Universal Newsline has compiled a list of Top 5 Startup Funding and Accelerator Opportunities in India
With India’s startup ecosystem evolving rapidly, multiple funding and accelerator programs are opening doors for early and growth-stage startups. From government-backed initiatives to corporate-led accelerators, these opportunities provide capital, mentorship, and networking to help startups scale.
Here are the five most significant funding and accelerator programs currently accepting applications.
1. Startup Maha Rathi Challenge – ₹30 Crore Fund for Indian Startups
Deadline: March 7, 2025
The Startup Maha Rathi Challenge, part of Startup Mahakumbh 2025, is a flagship initiative by the Department for Promotion of Industry and Internal Trade (DPIIT) in collaboration with leading investors and industry bodies. The program offers funding, mentorship, and strategic guidance to startups across 11 key sectors.
Eligibility:
DPIIT-recognized startups in early or growth stages.
Sectors include AI, Fintech, HealthTech, Agritech, DeepTech, and more.
Key Benefits:
Total prize pool of ₹30 crore.
Guaranteed ₹1 lakh for shortlisted startups.
₹10 lakh for top two startups in each sector.
₹5 lakh for the next five startups per sector.
Mentorship from leading VCs, investors, and industry leaders.
Grand Finale: April 3-5, 2025, at Bharat Mandapam, New Delhi.
Apply Here - https://www.startupindia.gov.in/content/sih/en/ams-application/challenge.html?applicationId=67bdbb76e4b0c167e9f99da2
2. Futurepreneurs Initiative – ₹1 Crore Prize Pool for Student Innovators
Deadline: March 7, 2025
About: Part of Startup Mahakumbh, this initiative invites colleges to nominate student teams to develop AI-driven solutions for local challenges.
Rewards: Top 10 teams receive funding, mentorship, and a chance to pitch at Startup Mahakumbh 2025.
Apply here: Futurepreneurs Initiative - https://docs.google.com/forms/d/e/1FAIpQLSe0qQupFOLbidIknsevqw3Wcy29ubfOc09pti-W3MdpHXeZRQ/viewform?pli=1
3. PwC India Emerging Tech Startup Challenge
Applications Open: March 4, 2025
PwC India has launched an accelerator program aimed at late-stage startups in emerging technologies such as AI, blockchain, and spacetech.
Eligibility:
Startups working on AI, blockchain, data analytics, and space tech.
Key Benefits:
Mentorship from PwC’s global leaders.
Access to enterprise partnerships.
Exposure to corporate clients and investors.
More Details - https://www.pwc.in/emerging-tech-startup-challenge.html
4. Microsoft for Startups – AI Co-Innovation Lab
Applications Open: March 2025
Microsoft’s AI-focused accelerator is designed to support startups leveraging AI for real-world applications.
Eligibility:
Startups working in AI, machine learning, deep tech, and automation.
Key Benefits:
Free access to Microsoft Azure cloud credits.
Co-innovation partnerships with enterprises.
Mentorship from Microsoft AI and business experts.
More Details - https://www.microsoft.com/en-in/startups
5. Flipkart Leap Innovation Network
Applications Open: March 2025
Flipkart Leap aims to support startups in e-commerce, supply chain, AI, and sustainability by offering
strategic partnerships and business scaling opportunities.
Eligibility:
Early and growth-stage startups working on tech-driven retail and logistics solutions.
Key Benefits:
Funding and collaboration opportunities with Flipkart.
Business scaling support.
Mentorship from e-commerce and logistics experts.
More Details - https://www.flipkartleap.com/
With increasing investor interest and government support, these initiatives offer more than just capital. They provide critical mentorship, market access, and networking opportunities, making them vital for startups looking to scale and compete in a global market.
Startups should act fast and apply before deadlines to maximize their chances of securing funding and strategic support.