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For early-stage startups, finding the right support system can be a game-changer. Funding is essential, but accelerators provide more than that. They offer mentorship, access to networks, resources, and strategic guidance that help startups scale efficiently. India’s startup landscape has rapidly evolved, and as it continues to grow; several accelerators have risen to the occasion, offering programs tailored to different industries, business models, and stages of development.
500 Startups is a well-known global accelerator with a strong presence in India. It focuses on helping early-stage tech startups, especially those in sectors like SaaS, eCommerce, fintech, and consumer technology.
The program offers a structured approach to growth, with guidance on scaling, fundraising, and market-entry strategies. Over the years, 500 Startups has supported more than 2,500 startups globally, with many of its graduates going on to secure further investment and grow their businesses.
Backed by Times Internet, TLabs is one of India’s oldest and most successful accelerators. The program offers early-stage startups expert mentoring and funding, helping them grow from ideation to scaling.
TLabs has a rich legacy of supporting startups like Treebo Hotels and Innov8, focusing on sectors such as fintech, media, and mobile applications.
Cisco Launchpad is a program designed to help startups create innovative solutions in enterprise technology, cloud computing, and IoT.
Through its collaboration with Cisco’s engineering teams and access to a vast global ecosystem, startups in this accelerator gain valuable insights and resources to scale their businesses.
Indian Angel Network (IAN) is one of India’s most active angel investment networks.
IAN’s accelerator program combines funding and mentorship to help early-stage startups scale across various sectors like healthcare, technology, and education. The network provides access to more than 500 investors and successful entrepreneurs, along with global partnerships in Asia, Europe, and North America.
DevX, based in Gujarat, is a prominent startup accelerator that focuses on supporting early-stage startups with funding, business strategy, and networking opportunities.
What sets DevX apart is its blend of accelerator and coworking space, providing startups with the infrastructure and resources they need to grow.
International Centre for Entrepreneurship and Technology (ICreate) is a leading incubator in Gujarat that focuses on promoting innovation and entrepreneurship.
Prime Venture Partners supports startups at the seed stage with both funding and mentorship. Their accelerator focuses on sectors like fintech, SaaS, and digital health.
The Centre for Innovation Incubation and Entrepreneurship (CIIE) at IIM Ahmedabad supports startups with seed funding, mentoring, and access to a vibrant startup ecosystem.
Operated by the Indian School of Business (ISB), DLabs supports startups in sectors like AI, blockchain, and health tech. The program offers structured mentorship and access to industry experts.
GSF Accelerator is known for nurturing some of India’s top startups, offering intensive mentoring and early-stage funding. Its global network is one of its biggest strengths.
You’ve got a list of the best of the best. Now, let us tell you why you need them.
Joining a startup accelerator provides:
For early-stage startups, these accelerators provide the right mix of resources and guidance to succeed in a competitive landscape.
Startup accelerators often have rigorous application processes to identify high-potential ventures. While specifics vary by program, most accelerators follow a similar selection framework:
For instance, 500 Startups prioritises startups with a scalable tech foundation, while Indian Angel Network emphasises a strong founding team and innovative business models. This careful selection ensures that only the most promising ventures receive mentorship and funding.
The Indian startup ecosystem has seen transformative changes in recent years. From fintech to health tech, accelerators are shifting their focus towards emerging domains such as:
For instance, GSF Accelerator’s global connections provide startups with the opportunity to enter international markets, while DevX emphasises community-driven learning, fostering collaboration among participating startups.
Startup accelerators are pivotal in shaping India’s entrepreneurial landscape, which has seen exponential growth. Whether you’re launching a tech-driven solution or scaling an existing venture, these accelerators offer the tools and resources to turn your vision into reality.
A startup accelerator is a structured program designed to help early-stage startups scale rapidly through mentorship, funding, and networking opportunities. Accelerators typically run for a fixed term (e.g., 3-6 months) and focus on growth, whereas incubators often provide long-term support and resources for startups in the ideation phase or early development stage.
The application process varies by accelerator but generally includes submitting an application form, pitching your business idea, and undergoing evaluation rounds. Programs like 500 Startups and TLabs prioritise factors such as innovation, scalability, and team strength. Be prepared to showcase a clear business plan and a strong product-market fit.
Yes, startup accelerators provide immense value to early-stage founders by offering funding, mentorship from industry experts, and access to investor networks. They can significantly boost a startup’s growth trajectory and provide credibility, which is crucial for securing further investments and partnerships.
Indian accelerators focus on a wide range of sectors, including technology (AI, IoT, SaaS), fintech, health tech, renewable energy, and consumer tech. For example, Cisco Launchpad supports enterprise tech startups, while ICreate specialises in renewable energy and AI-focused ventures.
Several successful startups have emerged from Indian accelerators. Cleartax and Instamojo benefited from the 500 Startups program, while Gradeup grew through TLabs. Rivigo, supported by CIIE at IIM Ahmedabad, revolutionized logistics tech in India, showcasing how accelerators can help startups scale effectively.
Eximius Capital Ventures Private Limited is the investment manager of the funds licensed by SEBI under AIF categories CAT I – Eximius Trust I (IN/AIF1/20-21/0855) and CAT II – Eximius Fund (IN/AIF2/24-25/1566).
Eximius Capital Ventures Private Limited is the investment manager of the funds licensed by SEBI under AIF categories CAT I – Eximius Trust I (IN/AIF1/20-21/0855) and CAT II – Eximius Fund (IN/AIF2/24-25/1566).
