SIDBI Cohort Program – WISE SNDTWU Incubation Centre
A funding and incubation program by SIDBI and WISE SNDTWU Incubation Centre supporting innovative women-led startups across India with up to ₹10 Lakhs, expert mentorship, and strong ecosystem connections to scale their ventures.
- Funding amount
- ₹10L (grant)
- Funding type
- Grant
- Provider
- WISE SNDTWU Incubation Centre (Academic)
- Application deadline
- Closes in 5d (20 Jul 2026)
- Eligible stage
- Any stage
- Location
- Open to startups registered in India
Overview
The SIDBI Cohort Program is a collaborative initiative between the Small Industries Development Bank of India (SIDBI) and the WISE SNDTWU Incubation Centre, hosted at SNDT Women's University. The incubation centre operates as a Section 8 Company dedicated to fostering innovation, entrepreneurship, and sustainable growth in the women-led startup ecosystem. This program targets high-potential women-led startups that show significant innovation, scalability, and robust business potential.
Women entrepreneurs in India often face unique barriers such as limited capital, mentorship, and networks. The program bridges these gaps by providing early-stage funding and comprehensive support tailored to women founders. It aims to inject crucial seed capital along with strategic guidance, operational support, and market linkages necessary for startups to thrive and create impact. By nurturing a vibrant ecosystem, the SIDBI Cohort Program contributes to economic empowerment and innovation-driven growth led by women.
Highlights
- Up to ₹10 Lakhs non-repayable grant funding
- Comprehensive incubation support including workspace and lab infrastructure
- Expert mentorship and business advisory from industry leaders
- Investor connect and networking opportunities for follow-on funding
- Exclusively for women-led startups with at least 30% women equity
- Open to all sectors and early stages (Idea to Early Revenue)
Who can apply
This program is open to women-led startups across India registered as Private Limited Companies. A woman founder or co-founder must hold at least 30% equity in the startup and be actively involved in day-to-day operations and strategic decisions. Eligible startups can be at the Idea, Prototype, MVP, or Early Revenue stages. The program is sector-agnostic, welcoming innovative and scalable business models from any industry.
SIDBI Cohort Program – WISE SNDTWU Incubation Centre 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 SIDBI Cohort Program – WISE SNDTWU Incubation Centre are open and the current deadline is Closes in 5d (20 Jul 2026). Applications are closing soon, so prepare your documents early. Deadlines can change — always reconfirm on the official source before submitting.
What the funding covers
The SIDBI Cohort Program offers non-repayable grant funding of up to ₹10 Lakhs to provide critical seed capital. Selected ventures receive comprehensive incubation support including dedicated workspace (if applicable), access to lab infrastructure, and a nurturing environment. Expert mentorship and business advisory are provided by seasoned entrepreneurs and industry leaders, covering product development, market strategy, and operational efficiency. The program also facilitates investor connections and networking opportunities for follow-on funding and collaborations. Additionally, startups benefit from market access support, capacity-building programs, and integration into the WISE SNDTWU Incubation Centre's vibrant entrepreneurial ecosystem.
About the provider
SIDBI Cohort Program – WISE SNDTWU Incubation Centre is offered by WISE SNDTWU Incubation Centre, an academic institution. It is delivered directly by WISE SNDTWU Incubation Centre 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
Applications undergo a thorough screening based on eligibility criteria including women-led status, equity holding, entity type, and startup stage. Beyond eligibility, applications are evaluated on innovativeness, scalability of the business model, founding team strength, and business potential. Shortlisted startups are invited to interact with a selection committee through presentations, interviews, and Q&A sessions to assess vision, execution capabilities, and alignment with program objectives. Final selections are made based on comprehensive assessment during these interactions.
Documents you’ll need
Before you apply to SIDBI Cohort Program – WISE SNDTWU Incubation Centre, 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
SIDBI Cohort Program – WISE SNDTWU Incubation Centre 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.
Frequently asked questions
What is the total funding amount and what type is it?
The program provides a non-repayable grant of up to ₹10 Lakhs. It is a grant, so no equity is taken and no repayment is required.
What is the application deadline?
All applications must be submitted by 20th July 2026. We recommend applying early to avoid last-minute issues.
Who is eligible to apply?
Women-led startups registered as Private Limited Companies in India are eligible. A woman founder or co-founder must hold at least 30% equity and be actively involved in daily operations and strategy. Startups can be at Idea, Prototype, MVP, or Early Revenue stage, and can be from any sector.
Is DPIIT or MSME registration required?
The program does not explicitly require DPIIT or MSME registration. However, ensure your startup is registered as a Private Limited Company to be eligible.
Does the program take equity or is it a grant?
The program offers a non-repayable grant. No equity is taken from your startup. You retain full ownership.
What documents are typically needed to apply?
While not explicitly listed, standard documents include a pitch deck, business plan, financial projections, and incorporation documents. These are typical for grant applications and should be prepared.
How do I apply?
You need to complete the online application form available at the program's Google Forms link. Ensure all fields are filled accurately with details about your startup, product, team, and business model. Submit by the deadline.
What is the selection process?
Applications are screened for eligibility, innovation, scalability, and team strength. Shortlisted startups are then invited to interact with a selection committee through presentations and interviews. Final selections are made based on these interactions.
Can a startup apply if it is already incorporated but not yet generating revenue?
Yes, startups at Idea, Prototype, MVP, or Early Revenue stages are all eligible. Revenue generation is not a requirement.
What support does the incubation include besides funding?
Selected startups receive mentorship, business advisory, workspace and lab access, investor connections, market access support, capacity-building workshops, and integration into the WISE SNDTWU ecosystem.
Who offers SIDBI Cohort Program – WISE SNDTWU Incubation Centre?
SIDBI Cohort Program – WISE SNDTWU Incubation Centre is offered by WISE SNDTWU Incubation Centre, an academic institution. It is provided as non-dilutive funding.
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