AIC ISB
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ISB I-Venture Investment Readiness Accelerator (IRA) 2.0

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Quick answer

Sector-agnostic accelerator for MVP to growth startups raising Seed–Series A.

Funding amount
Varies by program
Funding type
Grant
Provider
AIC ISB (Academic)
Application deadline
Closed (31 Mar 2026)
Eligible stage
Any stage
Location
Open to startups registered in India

Overview

ISB I-Venture's Investment Readiness Accelerator (IRA) 2.0 is a virtual, cohort-based program designed to prepare early- to growth-stage startups for engagement with institutional investors, corporate venture capital firms, and strategic partners. Over approximately 100 days, the accelerator focuses on building investment readiness rather than providing direct capital. Startups receive workshops on financial modelling, market analysis, pitching, and legal aspects, plus one-on-one mentorship from entrepreneurs and investors. Mock pitch sessions and investor panel feedback help refine storytelling. Networking with potential investors, corporate partners, and peers enhances capital access. The program is sector-agnostic, welcoming fintech, healthtech, agritech, climatetech, deeptech, cybersecurity, GenAI, mobility, edtech, SaaS, and other tech-enabled domains. It is ideal for startups planning to raise Seed to Pre-Series A or Series A rounds within the next three to six months.

Highlights

  • Virtual accelerator over ~100 days focused on investment readiness.
  • One-on-one mentorship from experienced entrepreneurs and investors.
  • Mock pitch sessions with real-time investor panel feedback.
  • Networking with potential investors, corporate partners, and peers.
  • Sector-agnostic: fintech, healthtech, agritech, climatetech, deeptech, and more.

Who can apply

IRA 2.0 is open to early- to growth-stage startups that have developed or launched a Minimum Viable Product (MVP) and can demonstrate traction through revenue, pilots, users, or partnerships. Applicants must be actively fundraising, intending to raise Seed to Pre-Series A or Series A within the next three to six months. The startup should offer a scalable, innovation-driven product or tech-enabled service with a clear problem-solution fit and go-to-market strategy. The program is sector-agnostic, accepting fintech, healthtech, agritech, climatetech, deeptech, cybersecurity, GenAI, mobility, edtech, SaaS, and related domains. Startups must be a registered company (in India or globally). At least one founder must actively participate in all workshops, mentorship sessions, and investor interactions, and be willing to incorporate feedback.

ISB I-Venture Investment Readiness Accelerator (IRA) 2.0 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 ISB I-Venture Investment Readiness Accelerator (IRA) 2.0 closed on 31 Mar 2026. Many programmes run repeat cohorts, so it is worth checking the official site for the next round.

What the funding covers

This accelerator does not provide direct funding. Instead, it offers a structured virtual program over ~100 days that covers workshops on financial modelling, market analysis, pitching, and legal considerations. Participants receive one-on-one mentorship from experienced entrepreneurs and investors, mock pitch sessions with real-time feedback from investor panels, and networking opportunities with potential investors, corporate partners, and fellow entrepreneurs. The program aims to prepare startups to engage with institutional investors, corporate venture capital firms, and strategic partners.

About the provider

ISB I-Venture Investment Readiness Accelerator (IRA) 2.0 is offered by AIC ISB, an academic institution. It is delivered directly by AIC ISB as a grant. You can verify current details and timelines on the provider's official website before applying.

Documents you’ll need

Before you apply to ISB I-Venture Investment Readiness Accelerator (IRA) 2.0, 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.

Frequently asked questions

How much funding does IRA 2.0 provide?

IRA 2.0 does not provide direct funding. It is a non-dilutive accelerator program focused on preparing startups to raise capital from investors.

What is the application deadline for IRA 2.0?

The deadline is March 31, 2026.

Who can apply for the Investment Readiness Accelerator?

Early- to growth-stage startups with an MVP or launched product, demonstrable traction (revenue, pilots, users, or partnerships), and actively fundraising for Seed to Series A within the next 3–6 months. The program is sector-agnostic, open to registered companies (India or globally), and at least one founder must actively participate.

What sectors are supported?

The program is sector-agnostic and welcomes fintech, healthtech, agritech, climatetech, deeptech, cybersecurity, GenAI, mobility, edtech, SaaS, and other technology-enabled domains.

Do I need DPIIT or MSME registration to apply?

The program does not explicitly require DPIIT or MSME registration in the eligibility criteria, but startups must be a registered company.

Does the program take equity?

No, IRA 2.0 is a non-dilutive accelerator that does not take any equity in participating startups.

What documents are typically required for application?

The provider does not specify required documents, but applicants typically need a pitch deck, company registration details, and traction metrics.

How do I apply?

Applications are submitted online via the official ISB I-Venture website: https://i-venture.org/investment-readiness-accelerator.

Is the program conducted online or offline?

IRA 2.0 is a virtual accelerator program.

Can international startups apply?

Yes, eligibility includes registered companies globally, not only in India.

Who offers ISB I-Venture Investment Readiness Accelerator (IRA) 2.0?

ISB I-Venture Investment Readiness Accelerator (IRA) 2.0 is offered by AIC ISB, an academic institution. It is provided as non-dilutive funding.

More funding from AIC ISB

AIC ISB runs 3 other programs listed on startupfunds — compare them before you decide where to apply.

Alternatives to ISB I-Venture Investment Readiness Accelerator (IRA) 2.0

Not sure ISB I-Venture Investment Readiness Accelerator (IRA) 2.0 is the right fit, or already applied? These are other grants open to Indian startups that founders shortlist alongside it.

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