Kotak BizLabs Accelerator Programme - Velocity (CSR)

Kotak BizLabs Accelerator Programme - Velocity is a flagship CSR initiative of Kotak Mahindra Bank, run in collaboration with premier incubators such as NSRCEL at IIM Bangalore. The programme is designed for early-revenue-stage ventures that have already launched a minimum viable product (MVP) and are market-ready with an existing customer base. It focuses on startups that can create lasting social or environmental impact through innovation. Selected ventures receive grant funding of up to ₹30 Lakhs, along with a structured acceleration experience that includes virtual and in-person learning sessions, thematic workshops, and hands-on boot camps. Participants gain mentorship from industry leaders and access to the NSRCEL Startup Kit, which offers exclusive discounts and credits from partners like AWS, RazorpayX, Stripe, and Zoho. The programme culminates in a Demo Day where founders pitch to investors for follow-on funding. The goal is to help founders build scalable processes, strengthen their teams, and achieve meaningful business milestones.

• Grant support of up to ₹30 Lakhs (non-dilutive funding).
• Programme delivered in collaboration with NSRCEL (IIM Bangalore).
• Open to revenue-generating, post-MVP startups with an existing customer base.
• Broad sector focus including AgriTech, ClimaTech, FinTech, EdTech, Healthcare, and more.
• Access to Demo Day for pitching to investors for follow-on funding.
• NSRCEL Startup Kit with discounts from AWS, RazorpayX, Stripe, Zoho, and others.

To apply for Kotak BizLabs, your startup must be a registered firm—presumably DPIIT-registered, as per general programme criteria. The venture should be revenue-generating, post-MVP, and market-ready, with an existing customer base. The programme broadly accepts startups from the following sectors: AgriTech, ClimaTech, FinTech, InclusiveTech, Sustainability, EdTech, Healthcare, Deep Tech for Impact, Sustainable Manufacturing, Waste Management, Supply Chain and Logistics, and Indigenous Art & Craft. There is no specific restriction on state or entity type mentioned, but the programme is open to Indian startups that fit the eligibility criteria.

Kotak BizLabs Accelerator Programme - Velocity (CSR) is open to startups at any stage. It is open to startups registered anywhere in India.

The most recent application window for Kotak BizLabs Accelerator Programme - Velocity (CSR) closed on 7 Dec 2025. Many programmes run repeat cohorts, so it is worth checking the official site for the next round.

• Grant Support of up to ₹30 Lakhs for select high-potential startups that meet the criteria.
• Hands-on Learning through a tailored curriculum including Virtual Startup School, thematic workshops, and hands-on boot camps.
• Mentorship and Support from industry pioneers and partner incubators like NSRCEL.
• Access to Grants and a Demo Day to pitch products to investors for follow-on funding.
• NSRCEL Startup Kit providing exclusive discounts and credits from partners such as AWS, RazorpayX, Stripe, Zoho, and others.

Kotak BizLabs Accelerator Programme - Velocity (CSR) is offered by Kotak Mahindra Bank, a corporate programme. It is delivered directly by Kotak Mahindra Bank as a grant. You can verify current details and timelines on the provider's official website before applying.

1. Application Submission – Founders submit their application online through the programme portal.
2. Application Review – Initial screening of submitted applications.
3. Conversation with NSRCEL Team – An interview or discussion with the primary implementing partner (NSRCEL).
4. Panel Review – Pitching and evaluation by an expert panel.
5. Due Diligence – Verification of company documents, financial readiness, and eligibility compliance.
6. Onboarding into the Program – Final selection and commencement of the acceleration journey, leading to Demo Day and grant disbursement for selected ventures.

Before you apply to Kotak BizLabs Accelerator Programme - Velocity (CSR), 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.

Kotak BizLabs Accelerator Programme - Velocity (CSR) is best suited for startups in India seeking non-dilutive funding of ₹30L. If that describes your startup, review the eligibility criteria above before applying.