PIEDS x 1811 Labs : Gen AI Accelerator

The Generative AI Accelerator is a three-month hybrid program launched by PIEDS (Pilani Innovation & Entrepreneurship Development Society) in collaboration with 1811 Labs. PIEDS is the entrepreneurial arm of BITS Pilani, one of India's premier engineering institutions with a strong academic and research ecosystem. The accelerator leverages this deep-tech background to support early-stage ventures building B2B or consumer-focused Generative AI solutions.

Selected startups receive seed funding of up to ₹10 Lakhs in exchange for a 2% incubation equity stake. This equity-based approach aligns the accelerator's incentives with the startup's growth. Beyond capital, the program offers tailored incubation guidance, bespoke mentorship from AI specialists and seasoned entrepreneurs, networking opportunities with investors and corporate partners, specialized training modules, and facilitated market access to help validate and scale products in real-world scenarios. The aim is to bridge cutting-edge research with practical startup innovation.

Applicants must be incorporated as a private limited company under the Companies Act, 2013, and have a minimum viable product (MVP) already built. Startups with pilot implementations are strongly preferred, as this demonstrates early traction and real-world validation. The program runs for three months in a hybrid format, combining virtual and in-person elements.

• Up to ₹10 Lakhs seed funding in exchange for 2% incubation equity.
• 3-month hybrid program (virtual + in-person) by PIEDS & 1811 Labs.
• Open to B2B and B2C generative AI startups at MVP stage.
• Bespoke mentorship from AI specialists and industry veterans.
• Networking with investors, corporate partners, and fellow founders.
• Facilitated market access and specialized training modules.

To apply for this accelerator, your startup must meet the following criteria:

• Be a private limited company incorporated under the Companies Act, 2013.
• Be at the MVP (minimum viable product) stage – you should have a core product built and initial user feedback.
• Having existing pilot implementations is strongly preferred, as it indicates real-world testing and early traction.
• Focus on B2B or consumer (B2C) applications of Generative AI.
• There are no specific founder residence, DPIIT, or MSME registration requirements mentioned.

PIEDS x 1811 Labs : Gen AI Accelerator is open to startups at any stage. It is open to startups registered anywhere in India.

The most recent application window for PIEDS x 1811 Labs : Gen AI Accelerator closed on 30 Apr 2026. Many programmes run repeat cohorts, so it is worth checking the official site for the next round.

• Seed funding of up to ₹10 Lakhs in exchange for a 2% incubation equity stake.
• Tailored incubation guidance to navigate startup growth challenges.
• Bespoke mentorship from industry veterans and AI specialists covering strategic, technical, and business aspects.
• Networking opportunities with potential investors, corporate partners, and a community of fellow founders.
• Specialized training modules to improve business acumen and technical skills relevant to generative AI.
• Facilitated market access initiatives to help validate products and scale operations.

PIEDS x 1811 Labs : Gen AI Accelerator is offered by PIEDS, an academic institution. It is delivered directly by PIEDS as a grant. You can verify current details and timelines on the provider's official website before applying.

The selection process consists of three stages:

1. Online Application: Submit a detailed application through the official portal, including information about your team, solution, stage (MVP and any pilots), business model, market opportunity, and traction.
2. Virtual Interviews: Shortlisted applicants are invited for virtual interviews with the PIEDS and 1811 Labs teams, along with domain experts. These interviews explore technology, team dynamics, strategic vision, and acceleration needs.
3. Final Pitch Round: Promising teams present their startup to a selection committee comprising investors, industry leaders, and mentors. Successful applicants then receive an offer to join the three-month hybrid program.

Before you apply to PIEDS x 1811 Labs : Gen AI Accelerator, 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.

PIEDS x 1811 Labs : Gen AI Accelerator is best suited for startups in India seeking non-dilutive funding of ₹10L. If that describes your startup, review the eligibility criteria above before applying.