GENESIS Entrepreneur-in-Residence (EiR) Program Cohort 2
A grant-based program by MeitY Startup Hub for early-stage founders from Tier II/III cities offering up to ₹10 lakh, mentorship, and incubation at BITS Pilani.
- Funding amount
- ₹10L (grant)
- Funding type
- Grant
- Provider
- PIEDS (Academic)
- Application deadline
- Closed (23 Jan 2026)
- Eligible stage
- Any stage
- Location
- Open to startups registered in India
Overview
The GENESIS Entrepreneur-in-Residence (EiR) Program Cohort 2, run by Pilani Innovation & Entrepreneurship Development Society (PIEDS) under MeitY Startup Hub (MSH), aims to nurture early-stage founders from Tier II and Tier III cities across India. Selected entrepreneurs receive a grant of up to ₹10 lakh, hands-on mentorship, and ecosystem support to help validate and build their startup ideas. Participants are physically incubated at PIEDS, BITS Pilani, Rajasthan. The program targets startups in Electronic Design and Manufacturing, Deeptech Software or Products, and ICT domains.
Highlights
- Grant of up to ₹10 lakh provided to early-stage founders.
- Physical incubation at PIEDS, BITS Pilani, Rajasthan.
- Open only to startups from Tier II and Tier III cities in India.
- Focus on Electronic Design & Manufacturing, Deeptech Software/Products, and ICT domains.
- Application deadline: January 23, 2026.
- Part of MeitY Startup Hub's GENESIS initiative, offering one-time EiR support.
Who can apply
Only Indian citizens can apply. The applicant or their entity must be registered from a Tier II or Tier III city in India. Founders or co-founders of a DPIIT-registered startup that is no more than 2 years old are eligible. The startup must not have received external funding exceeding ₹10 lakh, including government grants. Applicants must not have been previously supported under any MeitY schemes. The startup idea should be at the ideation, concept development, validation/problem-solution fit, proof of concept (PoC), or prototyping/working prototype stage. During the program, participants must commit to working full-time on their startup and be willing to be physically incubated at PIEDS, BITS Pilani, Rajasthan. EiR support can be availed only once per individual.
GENESIS Entrepreneur-in-Residence (EiR) Program Cohort 2 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 GENESIS Entrepreneur-in-Residence (EiR) Program Cohort 2 closed on 23 Jan 2026. Many programmes run repeat cohorts, so it is worth checking the official site for the next round.
What the funding covers
Selected entrepreneurs receive up to ₹10 lakh in grant funding for their startup. The program provides structured mentorship, ecosystem access, and hands-on support at the PIEDS incubation centre in BITS Pilani to help kickstart the entrepreneurial journey.
About the provider
GENESIS Entrepreneur-in-Residence (EiR) Program Cohort 2 is offered by PIEDS, an academic institution. It is delivered directly by PIEDS 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 GENESIS Entrepreneur-in-Residence (EiR) Program Cohort 2, 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
GENESIS Entrepreneur-in-Residence (EiR) Program Cohort 2 is best suited for startups in India seeking non-dilutive funding of ₹10L. If that describes your startup, review the eligibility criteria above before applying.
Frequently asked questions
How much funding is offered under the GENESIS EiR Program Cohort 2?
Selected entrepreneurs receive a grant of up to ₹10 lakh.
What is the application deadline?
The deadline to apply is January 23, 2026.
Who is eligible to apply?
Only Indian citizens from Tier II or Tier III cities can apply. You must be a founder or co-founder of a DPIIT-registered startup that is less than 2 years old, with no prior significant funding (over ₹10 lakh) and not previously supported under any MeitY schemes. The idea should be in ideation, concept, validation, PoC, or prototype stage.
Do I need DPIIT or MSME registration?
DPIIT registration is required for your startup. MSME registration is not mentioned as a requirement.
Does the program take equity?
The program provides a grant of up to ₹10 lakh, which is non-dilutive. No equity is taken.
In which sectors can I apply?
The program specifically supports startups in Electronic Design and Manufacturing, Deeptech Software or Products, and ICT domains.
Will I need to relocate?
Yes, selected applicants must be willing to be physically incubated at PIEDS, BITS Pilani, Rajasthan for the duration of the program.
How often can I avail this EiR support?
The EiR support under GENESIS can be availed only once.
What documents are needed to apply?
The specific documents are not listed, but typical requirements include proof of DPIIT registration, identity proof, and a startup pitch deck or business plan. It is best to check the application form for details.
Where can I apply?
You can apply through the official Google Form link provided: https://forms.gle/HspagEyJpXZzw6EN8
Who offers GENESIS Entrepreneur-in-Residence (EiR) Program Cohort 2?
GENESIS Entrepreneur-in-Residence (EiR) Program Cohort 2 is offered by PIEDS, an academic institution. It is provided as non-dilutive funding.
How do I apply for GENESIS Entrepreneur-in-Residence (EiR) Program Cohort 2?
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 GENESIS Entrepreneur-in-Residence (EiR) Program Cohort 2
Not sure GENESIS Entrepreneur-in-Residence (EiR) Program Cohort 2 is the right fit, or already applied? These are other grants open to Indian startups that founders shortlist alongside it.
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