Kotak BizLabs Accelerator Programme- 2026
Offered By - IIM Calcutta, Kotak Mahindra Bank
About the Program
Kotak BizLabs Accelerator 2026 is designed for early-revenue-stage Indian startups that have already achieved market traction and are building solutions with measurable social and/or environmental impact. The program specifically targets ventures that have validated their products or services and are now looking to strengthen business fundamentals, scale operations, expand customers, and prepare for investment readiness.
Launched as a CSR initiative of Kotak Mahindra Bank in collaboration with IIM Calcutta Innovation Park (IIMCIP), the accelerator aims to support 20 startups through a structured acceleration journey focused on sustainable growth and long-term scalability.
Selected startups receive access to grant funding, mentorship, business model refinement, go-to-market support, customer development assistance, investor readiness preparation, impact measurement guidance, and strategic partnership opportunities. The program is open to startups across India, with specific outreach efforts in East and North-East India.
This accelerator fits startups that have moved beyond idea validation and are now facing growth-stage challenges such as revenue expansion, operational scaling, fundraising preparation, and market access. The combination of non-dilutive grant funding and hands-on business support makes it particularly relevant for founders seeking growth without immediate equity dilution.
From a founder’s perspective, this program is most relevant if your startup already generates revenue and can demonstrate tangible impact outcomes. Startups that have proven demand but need structured support to scale operations, strengthen unit economics, and improve fundraising readiness are likely to derive the most value from this accelerator.
Key Offerings
Who Can Apply / Eligibility
- Early-revenue-stage startup with proven revenue traction during the last 12 months
- Must operate in one or more identified focus sectors
- Must possess valid DPIIT registration
- Must demonstrate potential for business model strengthening, scaling operations, customer expansion, and revenue growth
- Must demonstrate social and/or environmental impact through innovative and commercially viable solutions
- Open to startups registered in India
Best suited for: Revenue-generating Indian impact startups looking to scale sustainably while retaining equity.
Selection Process
- Application Review – Screening based on eligibility, problem-solution fit, business viability, innovation, impact potential, and scalability.
- Pitching Round – Shortlisted startups present their business models and impact potential before the selection committee.
- Committee Evaluation – Assessment by representatives from Kotak Mahindra Bank and IIM Calcutta Innovation Park on:
- Problem-Solution Fit
- Business Viability
- Innovation
- Impact Potential
- Scalability
How to Apply
- Prepare the startup application and required business information.
- Submit the application through the official online application portal.
- Eligible applications undergo screening and selection review.
- Shortlisted startups participate in pitching and committee evaluation rounds.
- Selected startups complete onboarding and due diligence processes.
Source & Verification
All information is compiled from publicly available sources. Refer to the links below for most accurate & updated details. Disclaimer
- Source 1: kotakbizlabs.accubate.app
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-revenue-stage startup with proven revenue traction during the last 12 months
- Must operate in one or more identified focus sectors
- Must possess valid DPIIT registration
- Must demonstrate potential for business model strengthening, scaling operations, customer expansion, and revenue growth
- Must demonstrate social and/or environmental impact through innovative and commercially viable solutions
- Open to startups registered in India
Best suited for: Revenue-generating Indian impact startups looking to scale sustainably while retaining equity.