ISB I-WIN Accelerator for Women-Led Startups (Cohort 5) — Frequently Asked Questions
Answers to the questions founders most often ask about ISB I-WIN Accelerator for Women-Led Startups (Cohort 5) — who qualifies, the funding amount, required documents and how the application works.
Frequently asked questions
What is the ISB I-WIN Accelerator for Women-Led Startups?
The ISB I-WIN (Women in Innovation) Accelerator is a four-month virtual program by ISB I-Venture designed to help women founders scale their revenue-generating startups. It offers tailored support, mentorship, expert sessions, and investor connections.
Who is eligible to apply for Cohort 5 of the I-WIN Accelerator?
The program is open to women founders or co-founders holding at least a 25% equity stake and an active decision-making role. Startups must have a live product with early traction, be at the pre-seed to pre-Series A stage, and be incorporated as a Private Limited Company or LLP for at least one year. It is sector-agnostic and open to founders across India.
Does the ISB I-WIN Accelerator provide direct funding or grants?
No, the ISB I-WIN Accelerator does not provide direct grant funding or investment. Its value lies in the structured accelerator program, expert mentorship, and the curated Demo Day that facilitates connections with potential investors.
What is the duration and format of the I-WIN Accelerator program?
The program runs for four months and is conducted entirely virtually, making it accessible to founders across India. It is designed to be flexible and adaptive to a founder's schedule.
Are there any fees associated with participating in the I-WIN Accelerator?
Yes, there is a program fee of ₹25,000 plus GST. Additionally, a 2% success fee is applicable on any investments secured by the startup through the I-WIN network.
Does ISB I-WIN take equity from the participating startups?
No, ISB I-WIN does not take any equity stake in the startups that participate in its accelerator program. The program's financial model includes a program fee and a success fee on investments sourced via its network.
What kind of support can founders expect during the program?
Founders receive personalised support starting with a structured gap analysis. This is followed by 1:1 mentorship from industry veterans, expert-led live sessions on growth strategy, unit economics, and more, brand and performance marketing labs, market access pathways, and comprehensive investment readiness preparation including pitch clinics and a Demo Day.
What is the application deadline for the ISB I-WIN Accelerator Cohort 5?
The application deadline for Cohort 5 of the ISB I-WIN Accelerator is 2026-07-31.
How can I apply for the ISB I-WIN Accelerator?
You can apply for the ISB I-WIN Accelerator Cohort 5 by submitting an online application through the official ISB I-Venture portal at https://i-venture.org/iwin.
Is DPIIT recognition required for ISB I-WIN Accelerator for Women-Led Startups (Cohort 5)?
No. DPIIT (Startup India) recognition is not listed as a mandatory requirement for ISB I-WIN Accelerator for Women-Led Startups (Cohort 5), though having it can strengthen your application and unlock other benefits.
Who offers ISB I-WIN Accelerator for Women-Led Startups (Cohort 5)?
ISB I-WIN Accelerator for Women-Led Startups (Cohort 5) is offered by ISB I-Venture, an academic institution. It is provided as non-dilutive funding.
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