Startup Seed Fund (Zerodha CSR Initiative)
FSID Startup Seed Fund, powered by Zerodha CSR, offers grant funding and incubation for early-stage deep-tech startups in Sustainability, CleanTech, and HealthTech at IISc.
- Funding amount
- Varies by program
- Funding type
- Grant
- Provider
- FSID, IISc (Incubator)
- Application deadline
- Closes in 2d (17 Jul 2026)
- Eligible stage
- Any stage
- Location
- Open to startups registered in India
Overview
The FSID Startup Seed Fund, backed by Zerodha's CSR initiative, is a non-repayable grant program for early-stage deep-tech startups. Hosted at the FSID STEM Cell deep science incubator under the Indian Institute of Science (IISc), the fund targets science-led solutions in Sustainability, CleanTech, and HealthTech that can drive significant societal and environmental impact. The program combines financial support with a comprehensive incubation ecosystem, including rental-free lab and office space on the IISc campus, access to world-class research facilities, and mentorship from IISc faculty and industry experts. It is designed to help founders transform cutting-edge research into viable commercial ventures, addressing global challenges with deep technology.
Highlights
- Non-repayable grant funding from Zerodha CSR.
- Focus on deep-tech in Sustainability, CleanTech, HealthTech.
- Rental-free incubation space and lab access at IISc.
- Mentorship from IISc faculty and industry experts.
- Connections to investors for follow-on funding.
Who can apply
The program is open to early-stage deep-tech startups working on science-led solutions in Sustainability, CleanTech, and HealthTech sectors. Startups must have the potential to create meaningful societal and environmental impact. There is no restriction on IISc affiliation — the call is open to all eligible companies, not just IISc alumni. Founders should be building IP-based ventures, though specific entity types or DPIIT/MSME registration are not mandated.
Startup Seed Fund (Zerodha CSR Initiative) 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
Applications for Startup Seed Fund (Zerodha CSR Initiative) are open and the current deadline is Closes in 2d (17 Jul 2026). Applications are closing soon, so prepare your documents early. Deadlines can change — always reconfirm on the official source before submitting.
What the funding covers
- Non-repayable grant funding from Zerodha's CSR, with no equity taken.
- Rental-free physical incubation space on the IISc campus, fully furnished.
- Access to IISc labs and prototyping facilities.
- Dedicated technical and business mentoring from IISc faculty and industry experts.
- Cloud credits to support technology development.
- Peer network within the FSID STEM Cell ecosystem.
- Connections to angel investors, venture capitalists, and corporates for follow-on funding.
- Incubation support including training workshops and grants facilitation.
About the provider
Startup Seed Fund (Zerodha CSR Initiative) is offered by FSID, IISc, a startup incubator. It is delivered directly by FSID, IISc 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 a jury comprising the FSID Core Team, IISc faculty, other academic experts, financial and legal professionals, partner organizations, and domain industry experts. Evaluation criteria include:
- Strength of the entrepreneurial team
- Clarity of customer problem definition
- Novelty of technology and intellectual property
- Competitive landscape analysis
- Market potential and viability of the business model
- Financial projections
- Potential for societal impact Shortlisted startups may be invited for further presentations or interviews.
Documents you’ll need
Before you apply to Startup Seed Fund (Zerodha CSR Initiative), 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
What is the amount of funding offered?
The program provides grant funding, but the exact amount is not specified and varies per startup.
What is the application deadline?
The last date to apply is July 17, 2026.
Which sectors are eligible?
Startups in Sustainability, CleanTech, and HealthTech are eligible.
Is this program open to startups outside IISc?
Yes, the program is open to all eligible early-stage deep-tech startups, not limited to IISc alumni.
Does the program take equity?
No, it is a grant program funded by Zerodha's CSR, so no equity is taken.
What kind of startups are you looking for?
We seek early-stage deep-tech startups with science-led solutions that have potential for significant societal and environmental impact.
What documents are needed to apply?
You need to provide details about your team, solution, business plan, and societal impact. A pitch deck or business plan may be required.
How do I apply?
Access the application form via the Google Form link or QR code provided on the program page and submit before the deadline.
Is DPIIT recognition required for Startup Seed Fund (Zerodha CSR Initiative)?
No. DPIIT (Startup India) recognition is not listed as a mandatory requirement for Startup Seed Fund (Zerodha CSR Initiative), though having it can strengthen your application and unlock other benefits.
Who is eligible to apply for Startup Seed Fund (Zerodha CSR Initiative)?
Startup Seed Fund (Zerodha CSR Initiative) is open to startups at any stage. It is open to startups registered anywhere in India.
Who offers Startup Seed Fund (Zerodha CSR Initiative)?
Startup Seed Fund (Zerodha CSR Initiative) is offered by FSID, IISc, a startup incubator. It is provided as non-dilutive funding.
Alternatives to Startup Seed Fund (Zerodha CSR Initiative)
Not sure Startup Seed Fund (Zerodha CSR Initiative) is the right fit, or already applied? These are other grants open to Indian startups that founders shortlist alongside it.
Questions from founders
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