Genesis by IKP – Cohort 1
A 12-month venture-building program by IKP Knowledge Park offering up to INR 30 Lakhs in equity investment for deep science startups at TRL 2-3.
- Funding amount
- ₹30L (equity)
- Funding type
- Equity
- Provider
- IKP Knowledge Park (Incubator)
- Application deadline
- 31 Jul 2026
- Eligible stage
- Any stage
- Location
- Open to startups registered in India
Overview
Genesis by IKP is a 12-month funding and venture-building program hosted by IKP Knowledge Park, designed to help founders turn breakthrough deep science research into commercial ventures. The program focuses on startups at Technology Readiness Level (TRL) 2 (technology concept formulated) or TRL 3 (experimental proof of concept). It provides equity investment up to ₹30 lakhs, along with hands-on support from IKP's in-house experts in areas like IP strategy, regulatory guidance, and investor readiness. The goal is to bridge the gap between scientific discovery and market entry, creating robust, scalable businesses from lab-stage innovations.
Highlights
- Equity investment up to ₹30 Lakhs
- 12-month deep science venture-building program
- Focus on TRL 2-3 innovations
- Expert mentorship and IP strategy
- Regulatory and investor readiness support
- Access to IKP's technical infrastructure
Who can apply
This program is for Private Limited Companies incorporated in India, with at least 51% shareholding held by Indian citizens. Startups must be at TRL 2 or TRL 3 and have lab-dependent intellectual property. They should focus on deep science sectors such as biotherapeutics, healthtech, AI, or deeptech. LLPs and OPCs are not eligible.
Genesis by IKP – Cohort 1 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 Genesis by IKP – Cohort 1 are open and the current deadline is 31 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
Selected startups receive an equity investment of up to ₹30 lakhs. The 12-month program includes expert mentorship from seasoned entrepreneurs and domain specialists, support for IP strategy (prior art search, patent filing), regulatory pathway planning, investor and manufacturing readiness, grant strategy assistance, pitch deck refinement, access to IKP's ecosystem and technical infrastructure, and external fundraising support.
About the provider
Genesis by IKP – Cohort 1 is offered by IKP Knowledge Park, a startup incubator. It is delivered directly by IKP Knowledge Park 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
The selection process has multiple stages. First, applications submitted online via the IKP Athena Portal are internally reviewed for scientific novelty, TRL fit, IP potential, and team quality. Shortlisted startups then undergo an in-depth scientific evaluation covering IP and regulatory pathways, along with founder interviews. A final selection committee chooses 4-5 startups. Selected startups sign agreements, receive the first funding tranche, and begin the 12-month program, typically starting in September 2026.
Documents you’ll need
Before you apply to Genesis by IKP – Cohort 1, 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 by IKP – Cohort 1 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 Genesis by IKP?
Genesis by IKP is a 12-month venture-building program by IKP Knowledge Park that offers up to ₹30 lakhs in equity investment for deep science startups at TRL 2 or 3. It provides mentorship, IP support, regulatory guidance, and investor readiness training.
How much funding will I receive?
The program offers equity investment of up to ₹30 lakhs. The amount is not a grant or loan but an equity investment, typically disbursed in tranches based on milestone achievement.
What is the application deadline?
The deadline is July 31, 2026. Apply through the IKP Athena Portal before this date.
Who is eligible to apply?
Eligible applicants must be Private Limited Companies incorporated in India with at least 51% Indian shareholding, operating at TRL 2 or 3 with lab-dependent IP in deep science sectors. LLPs and OPCs are not eligible.
Do I need DPIIT or MSME registration?
The program does not specifically require DPIIT or MSME registration, but being a Private Limited Company with Indian majority shareholding is required.
Does the program take equity?
Yes, it is an equity investment. The program takes an equity stake in your startup, not a grant or loan.
What documents do I need to apply?
You need a 6-7 slide pitch deck covering innovation, team, market opportunity, and business plan. Additional documents may be required during evaluation.
How do I apply?
Submit an online application through the IKP Athena Portal. After submission, IKP reviews applications internally, shortlisted candidates undergo scientific evaluation and interviews, and final selections join the cohort.
What sectors are supported?
The program supports deep science sectors like biotherapeutics, healthtech, AI, and deeptech, but specific sectors are mentioned in the eligibility criteria.
How many startups are selected?
Approximately 4-5 startups are selected per cohort.
Who offers Genesis by IKP – Cohort 1?
Genesis by IKP – Cohort 1 is offered by IKP Knowledge Park, a startup incubator. It is provided as an investment.
More funding from IKP Knowledge Park
IKP Knowledge Park runs 2 other programs listed on startupfunds — compare them before you decide where to apply.
Alternatives to Genesis by IKP – Cohort 1
Not sure Genesis by IKP – Cohort 1 is the right fit, or already applied? These are other equity open to Indian startups that founders shortlist alongside it.
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