Women-Led & Social Impact Startups Innovation Challenge — Frequently Asked Questions

The Women-Led & Social Impact Startups Innovation Challenge offers a grant of up to ₹5,00,000 to selected innovators and startups. This is non-dilutive funding, meaning no equity is taken.

The final date to submit applications for the Women-Led & Social Impact Startups Innovation Challenge is January 31, 2026.

The challenge is open to Indian startups, MSMEs, and individual innovators who are focused on women-led enterprises or social impact solutions. Applicants must be incorporated or registered in India.

Yes, the challenge specifically seeks solutions in areas such as women-led innovation and entrepreneurship, livelihood and skill development, rural and community empowerment, and scalable, inclusive social impact models.

While DPIIT or Startup India recognition is preferred, it is not a mandatory requirement at the time of application. This allows a broader range of innovators to participate.

Startups at any stage, including those with just an idea, a prototype, an MVP, a pilot, or those in early commercialization, are encouraged to apply. Solutions must demonstrate innovation, scalability, and measurable social impact.

No, this program provides a grant, which means it offers non-dilutive funding and does not take any equity stake in your company.

Applications for the challenge can be submitted online through the Startup India portal.

Women-Led & Social Impact Startups Innovation Challenge is offered by Federation of All India Vyapar Mandal, a non-profit foundation. It is provided as non-dilutive funding.