GENESIS Entrepreneur-in-Residence (EiR) Program Cohort 2 — Frequently Asked Questions
Answers to the questions founders most often ask about GENESIS Entrepreneur-in-Residence (EiR) Program Cohort 2 — who qualifies, the funding amount, required documents and how the application works.
Frequently asked questions
What is the GENESIS Entrepreneur-in-Residence (EiR) Program Cohort 2?
The GENESIS Entrepreneur-in-Residence (EiR) Program Cohort 2 is an initiative by the MeitY Startup Hub (MSH) and PIEDS that offers structured mentorship, ecosystem access, and financial support of up to ₹10 Lakhs to early-stage founders from Tier II and Tier III cities in India.
Who is the program provider for GENESIS EiR Cohort 2?
The program is provided by the Pilani Innovation & Entrepreneurship Development Society (PIEDS), which is based at BITS Pilani, Rajasthan.
What type of funding is provided, and what is the maximum amount?
The program offers a grant, which means it is non-dilutive and does not require equity. Selected founders can receive financial support of up to ₹10 Lakhs.
What is the application deadline for this program?
The application deadline for the GENESIS Entrepreneur-in-Residence (EiR) Program Cohort 2 is January 23, 2026.
Who is eligible to apply for the GENESIS EiR Program?
Eligible applicants must be Indian citizens, founders or co-founders of DPIIT-registered startups less than two years old, and based in Tier II or Tier III cities. Startups should not have received more than ₹10 Lakhs in prior external funding, including grants, and applicants must not have been previously supported by MeitY schemes.
Are there specific startup stages or industries that are prioritized?
Yes, the program supports startups at the ideation, concept development, validation, problem-solution fit, proof of concept (PoC), or prototyping/working prototype stages. It specifically focuses on Electronic Design and Manufacturing, Deeptech Software or Products, and ICT domains.
Is DPIIT registration a mandatory requirement for applicants?
Yes, applicants must be founders or co-founders of a startup that is officially registered with the Department for Promotion of Industry and Internal Trade (DPIIT).
Does the GENESIS EiR Program take equity from participating startups?
No, the program provides a grant, which is a form of non-dilutive funding. This means the program does not take any equity stake in the participating startups.
Where will selected entrepreneurs be physically incubated?
Selected entrepreneurs are required to be physically incubated at the Pilani Innovation & Entrepreneurship Development Society (PIEDS) at BITS Pilani, Rajasthan.
How can I apply for the GENESIS Entrepreneur-in-Residence (EiR) Program Cohort 2?
You can apply for the program through the official application form available at https://forms.gle/HspagEyJpXZzw6EN8.
How much funding does GENESIS Entrepreneur-in-Residence (EiR) Program Cohort 2 provide?
GENESIS Entrepreneur-in-Residence (EiR) Program Cohort 2 provides ₹10L (up to) as grant. Always confirm the exact amount and any conditions on the official site, as figures can change between cohorts.
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.
← Back to GENESIS Entrepreneur-in-Residence (EiR) Program Cohort 2 overview