Women’s Economic Empowerment — Frequently Asked Questions
Answers to the questions founders most often ask about Women’s Economic Empowerment — who qualifies, the funding amount, required documents and how the application works.
Frequently asked questions
What is the Women’s Economic Empowerment (WEE) program?
The WEE program is an AI and innovation initiative by IIMA Ventures, supported by the Gates Foundation, focused on technology-enabled solutions to enhance the incomes of low-income women across India.
What kind of financial support does the program offer?
The program provides financial assistance starting at ₹45,00,000. These funds are disbursed in tranches upon the achievement of specific, mutually agreed-upon milestones.
What types of solutions are eligible for this program?
The program seeks scalable, high-impact AI and technology-enabled solutions that positively impact the growth, predictability, and resilience of incomes for low-income women in India. This includes innovations for women in sectors like agriculture, micro-entrepreneurship, the gig economy, and the informal economy.
Is there a specific deadline to apply for the WEE program?
No, applications for the Women’s Economic Empowerment program are accepted on a rolling basis, meaning you can apply at any time as the program is always open.
What stages of startups are eligible?
The program is designed to support startups that are currently at either the product stage or the revenue stage of their development.
Is company registration required to apply?
While you do not need to be a formally registered firm to submit an initial application, selection for and receipt of support from the program are strictly contingent upon the entity being formally registered in India.
Does the program take equity from participating startups?
Yes, as an equity funding program, the Women’s Economic Empowerment initiative involves IIMA Ventures taking an equity stake in the selected startups in exchange for the funding and support provided.
What kind of non-financial support does the program offer?
Beyond funding, the program provides extensive non-monetary support including crucial market access, connections to an expert network, showcase opportunities, comprehensive fundraising assistance, and substantial cloud credits up to USD 250,000 from major providers.
How can I apply for the Women’s Economic Empowerment program?
You can apply for the program by visiting the official application portal at https://go.iimaventures.com/WebsiteForm.
How much funding does Women’s Economic Empowerment provide?
Women’s Economic Empowerment provides ₹45L (from) as equity. Always confirm the exact amount and any conditions on the official site, as figures can change between cohorts.
Is DPIIT recognition required for Women’s Economic Empowerment?
No. DPIIT (Startup India) recognition is not listed as a mandatory requirement for Women’s Economic Empowerment, though having it can strengthen your application and unlock other benefits.
Who is eligible to apply for Women’s Economic Empowerment?
Women’s Economic Empowerment is open to startups at the product and revenue stage working in ai saas enterprise, edtech social impact and agri food rural. It is open to startups registered anywhere in India. Applicants should be registered as private limited, llp and partnership.
Who offers Women’s Economic Empowerment?
Women’s Economic Empowerment is offered by IIMA Ventures, an academic institution. It is provided as an investment.