iAccelerate 4.0 – Tamil Nadu Hardware Accelerator for Prototype & Product Startups — Frequently Asked Questions
Answers to the questions founders most often ask about iAccelerate 4.0 – Tamil Nadu Hardware Accelerator for Prototype & Product Startups — who qualifies, the funding amount, required documents and how the application works.
Frequently asked questions
What is the funding amount offered by iAccelerate 4.0?
Selected startups receive government-backed design vouchers worth ₹7.5L to ₹15L.
What is the deadline for applying to iAccelerate 4.0?
The deadline to apply is February 18, 2026.
Who can apply for iAccelerate 4.0?
Hardware-focused startups registered and operational in Tamil Nadu for at least one year. They must be working on an innovative hardware product at TRL 2-9 and have at least two-thirds of directors with a CIBIL score of 650 or above.
Is DPIIT or MSME registration required to apply?
The eligibility criteria do not specify a requirement for DPIIT or MSME registration, but the program connects startups with MSME manufacturers.
Does iAccelerate 4.0 take equity from startups?
No, the funding is provided as a grant in the form of design vouchers, so no equity is taken.
What documents are needed to apply?
You must upload the Certificate of Incorporation, Company PAN Card, GST Registration Certificate, Pitch Deck, Product Concept Document, and CIBIL score screenshots of directors. Optional documents include patents, IP filings, or previous funding term sheets.
What is the selection process for iAccelerate 4.0?
Applications are reviewed by iTNT Hub, shortlisted startups undergo an evaluation process, and final selection places them into either the Design Track or Scale Track. A tri-partite agreement is then executed.
How long is the accelerator program?
The program runs for 12 weeks and is a hybrid (online and offline) intensive programme.
How do I apply for iAccelerate 4.0?
You can apply by completing the official TN-HAPP application form available online at the provided link. The form has nine structured sections with checkboxes and short responses.
What are the two tracks in iAccelerate 4.0?
The accelerator has two dedicated tracks aligned with Technology Readiness Levels (TRLs): the Design Track for early-stage startups and the Scale Track for more advanced hardware development stages.
Who offers iAccelerate 4.0 – Tamil Nadu Hardware Accelerator for Prototype & Product Startups?
iAccelerate 4.0 – Tamil Nadu Hardware Accelerator for Prototype & Product Startups is offered by Tamil Nadu Technology Hub (iTNT Hub), a government body. It is provided as non-dilutive funding.