Call for Grant Applications -Bridging Narratives Grant Program
About Organisation
The India CDR Accelerator is an initiative designed to empower startups in India working on Carbon Dioxide Removal (CDR) solutions. Building upon a proven track record in Europe, the accelerator aims to bring deep local relevance and global best practices to Indian entrepreneurs tackling climate change through carbon removal. The program is committed to nurturing science-based, impactful, and scalable solutions that address the urgent need for atmospheric carbon reduction. Through a comprehensive support system, it connects founders to a global network of over 600 CDR experts, buyers, verifiers, policymakers, and technology specialists. The India CDR Accelerator envisions creating a thriving, collaborative ecosystem where Indian startups can innovate, grow, and gain access to domestic and international markets. By offering tailored coaching, strategic guidance, and access to funding, it enables startups to accelerate their journey from concept to commercialization. The program also emphasizes rigorous verification standards, policy engagement, and market readiness to ensure long-term impact. Ultimately, the India CDR Accelerator serves as a launchpad for mission-driven founders to transform cutting-edge climate science into viable business solutions that contribute to India’s leadership in global carbon removal efforts.
About the Grant
The India CDR Accelerator offers a unique 8-month, two-stage program—Foundations and Leap—designed to support and scale carbon removal startups. The program provides €15,000 in non-dilutive, recoverable grant funding at the Leap stage to help founders accelerate technology development, build market readiness, and enhance verification processes. The grant is aimed at startups with CDR as their core mission, ensuring they have the resources to refine their solutions, engage with stakeholders, and prepare for large-scale deployment. Participants benefit from personalized coaching, fundraising readiness training, and direct access to a network of global CDR buyers, verifiers, and policy experts. The program also focuses on enabling founders to navigate complex regulatory landscapes, adopt science-backed methodologies, and position themselves competitively in both domestic and international markets. In addition to funding, the accelerator offers unparalleled exposure to the global carbon removal community, facilitating potential partnerships and collaborations. This comprehensive package of financial, technical, and strategic support empowers Indian startups to contribute meaningfully to climate action, bridge innovation gaps, and establish themselves as leaders in the fast-evolving carbon removal sector.
Who can Apply?
The India CDR Accelerator is open to Indian startups that place Carbon Dioxide Removal (CDR) at the core of their mission. Applicants must demonstrate that their solutions are science-based, rooted in verifiable methodologies, and not dependent on unsubstantiated claims or hype. Eligible startups must be based in India and should either have an operational company or be actively in the process of building one. Founders must retain at least 70% equity ownership in their company to ensure strong founder-led vision and control. The program seeks motivated teams eager to make a tangible contribution to India’s CDR ecosystem and to engage actively in the community. Ideal candidates are those ready to commit to the 8-month journey—comprising the Foundations and Leap stages—while leveraging the resources, mentorship, and networking opportunities provided. Startups at various stages of development, from early prototypes to more mature solutions, are encouraged to apply as long as they meet the program’s scientific rigor and eligibility benchmarks. This opportunity is best suited for mission-driven entrepreneurs aiming to scale their technology, secure market access, and align with global climate action goals.
How to Apply?
Interested startups must prepare an application highlighting their science-based CDR solution, company details, founder equity share, and commitment to the 8-month program. Applications should demonstrate readiness to contribute actively to the CDR ecosystem, alongside a clear growth and market strategy. Submit the completed form before the deadline to be considered for both the Foundations and Leap stages.
Application Deadline
The India CDR Accelerator is accepting applications until August 20, 2025. Early submission is recommended to allow adequate time for review and to secure a spot in the competitive selection process.
Last Date to Apply
The final date to submit your application for the India CDR Accelerator is August 20, 2025. No applications will be considered after this date.
Grant Amount
Selected startups at the Leap stage will receive €15,000 in non-dilutive, recoverable grant funding, along with mentorship, market access, and strategic guidance to accelerate their carbon removal innovation journey.
Last Date To Apply
For more information, please visit the grant website here.
