Sustainovation Challenge 2.0 at AIC RAISE
The Sustainovation Challenge 2.0 by AIC RAISE offers grant funding and incubation for climate and social innovation startups in India.
- Funding amount
- ₹5L (grant)
- Funding type
- Grant
- Provider
- AIC RAISE (Academic)
- Application deadline
- Closed (15 Feb 2026)
- Eligible stage
- Any stage
- Location
- Open to startups registered in India
Overview
The Sustainovation Challenge 2.0 is a prominent national initiative focused on fostering innovation in climate and social impact sectors. It is spearheaded by the AIC RAISE Business Incubator, operating in collaboration with Startup India and the Department for Promotion of Industry and Internal Trade (DPIIT). This program is a key component of the broader Bharat Startup Grand Challenge, aiming to identify and support groundbreaking solutions that address critical environmental and societal issues.
This challenge is designed to empower startups developing solutions in areas such as climate technology, clean energy, circular economy principles, efficient waste management, advanced water technology, and broader environmental sustainability and social impact initiatives. It provides a structured platform for these ventures to grow and scale their innovative ideas.
Highlights
- National-level program by AIC RAISE, Startup India, and DPIIT.
- Focuses on climate tech, clean energy, circular economy, and social impact.
- Offers grant funding of up to ₹5,00,000.
- Includes a 14-week structured incubation program.
- Preference for startups from Tier II, Tier III cities, and rural regions.
- Application deadline is February 15, 2026.
Who can apply
To be considered for the Sustainovation Challenge 2.0, applicants must meet specific criteria:
- Startups must be formally DPIIT-recognized and registered within India.
- The founding team must include at least one Indian founder.
- Applicants should have a developed product, evidenced by an MVP (Minimum Viable Product) or a solution that is already market-ready.
- Solutions proposed must align with key thematic areas, including climate tech, clean energy, circular economy, waste management, water technology, environmental sustainability, or social impact.
- While open to all eligible startups, preference is given to ventures originating from Tier II, Tier III cities, and rural regions across India.
Sustainovation Challenge 2.0 at AIC RAISE 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
The most recent application window for Sustainovation Challenge 2.0 at AIC RAISE closed on 15 Feb 2026. Many programmes run repeat cohorts, so it is worth checking the official site for the next round.
What the funding covers
The Sustainovation Challenge 2.0 provides substantial support to selected startups, primarily through non-dilutive funding and comprehensive incubation.
- Recipients are eligible for seed funding support of up to ₹5,00,000 in the form of a grant.
- Shortlisted startups will be onboarded into a 14-week structured incubation program, designed to accelerate their growth and development.
About the provider
Sustainovation Challenge 2.0 at AIC RAISE is offered by AIC RAISE, an academic institution. It is delivered directly by AIC RAISE 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 selection process for the Sustainovation Challenge 2.0 involves several distinct stages:
- Interested startups must first submit their online application through the designated official registration link.
- All submitted applications undergo a thorough screening and evaluation by the program partners to assess their potential and adherence to eligibility criteria.
- Startups that are successfully shortlisted from this evaluation phase are then onboarded into a comprehensive 14-week structured incubation program.
- Following the incubation period, a final selection is made to identify the startups that will receive seed funding support of up to ₹5,00,000.
Documents you’ll need
Before you apply to Sustainovation Challenge 2.0 at AIC RAISE, 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
Sustainovation Challenge 2.0 at AIC RAISE is best suited for startups in India seeking non-dilutive funding of ₹5L. If that describes your startup, review the eligibility criteria above before applying.
Frequently asked questions
What is the Sustainovation Challenge 2.0?
The Sustainovation Challenge 2.0 is a national program launched by AIC RAISE Business Incubator in collaboration with Startup India and DPIIT, as part of the Bharat Startup Grand Challenge. It aims to support climate and social innovation startups.
What type of funding does the Sustainovation Challenge 2.0 offer?
This program offers grant funding. Selected startups can receive seed funding support of up to ₹5,00,000, which is non-dilutive.
What is the application deadline for this challenge?
The deadline for submitting applications for the Sustainovation Challenge 2.0 is February 15, 2026.
Which types of startups are eligible to apply?
Eligible startups must be DPIIT-recognized and registered in India, with at least one Indian founder. They should also possess an MVP or a market-ready solution.
What are the key sectors or areas of focus for this program?
The program specifically targets solutions in climate tech, clean energy, circular economy, waste management, water technology, environmental sustainability, and social impact.
Is DPIIT recognition a mandatory requirement for applicants?
Yes, it is a mandatory requirement. Startups must be formally DPIIT-recognized to be eligible for the Sustainovation Challenge 2.0.
Does AIC RAISE take equity from participating startups?
No, as the program provides grant funding, AIC RAISE does not take an equity stake in the startups selected for the Sustainovation Challenge 2.0.
What does the incubation program entail?
Shortlisted startups will be onboarded into a 14-week structured incubation program designed to provide comprehensive support and accelerate their development before the final selection for seed funding.
Is there any preference for startups from specific regions?
Yes, while startups from all regions are welcome, preference is given to applicants from Tier II, Tier III cities, and rural regions of India.
How much funding does Sustainovation Challenge 2.0 at AIC RAISE provide?
Sustainovation Challenge 2.0 at AIC RAISE provides ₹5L (up to) as grant. Always confirm the exact amount and any conditions on the official site, as figures can change between cohorts.
Who offers Sustainovation Challenge 2.0 at AIC RAISE?
Sustainovation Challenge 2.0 at AIC RAISE is offered by AIC RAISE, an academic institution. It is provided as non-dilutive funding.
How do I apply for Sustainovation Challenge 2.0 at AIC RAISE?
Apply directly through the official application link on this page. Review the eligibility criteria and prepare your startup documents before you begin.
Alternatives to Sustainovation Challenge 2.0 at AIC RAISE
Not sure Sustainovation Challenge 2.0 at AIC RAISE is the right fit, or already applied? These are other grants open to Indian startups that founders shortlist alongside it.
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