10 Best Startup Accelerators and Incubators in India

10 Best Startup Accelerators and Incubators in India

Whether you’re a first-time founder with a bold idea or a startup ready to scale, accelerators and incubators can be your launchpad. These programs offer funding, mentorship, networks, and resources to navigate the wild ride of entrepreneurship. But with so many options, which ones are worth your time?

This blog dives into the top 10 startup accelerators and incubators in India to help you find the perfect fit for your startup.

What are Startup Accelerators and Incubators

Before we jump into the list, let’s break it down.

Accelerators are intensive, short-term programs (3-6 months) that fast-track startups with a minimum viable product (MVP) through funding, mentorship, and investor connections, often in exchange for equity.

Incubators nurture early-stage ideas over a longer period (6 months to 2 years), offering resources like office space, guidance, and sometimes funding, without always requiring an MVP. Both help startups overcome hurdles like capital, strategy, and market access.

Top 10 Startup Accelerators and Incubators in India

If you’re still exploring the perfect startup idea, check out our guide on Best Startup Ideas in India to spark inspiration before diving into these programs.

Here’s our curated list of the top 10 accelerators and incubators in India, chosen for their track record, industry focus, and impact. Each entry highlights what makes them unique, who they’re best for, and how they can propel your startup forward.

1. T-Hub (Hyderabad)

Website – https://t-hub.co/

T-Hub is a powerhouse in India’s startup ecosystem, backed by the Telangana government. It focuses on tech-driven ventures in AI, healthtech, fintech, and more. Its 6-month accelerator program offers funding (up to ₹10 lakhs), mentorship, and access to global networks like Microsoft and AWS. T-Hub has supported over 2,000 startups, including Hala Mobility, a leader in electric vehicle solutions.

  • Who It’s For: Tech startups with an MVP ready to scale.
  • Why It Stands Out: Strong government backing and global partnerships make it a gateway to international markets.
  • Example: Hala Mobility scaled its EV platform through T-Hub’s investor connects.
  • Tip: Attend T-Hub’s networking events to forge partnerships with corporates.

2. CIIE.CO (IIM Ahmedabad) or IIMA Ventures

Website – https://iimaventures.com/

Formerly, Centre for Innovation Incubation and Entrepreneurship (CIIE) and now IIMA ventures at IIM Ahmedabad is a gold standard for early-stage startups. It supports ventures in IT, cleantech, healthcare, and edtech with seed funding (up to ₹10 crores), mentorship from IIM faculty, and access to a powerful alumni network. CIIE caters to both ideation-stage founders and those ready to scale, emphasizing sustainable business models.

  • Who It’s For: Entrepreneurs with innovative ideas, especially in social impact or tech.
  • Why It Stands Out: Its academic rigor and alumni connections provide unmatched strategic guidance.
  • Data Point: CIIE has incubated over 300 startups, with portfolio companies raising over ₹1,000 crores.
  • Tip: Use CIIE’s workshops to refine your business plan and tap into alumni for funding.

3. NASSCOM 10,000 Startups (Noida)

Website – https://10000startups.com/

Launched in 2013, NASSCOM’s 10,000 Startups initiative is a cornerstone of India’s tech ecosystem, supporting over 11,000 ventures. Its programs include virtual incubation, global immersion, and accelerators for AI, IoT, and healthtech. The Tech.WE initiative empowers women entrepreneurs, making it inclusive and impactful.

  • Who It’s For: Tech startups at any stage, especially in tier-2/3 cities.
  • Why It Stands Out: Its nationwide reach and government partnerships ensure accessibility.
  • Example: UrbanClap (now Urban Company) gained early traction through NASSCOM’s network.
  • Tip: Apply for their global immersion program to pitch to international investors.

4. Venture Catalysts (Mumbai)

Website – https://venturecatalysts.in/

Android – https://play.google.com/store/apps/details?id=com.vcats.app

Founded in 2016, Venture Catalysts is India’s most active seed investment platform, backing over 110 startups. Its accelerator program offers funding (₹1-5 crores), mentorship, and a vast angel investor network. Focused on fintech, SaaS, and consumer tech, it’s a go-to for startups seeking quick funding.

  • Who It’s For: Startups with an MVP eyeing seed funding and investor connections.
  • Why It Stands Out: Its hands-on approach accelerates funding rounds.
  • Anecdote: A founder I met at a Mumbai startup event credited Venture Catalysts for securing a ₹3 crore seed round in months.
  • Tip: Craft a compelling pitch deck with traction metrics to impress their investors.

