SheConnects Digital Accelerator India 2026 – Grants up to ₹4.2 Cr for NGOs
Grant funding and support for not-for-profits scaling women's digital inclusion solutions across India.
- Funding amount
- ₹85L – ₹4.2Cr (grant)
- Funding type
- Grant
- Provider
- Reliance Foundation (nonprofit)
- Application deadline
- 4 Sept 2026
- Eligible stage
- Any stage
- Location
- Open to startups registered in India
Overview
The SheConnects Digital Accelerator is a joint initiative by the Reliance Foundation and the Gates Foundation, with management by the GSMA Foundation. In India, the Reliance Foundation leads the grant funding component. The program aims to close the gender digital divide by scaling proven solutions that enable women to access and benefit from the internet.
It tackles barriers such as access, affordability, digital literacy, relevant content, online safety, and restrictive social norms. Selected projects will receive substantial grant funding and comprehensive support to expand digital access, enhance skills, and create economic opportunities for women across the country.
The program is designed for not-for-profit organizations with validated solutions ready to scale. Beyond funding, it fosters innovation, evidence-building, and South-to-South learning to strengthen inclusive digital ecosystems. Selected projects will contribute insights that drive further innovation and a more equitable digital landscape for women.
Highlights
- Grants from ₹85 lakh to ₹4.2 crore
- For not-for-profit organisations in India
- Focus on women's digital inclusion
- Project duration 15-18 months
- Includes bootcamps, MEL support, and visibility
- Backed by Reliance Foundation and Gates Foundation
Who can apply
This program is exclusively for not-for-profit organisations registered and operating in India. Your project must focus on digital adoption and use for women, and you must demonstrate the ability to deliver in target locations, possibly through local partnerships.
A clear commitment to gender equality and serving underserved groups is required. Solutions must be proven and validated – idea-stage concepts are not accepted. Projects should run for 15 to 18 months, and all applications must be submitted in English via the official portal.
SheConnects Digital Accelerator India 2026 – Grants up to ₹4.2 Cr for NGOs 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
Applications for SheConnects Digital Accelerator India 2026 – Grants up to ₹4.2 Cr for NGOs are open and the current deadline is 4 Sept 2026. Deadlines can change — always reconfirm on the official source before submitting.
What the funding covers
Selected organizations receive grant funding between ₹85 lakh and ₹4.2 crore – non-repayable capital to scale proven solutions. This is accompanied by:
- Bootcamps for skill development and strategic thinking
- Learning exchange opportunities for peer collaboration
- Monitoring, Evaluation & Learning (MEL) technical assistance
- Increased visibility through profiling in publications, events, and social media
About the provider
SheConnects Digital Accelerator India 2026 – Grants up to ₹4.2 Cr for NGOs is offered by Reliance Foundation. It is delivered directly by Reliance Foundation as a grant. You can verify current details and timelines on the provider's official website before applying.
How to apply
Applications are submitted on the official portal. Confirm the current deadline and document checklist there before you start.
Selection process
The application goes through multiple stages. First, submit a short online Pitch describing your organisation, solution, and alignment. Shortlisted applicants are then invited to submit a detailed Proposal. Proposals are assessed by a Fund Panel comprising experts from the organising foundations and partners. Successful applicants proceed to contracting and then project launch.
Documents you’ll need
Before you apply to SheConnects Digital Accelerator India 2026 – Grants up to ₹4.2 Cr for NGOs, 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.
Who this is best for
SheConnects Digital Accelerator India 2026 – Grants up to ₹4.2 Cr for NGOs is best suited for startups in India seeking non-dilutive funding of ₹85L – ₹4.2Cr. If that describes your startup, review the eligibility criteria above before applying.
Frequently asked questions
How much funding is available?
Grants range from ₹85 lakh to ₹4.2 crore, depending on project scope and assessment.
What is the application deadline?
The deadline for Round 2 is 4 September 2026.
Who can apply?
Only not-for-profit organisations registered and operating in India. For-profit startups are not eligible.
What kind of projects are funded?
Projects that enable women to access the internet for the first time or help existing users benefit more from digital services. Solutions must be proven and ready to scale – idea-stage concepts are not accepted.
Is DPIIT or MSME registration required?
No, DPIIT recognition or MSME registration are not required, as the program is for not-for-profits, not for-profit startups.
Does the program take equity?
No. The funding is a grant – it is non-repayable and non-dilutive, so no equity is taken.
What is the project duration?
Proposed projects must be between 15 and 18 months.
What support is provided besides money?
The program offers technical assistance, bootcamps, learning exchanges, MEL support, and visibility through profiling to potential partners.
How do I apply?
You apply through the official SheConnects Digital Accelerator portal. The application is in English and involves a pitch, a detailed proposal, and panel assessment.
Who offers SheConnects Digital Accelerator India 2026 – Grants up to ₹4.2 Cr for NGOs?
SheConnects Digital Accelerator India 2026 – Grants up to ₹4.2 Cr for NGOs is offered by Reliance Foundation. It is provided as non-dilutive funding.
Alternatives to SheConnects Digital Accelerator India 2026 – Grants up to ₹4.2 Cr for NGOs
Not sure SheConnects Digital Accelerator India 2026 – Grants up to ₹4.2 Cr for NGOs is the right fit, or already applied? These are other grants open to Indian startups that founders shortlist alongside it.
Questions from founders
Ask anything about eligibility, documents or the process — answered by the community.
No questions yet — be the first to ask.