepreneur-in-Residence (EiR) Program
Not sure Entrepreneur-in-Residence (EiR) Program is the right fit, or already applied? These are other grants open to Indian startups that founders shortlist alongside it.
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