5. 100 Unicorns (Mumbai)

Website – https://100unicorns.in/

Since 2020, 100 Unicorns (formerly 9 Unicorns) has backed over 150 startups with investments from $100K to $1M. Its accelerator program supports sectors like edtech, healthtech, D2C, and fintech, with a “D2U” (Day-to-Unicorn) model focused on rapid scaling. Portfolio companies like Shiprocket have achieved unicorn status.

  • Who It’s For: Early-stage startups with high-growth potential.
  • Why It Stands Out: Its aggressive investment strategy fuels rapid growth.
  • Data Point: 100 Unicorns’ portfolio has a cumulative valuation exceeding $3 billion.
  • Tip: Highlight scalability and market fit in your application to align with their unicorn-building vision.

6. IAN (Delhi)

Website – https://iangroup.vc/

The Indian Angel Network (IAN) Incubator blends angel investing with incubation. It offers seed funding (up to ₹2 crores), mentorship from seasoned entrepreneurs, and access to 500+ angels. Supporting healthtech, agritech, and SaaS, IAN ensures startups are pitch-ready for funding.

  • Who It’s For: Startups with an MVP seeking angel investment.
  • Why It Stands Out: Its investor-driven mentorship sharpens fundraising skills.
  • Example: HealthifyMe scaled rapidly with IAN’s funding and guidance.
  • Tip: Leverage IAN’s pitch events to connect with angels for follow-on funding.

7. NSRCEL

Website – https://nsrcel.org/

NSRCEL, IIM Bangalore’s incubation arm, nurtures early-stage startups in social impact, deep tech, and sustainability. Its 12-18 month program offers mentorship, academic resources, and funding opportunities. The Women Startup Program is a standout for female founders.

  • Who It’s For: Idea-stage startups in social impact or deep tech.
  • Why It Stands Out: Its long-term support and academic rigor build sustainable businesses.
  • Data Point: NSRCEL has incubated over 800 startups, with 70% surviving post-incubation.
  • Tip: Attend NSRCEL’s bootcamps to refine your business model.

8. Axilor Ventures (Bangalore)

Website – https://www.axilor.com/

Founded by Infosys co-founders, Axilor Ventures runs a 100-day accelerator for fintech, healthtech, and consumer internet startups. It offers up to $100K in funding, mentorship, and corporate partnerships. Portfolio companies like UrbanPiper and EnKash highlight its impact.

  • Who It’s For: Startups with early traction seeking product-market fit.
  • Why It Stands Out: Founder-led mentorship provides strategic insights.
  • Anecdote: A friend’s SaaS startup doubled revenue after Axilor’s pricing strategy pivot.
  • Tip: Showcase customer feedback in your application to stand out.

9. SINE (IIT Bombay)

Website – https://sineiitb.org/

The Society for Innovation and Entrepreneurship (SINE) at IIT Bombay is a pioneer in tech incubation, supporting AI, robotics, biotech, and cleantech startups. Its program offers office space, prototyping facilities, and funding (up to ₹25 lakhs). Alumni like IdeaForge lead in drone technology.

  • Who It’s For: Deep tech startups focused on R&D.
  • Why It Stands Out: IIT’s labs and faculty expertise give a technical edge.
  • Example: IdeaForge built its flagship drone using SINE’s prototyping facilities.
  • Tip: Use SINE’s resources to validate your product before seeking funding.

10. Kerala Startup Mission

Website – https://startupmission.kerala.gov.in/

The Kerala Startup Mission (KSUM) is a state-backed incubator fostering technology-driven entrepreneurship across Kerala. Its physical incubation program, spanning pre-incubation (3-6 months), incubation (6-12 months), and acceleration (3-6 months), provides startups with workspace, mentorship, seed funding, and access to advanced facilities like the Super Fab Lab in Kochi. KSUM supports diverse sectors, including AI, healthcare, fintech, and hardware, with initiatives like Startup Dreams for SC entrepreneurs and LEAP Coworks for flexible workspaces.

  • Who It’s For: Early-stage startups, student entrepreneurs, and innovators across Kerala, particularly those in tech and social impact sectors.
  • Why It Stands Out: KSUM’s extensive network of 40+ incubators, offering 10 lakh square feet of space, and unique facilities like India’s first Super Fab Lab make it a hub for hardware and tech innovation. Its focus on inclusivity, such as programs for women and SC/ST entrepreneurs, sets it apart.
  • Data Point: KSUM supports over 4,100 startups across 14 districts, with investments exceeding ₹2,000 crore.
  • Tip: Leverage KSUM’s Innovation Grant (up to ₹5 lakh) and Fab Lab access to prototype and scale your product efficiently.

