IFCI Scheme for Scheduled Tribe Innovators
Equity funding up to ₹30 lakh for Scheduled Tribe innovators with technology-driven business ideas.
- Funding amount
- ₹30L (equity)
- Funding type
- Equity
- Provider
- IIT Mandi Catalyst (Academic)
- Application deadline
- Closed (12 Feb 2026)
- Eligible stage
- Any stage
- Location
- Open to startups registered in India
Overview
The IFCI Scheme for Scheduled Tribe Innovators, run by IIT Mandi Catalyst, is a equity-based funding program targeted at innovators from the Scheduled Tribe community. It aims to support early-stage startups that are working on innovative, technology-driven ideas with strong commercial potential. By providing equity capital rather than debt, the program allows founders to focus on product development and market validation without the pressure of immediate repayments. Selected startups also receive incubation support, mentorship, networking opportunities, and fundraising assistance to help them transform their ideas into sustainable, scalable businesses. The scheme is designed for young innovators, students, and early entrepreneurs from the Scheduled Tribe community, enabling them to create social and economic impact through their ventures.
Highlights
- Equity funding of up to ₹30 lakh for Scheduled Tribe innovators.
- Equity-based support with no immediate repayment pressure.
- Incubation support, mentorship, networking, and fundraising assistance.
- Open to startups at ideation, prototype, or pre-revenue stage.
- Lead founder must be from Scheduled Tribe with minimum 51% shareholding.
- Startup must be registered as a Private Limited company.
Who can apply
The startup should be at the ideation, prototype, or pre-revenue stage. It must be registered as a Private Limited company. The lead founder must belong to the Scheduled Tribe category and hold a minimum of 51% shareholding. Startups may be supported through CSR initiatives or incubated at recognized Technology Business Incubators. Students or youth with innovative, commercially viable, and technology-driven ideas are eligible to apply.
IFCI Scheme for Scheduled Tribe Innovators 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 IFCI Scheme for Scheduled Tribe Innovators closed on 12 Feb 2026. Many programmes run repeat cohorts, so it is worth checking the official site for the next round.
What the funding covers
The program provides equity funding of up to ₹30 lakh to selected startups. Additionally, recipients get incubation support, mentorship, networking opportunities, and assistance in fundraising. The equity-based structure helps founders avoid repayment pressure, enabling them to focus on product development and market validation.
About the provider
IFCI Scheme for Scheduled Tribe Innovators is offered by IIT Mandi Catalyst, an academic institution. It is delivered directly by IIT Mandi Catalyst as a equity. 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
First, applicants must complete and submit the online application form by the specified deadline. Then, submitted applications are reviewed for eligibility, innovation potential, and commercial viability. Shortlisted startups may be invited for further evaluation, discussions, or presentations. Final selection is based on the overall assessment by the program partners and experts. Selected startups are onboarded for funding and incubation support.
Documents you’ll need
Before you apply to IFCI Scheme for Scheduled Tribe Innovators, 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
IFCI Scheme for Scheduled Tribe Innovators is best suited for startups in India seeking an equity investment of ₹30L. If that describes your startup, review the eligibility criteria above before applying.
Frequently asked questions
What is the funding amount offered?
The program offers equity funding of up to ₹30 lakh.
What is the application deadline?
The application deadline is 12th February 2026.
Who is eligible to apply?
Startups at ideation, prototype, or pre-revenue stage are eligible. The lead founder must belong to the Scheduled Tribe category and hold at least 51% shareholding. The startup must be registered as a Private Limited company. Students or youth with innovative, technology-driven, and commercially viable ideas can apply.
Does the program take equity?
Yes, it is equity-based funding, so the program takes a stake in the startup in exchange for the investment.
Is DPIIT or MSME registration required?
The eligibility summary does not mention DPIIT or MSME registration as a requirement.
What documents are needed to apply?
The exact document list is not specified, but you will likely need to provide details about your startup, founder's identity (Scheduled Tribe certificate), proof of company registration, and a business plan.
How do I apply?
You need to fill and submit the online application form available at the provided link within the specified deadline.
Can startups from any state apply?
The eligibility does not restrict by state, so startups from all Indian states can apply.
What support is provided besides funding?
Selected startups receive incubation support, mentorship, networking opportunities, and assistance in fundraising.
What is the selection process?
Applications are reviewed for eligibility, innovation, and commercial viability. Shortlisted ones may be invited for further evaluation or presentations. Final selection is based on assessment by program partners and experts.
Who offers IFCI Scheme for Scheduled Tribe Innovators?
IFCI Scheme for Scheduled Tribe Innovators is offered by IIT Mandi Catalyst, an academic institution. It is provided as an investment.
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Alternatives to IFCI Scheme for Scheduled Tribe Innovators
Not sure IFCI Scheme for Scheduled Tribe Innovators is the right fit, or already applied? These are other equity open to Indian startups that founders shortlist alongside it.
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