Empowering Startups through GENESIS

Get access to Grant up to INR 10 Lakhs

About the Program

Gen-Next Support for Innovative Startups (GENESIS) by MeitY is a transformative initiative to strengthen the startup ecosystem in Tier-II and Tier-III cities. It consolidates existing startup schemes, offers targeted funding for early-stage and deep-tech ventures, and supports incubators through capacity-building efforts. GENESIS aims to foster innovation, nurture talent, and create a sustainable and inclusive ecosystem for tech startups across emerging regions.

The GENESIS-EIR program helps students and entrepreneurs validate their startup ideas, offering support and resources to turn them into viable ventures. It fosters innovation and drives entrepreneurship in Tier-II and Tier-III cities. As a program partner, AIC ISB provides unparalleled support, mentorship, and resources, offering the perfect platform to turn your innovative ideas into reality.

Funding Support: Up to INR 10 lakhs*

For early-stage startups in Tier-II and Tier-III cities to accelerate their growth.

Last date to apply: 10th February 2025

Focus Areas

Electronics & IT

Emerging Technologies

(AI, IoT, blockchain, etc.)

Digital Solutions

Addressing societal challenges (e.g., health, education, agriculture, sustainability).

Eligibility Criteria

  1. Entrepreneur Eligibility
  • Nationality: Must be an Indian citizen.
  • Age: Must be at least 18 years old at the time of application.
  • Commitment: Must be a first-generation entrepreneur and committed to full-time work on the startup during the EiR program.
  1. Startup/Idea Eligibility
  • Stage of the Startup: Must be in ideation, validation, or early stages.
  • Must not have received funding exceeding ₹10 lakh, including government grants.
  • Should have scalability potential and create impact, especially in Tier-II and Tier-III cities.
  • Legal Compliance: If incorporated, must be registered as a Private Limited Company or LLP under Indian laws.
  1. Funding and Financial Eligibility
  • No Prior Funding: Must not have received significant private or government funding for the same idea.
  • Grant Utilization: Must have a clear plan for using EiR support, such as prototype development or market validation. Priority given to startups from Tier-II and Tier-III cities.

Program Benefits

Elevating Journey

EiRs receive continuous handholding and incubation support to advance their entrepreneurial journey, including assistance in applying for additional funding programs, driving growth in Tier-II and Tier-III cities.

Prototyping

Access to AIC ISB’s Makerspace for product development, prototyping, testing, and expert guidance from partners, empowering entrepreneurs in emerging regions.

Mentorship and Guidance

Receive expert guidance from ISB’s successful startups, alumni, and mentor network, helping refine business models, strategies, and gain market insights.

Co-working Space

EiRs work in a collaborative, open environment with essential amenities.

Capacity Building

Tailored support and training programs designed to enhance EiRs' core skills, expand their capabilities, and help them overcome the unique challenges of emerging markets.

Networking Opportunities

EiRs gain access to AIC ISB’s networking events, connecting them with investors, industry experts, fellow entrepreneurs, and key stakeholders to foster valuable partnerships in Tier-II and Tier-III cities.

Process

FAQ

GENESIS by MeitY boosts the startup ecosystem in Tier-II and Tier-III cities by providing funding, mentorship, and resources to turn ideas into viable ventures.

  • Completely filled Application form given in link above.
  • In case of Scheduled Caste (SC) / Scheduled Tribe (ST), caste certificate from valid government department
  • No, final year students for both undergrad and postgrad courses are not eligible as the applicant committed to working full-time on the proposed startup idea during the EiR program duration. For PhD students, if they are getting fellowship from their institution, then they are not eligible. Please refer to the eligibility section to know more.

An amount of INR 10,00,000 can be provided as support to a GENESIS- EiR fellow in a timeframe of minimum 6 months.

No, the support is for full time working entrepreneurs only. Please refer to the eligibility section to know more.

  1. After receiving applications, AIC ISB, as the Program Execution Partner (PEP), will verify applicant eligibility.
  2. Eligible applicants will be evaluated by AIC ISB’s selection committee based on specific criteria to determine the final recipients of GENESIS-EiR support.

Applications are assessed based on the startup’s stage, scalability potential, impact, and alignment with the program’s objectives.

  • Individuals currently enrolled in other full-time incubation/entrepreneurship schemes or programs, unless permitted by both programs. 
  • Startups involved in unethical, illegal, or non-compliant business activities.

Absolutely, we maintain the confidentiality of all the applications we receive under different schemes. All third-party reviewers sign non-disclosure and no-conflict agreements before viewing the applications.

Yes, but only one will be finally provided GENESIS-EiR support, if selected.