LiftOff Acceleration Program – IAN – WADHWANI
Offered By - Indian Angel Network, Wadhwani Foundation
About the Program
The LiftOff Acceleration Program is designed for early-stage startups that already have a validated MVP, initial traction, and are preparing to raise seed funding. It specifically targets founders who are past the idea stage and now need structured support to become investor-ready.
This is a 14-week virtual acceleration program that focuses on helping startups strengthen their business fundamentals while preparing them for real funding conversations. The program combines structured execution (weekly sprints), mentorship, and investor exposure to help startups refine their strategy, improve scalability, and build a compelling investment case.
Startups go through a step-by-step journey covering:
- Business vision and roadmap development
- Product and value proposition refinement
- Business model validation and financial planning
- Customer acquisition strategy
- Growth and operational scaling
- Team building and hiring plans
- Final funding readiness including valuation and pitch
The program is built around practical execution rather than theory, with continuous interventions like sprint reviews, pitch practice, and direct interaction with investors and mentors.
A key highlight is the final pitch opportunity to the Indian Angel Network (IAN), giving startups direct exposure to early-stage investors.
From a founder’s perspective, this program is most relevant if you already have traction but lack clarity on fundraising strategy. It’s particularly useful when you’re preparing for your first serious investor conversations – especially if your biggest gap is positioning, financial storytelling, or pitch readiness.
Offerings / Benefits:
- Interaction with Indian Angel Network (IAN) team
- Weekly sprint-based execution support
- Pitch practice sessions
- CXO mentor clinics
- Access to consultants and service providers
- Final pitch opportunity to investors (IAN)
- Startup baselining and goal-setting workshops
- Masterclasses, case studies, and fireside chats
- Access to global mentor network
- Business model evaluation and financial planning tools
- Mock pitching sessions and 1:1 mentorship support
Key Offerings
Corporate Partnerships
Demo Day
Go-To-market & Business Strategy
Mentorship
Networking
Workshops
Who Can Apply / Eligibility
- Early-stage startup
- Registered entity
- Customer-validated idea
- Validated MVP
- Demonstrable market opportunity (sizeable TAM)
- Sustainable business model
- Early traction (revenue, users, or customers)
- Preference for startups that have previously received grants
Best suited for startups transitioning from product validation to fundraising stage.
Selection Process
- Application submission through the official platform
- Initial screening based on eligibility and concept strength
- Evaluation based on innovation, scalability, and impact
- Shortlisting of selected applicants
- Final selection by the organizing body
The exact selection process may vary depending on program guidelines.
How to Apply
- Visit the official application page provided below
- Fill out the application form with startup details
- Submit required business and traction information
- Await further communication from the program team
Source & Verification
All information is compiled from publicly available sources. Refer to the links below for most accurate & updated details. Disclaimer
- Source 1: wadhwanifoundation.org
This information is provided for general awareness and does not constitute an endorsement by StartupGrantsHub.com. Exercise due diligence before submitting any personal or sensitive information.
Frequently Asked Questions
- Early-stage startup
- Registered entity
- Customer-validated idea
- Validated MVP
- Demonstrable market opportunity (sizeable TAM)
- Sustainable business model
- Early traction (revenue, users, or customers)
- Preference for startups that have previously received grants
Best suited for startups transitioning from product validation to fundraising stage.