ImpactNest 2.0 Accelerator Program

The ImpactNest 2.0 Accelerator Program is a key initiative focused on social impact, jointly managed by the IIM Lucknow Enterprise Incubation Centre (IIML EIC) and BHARAT IMPACT. It receives valuable support from the Jubilant Bhartia Foundation. This program is specifically designed to empower startups that are developing scalable solutions to address significant societal and environmental issues.

The accelerator aims to cultivate impact-driven startups by offering structured acceleration, co-incubation facilities, and extensive interaction with industry leaders and ecosystem partners. Participants benefit from institutional knowledge, opportunities for corporate collaborations, access to advanced infrastructure, and pathways to secure further funding.

ImpactNest 2.0 prioritizes innovation, the ability to scale, and the creation of lasting value. It assists startups in refining their business strategies, enhancing their market entry approaches, and preparing for future investment rounds, all while ensuring their social impact objectives remain central.

• Grant funding available up to ₹2.5 Lakh.
• Application deadline is February 8, 2026.
• Led by IIM Lucknow EIC and BHARAT IMPACT, supported by Jubilant Bhartia Foundation.
• Focuses on social impact startups addressing societal and environmental challenges.
• Open to Indian startups at prototype, MVP, or early revenue stages.
• Covers sectors like AgriTech, Sustainability, Climate, MedTech, DeepTech, EdTech, and Social Impact.

The ImpactNest 2.0 program seeks impact-driven startups dedicated to creating scalable solutions that deliver clear social or environmental benefits.

Eligible applicants should be at the prototype, Minimum Viable Product (MVP), or early revenue stage. A strong commitment to innovation with a focus on impact is essential.

The program welcomes Indian startups from various sectors, including but not limited to:

• AgriTech
• Sustainability
• Climate
• MedTech
• DeepTech
• EdTech
• Social Impact

Applicants must be prepared for active participation in mentorship, acceleration activities, and collaborative efforts within the ecosystem for the entire duration of the cohort.

ImpactNest 2.0 Accelerator Program is open to startups at any stage. It is open to startups registered anywhere in India.

The most recent application window for ImpactNest 2.0 Accelerator Program closed on 8 Feb 2026. Many programmes run repeat cohorts, so it is worth checking the official site for the next round.

Selected startups in the ImpactNest 2.0 Accelerator Program are eligible to receive grant funding of up to ₹2.5 Lakh.

Beyond the direct financial support, the program provides:

• Access to institutional expertise and guidance
• Opportunities for corporate partnerships
• Use of advanced infrastructure
• Pathways to further funding opportunities

ImpactNest 2.0 Accelerator Program is offered by IIM Lucknow Enterprise Incubation Centre, an academic institution. It is delivered directly by IIM Lucknow Enterprise Incubation Centre as a grant. You can verify current details and timelines on the provider's official website before applying.

The selection process for the ImpactNest 2.0 Accelerator Program involves several key steps:

1. Application Submission: Interested startups are required to complete and submit their application via the official online application form.
2. Initial Review: Program partners thoroughly review all submitted applications. The assessment criteria include the startup's potential for impact, its innovative approach, scalability of the solution, and the capabilities of the founding team.
3. Further Evaluation: Startups that are shortlisted during the initial review may be invited to participate in additional evaluation stages. This could involve further interactions, interviews, or presentations.
4. Final Selection: The ultimate decision for cohort inclusion is made collaboratively by IIML EIC, BHARAT IMPACT, and the Jubilant Bhartia Foundation.
5. Onboarding: Successfully selected startups are then officially onboarded into the ImpactNest 2.0 cohort, where they begin to receive acceleration and co-incubation support.

Before you apply to ImpactNest 2.0 Accelerator Program, 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.

ImpactNest 2.0 Accelerator Program is best suited for startups in India seeking non-dilutive funding of ₹2.5L. If that describes your startup, review the eligibility criteria above before applying.