FundingRs. 10 lakh to Rs. 30 lakh
Equity-free Idea Logistics & Mobility
ClosesJun 15, 2026
Closed Grant Equity-free
Startup Exploration Program 2026 - IIT Mandi Catalyst
3-month exploration program for prototype-stage innovators
Check your readinessShare a few details and an IncorpX advisor will walk you through fit, documents and timelines for this scheme. Free, no obligation.
- Founders at idea or product stage seeking exploration and pre-incubation support at IIT Mandi.
About this scheme
The Startup Exploration Program 2026 by IIT Mandi Catalyst is a structured three-month incubation initiative designed to help innovators transition from early-stage ideas and prototypes to validated, market-ready and growth-ready startups. Positioned as an exploration-focused program, it supports founders who are at the prototyping or product development stage and require structured mentoring, infrastructure access, and ecosystem integration to accelerate execution.
The program is built around guided experimentation, business validation, and structured capability building. Participating startups receive expert mentorship from experienced entrepreneurs and industry leaders who provide personalized guidance tailored to each venture's maturity and sector. A strong emphasis is placed on refining business models and establishing clear go-to-market strategies, ensuring that founders move beyond technical development toward commercial viability.
In addition to strategic business mentoring, the program offers legal and intellectual property support. Founders are guided on entity structuring, compliance considerations, and safeguarding innovation through appropriate IP mechanisms. This structured legal foundation is critical for startups preparing for future fundraising, partnerships, and commercialization.
Infrastructure access is a core pillar of the program. Selected startups gain access to co-working spaces, labs, and technical facilities that enable product iteration and development in a supportive environment. The program also integrates networking opportunities, connecting founders with potential clients, partners, investors, and alumni entrepreneurs within the broader startup ecosystem.
Who can apply
- Open to startups and innovators at prototyping or product development stage
- Suitable for founders looking to move from idea/prototype to market-ready solutions
Official application
Ready to apply? Get the official link
Applications are submitted directly with IIT Mandi Catalyst, in your own name. Share a few details and we will point you to the official application portal and help you prepare a complete submission.
Here is the official application link
Apply in your own name with IIT Mandi Catalyst. Want a second pair of eyes before you submit? An IncorpX advisor can help you prepare.
Open the official applicationFrequently asked questions
How much funding does Startup Exploration Program 2026 - IIT Mandi Catalyst provide?
Startup Exploration Program 2026 - IIT Mandi Catalyst provides up to Rs. 9 Cr. The exact amount sanctioned depends on the proposal and the evaluation by the program authority.
Is Startup Exploration Program 2026 - IIT Mandi Catalyst currently accepting applications?
Applications currently closed. Always confirm the current window with the program authority before preparing your application.
Does Startup Exploration Program 2026 - IIT Mandi Catalyst take equity?
No. This program is listed as equity-free, which means the funding does not dilute your shareholding. Review the official terms for any debt or convertible components.
Important disclaimer
IncorpX is a private platform operated by a private company. It is not a government department, agency or official portal, and it is not affiliated with, endorsed by, or acting on behalf of any government body or of any organisation, incubator, accelerator, investor or partner listed in this directory. All program names, logos and trademarks are the property of their respective owners and are used for identification only.
This directory is compiled from publicly available official sources and is provided for general information only. It does not constitute legal, financial, tax or professional advice. Funding amounts, eligibility criteria, required documents, deadlines and availability are determined by each program authority and change with every cycle, so the details shown here may be incomplete or out of date. Always confirm the current terms on the official program source before you apply or take any decision.
IncorpX charges no fee for the information in this directory and does not collect, process, lodge or submit any application on your behalf. Applications are made by you, in your own name, directly with the respective program authority. IncorpX provides assistance only for application preparation and for related registrations such as company incorporation, DPIIT recognition, MSME (Udyam) and GST. Eligibility, approval, disbursement and selection rest solely with the respective program authority, and IncorpX makes no representation or guarantee as to any outcome.
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