How to Pick the Right Program for Your Startup

Choosing the right startup program—incubator, accelerator, or funding—can boost your growth. With options like T-Hub, KSUM, or CIIE.CO, you need to match the program to your startup’s stage, goals, and industry. Here’s a simple guide based on top Indian programs from your post.

1. Know Your Stage

  • Ideation: Pre-incubation programs like KSUM (3-6 months) or SINE (IIT Bombay) offer mentorship and tools to build your MVP.
  • Early-Stage: Incubators like T-Hub or NSRCEL (IIM Bangalore) give workspace, mentors, and seed funds for traction.
  • Growth: Accelerators like Axilor Ventures or Venture Catalysts (Mumbai) help scale with investor links.

Tip: Pick a program that fits your current stage.

Read – How To Start a Startup in India: Guide for Beginners

2. Set Your Goals

  • Funding: 9Unicorns or IAN (Delhi) connect you to investors. KSUM offers non-equity grants up to ₹5 lakh.
  • Mentorship: CIIE.CO (IIM Ahmedabad) has 350+ mentors for deep tech. NSRCEL offers online courses.
  • Resources: T-Hub’s 350,000 sq.ft. space or SINE’s tech labs support product-building.
  • Market: NASSCOM 10,000 Startups links you to corporates like Microsoft.

Tip: Focus on your top need (e.g., cash, advice, or networks).

3. Match Industry & Location

  • Industry: T-Hub suits agritech or healthtech; Axilor focuses on AI/healthcare; CIIE.CO supports deep tech.
  • Location: KSUM helps Kerala startups; NASSCOM and T-Hub work for tier-2/3 cities; 9Unicorns fits metro hubs.

Tip: Choose a program matching your sector and city.

4. Check Program Details

  • Duration: KSUM’s 6-12 months suits early startups; Axilor’s 3-6 months is for scaling.
  • Format: T-Hub blends physical and mentor support; NASSCOM offers flexible co-working.
  • Equity: 9Unicorns may take equity; KSUM and SINE often don’t.

Data Point: T-Hub backed 2,000+ startups with ₹2,000 crore raised; CIIE.CO’s 59 graduates created 3,000 jobs.

5. Look at Success Stories

Check alumni like T-Hub’s Zenoti, SINE’s Webaroo, or CIIE.CO’s Teacheasy. Their funding and growth show program impact.

Tip: Ping alumni on LinkedIn or X for real insights.

6. Apply Smart

  • Eligibility: SINE needs IIT Bombay ties; KSUM prioritizes Kerala. IAN is open to all tech startups.
  • Commitment: Programs like T-Hub or NSRCEL need time for workshops.

Tip: Apply to 1-2 programs that fit best to save effort.

Final Tip: Shortlist 3 programs, compare their focus, and apply where your startup fits.

Once you’ve chosen a program, amplify your startup’s visibility by sharing your startup journey to inspire and connect with other founders.

FAQ: Startup Incubators in India

What is a startup incubator?

It’s a program offering workspace, mentorship, and resources to early-stage startups. Examples: KSUM, T-Hub, SINE.

How do I choose an accelerator?

Match it to your stage (growth), goals (funding, networks), and industry. Axilor or Venture Catalysts are good for scaling tech startups.

What’s the difference between an incubator and accelerator?

Incubators (e.g., NSRCEL) support early startups with long-term help (6-12 months). Accelerators (e.g., IAN) focus on fast growth (3-6 months) with investor access.

Do startup programs take equity?

Some do (100 Unicorns, Venture Catalysts, 5-10%); others like KSUM or SINE offer non-equity grants.

How can I apply for these programs?

Check eligibility on their websites (e.g., t-hub.co, ksum.in, ciie.co). Tailor your application to their focus and submit online or reach their customer support.

Final Thoughts: Your Startup’s Next Step

India’s startup accelerators and incubators are more than just programs—they’re ecosystems that can transform your idea into a thriving business. Whether you need funding, mentorship, or a network to scale, these top 10 options offer tailored support. Research each program, align your pitch with their focus, and take the leap. Your entrepreneurial journey is about to get a turbo boost!