PIEDS Acceleration Opportunity

About this scheme

The PIEDS Acceleration Opportunity is an initiative by the Pilani Innovation & Entrepreneurship Development Society (PIEDS), which operates as a core component within BITS Pilani. As a premier innovation and entrepreneurship platform, BITS Pilani actively cultivates a dynamic environment for groundbreaking ventures. This program specifically targets high-potential, tech-enabled startups that have demonstrated initial traction and are poised for significant scaling. It provides a structured pathway for growth, merging academic excellence with practical entrepreneurial support. PIEDS leverages BITS Pilani's rich legacy of fostering innovation and its extensive alumni network, which has a strong track record of producing successful entrepreneurs and contributing to technological advancements, creating an ideal ecosystem for emerging startups.

Eligible startups can secure funding support totaling up to Rs. 10 Lakhs. This financial injection is provided to facilitate the acceleration of the ventures' development cycles and to support their strategic market expansion. The program aims to address critical funding gaps that early-stage tech companies often face, enabling them to invest in necessary resources and operational enhancements such as product development, talent acquisition, or market validation. This capital is intended to help startups achieve significant milestones and prepare for subsequent larger funding rounds.

In addition to direct funding, participants benefit from extensive non-monetary assistance crucial for sustained growth. This includes unparalleled access to a startup ecosystem and invaluable networking opportunities. Through PIEDS and BITS Pilani's vast network, startups can connect with mentors, industry leaders, and potential collaborators. This backing is designed to leverage the institution's intellectual capital and established industry ties, offering more than just capital but also strategic guidance, mentorship, market access, and potential access to BITS Pilani's research facilities and technical expertise. The program embodies a commitment to nurturing innovation and translating technological ideas into successful commercial realities.

Who can apply

• Startups must possess a minimum viable product (MVP) at the time of application, indicating readiness for acceleration. This ensures applicants have a tangible, early-stage product or service with some initial user engagement or market validation, ready for scaling rather than ideation.
• The venture should be tech-enabled, focusing on innovative solutions driven by technology, ensuring alignment with the program's focus on cutting-edge advancements across various sectors.
• Applicants are required to be registered as Private Limited companies, adhering to formal corporate structures. This ensures legal compliance and a solid foundation for future growth and investment.
• Teams must include at least one co-founder who is an alumnus or current student of BITS Pilani. This affiliation leverages the strong BITSian network and ensures a deep connection to the institution's entrepreneurial ecosystem.

Eligible entity types: Private Limited

Benefits & funding

• 10 Lakhs in funding support to facilitate development and market expansion.
• Non-monetary assistance includes access to a startup ecosystem, networking opportunities, strategic guidance, mentorship, market access, and potential access to BITS Pilani's research facilities and technical expertise.

Frequently asked questions