About Organisation
The Foundation for Innovation and Social Entrepreneurship (FISE), better known as Social Alpha, is a leading ecosystem enabler that nurtures and supports innovative, science- and technology-based solutions addressing social, economic, and environmental challenges in India. Established with the vision of creating large-scale, sustainable impact, Social Alpha collaborates with entrepreneurs, researchers, governments, investors, and civil society to accelerate the adoption of breakthrough innovations. Over the years, it has built an extensive network of partners and stakeholders, helping innovators bridge the gap between lab-scale research and market-ready solutions.
Through its sector-focused programs, Social Alpha has supported a wide range of initiatives in healthcare, agriculture, livelihoods, climate action, and sustainable urban development. The organisation provides not only funding support but also comprehensive mentoring, incubation, acceleration, and ecosystem linkages that enable startups to scale their impact effectively. In partnership with global institutions such as the University of Toronto India Foundation, Social Alpha continues to drive programs that align with India’s sustainable development goals. With its mission-driven approach, Social Alpha empowers innovators to pilot, validate, and commercialize their solutions while building partnerships with industry, government, and urban local bodies to drive long-term systemic change.
About the Grant
The Innovations in Sustainable Urban Transition Program (India), also referred to as Techtonic, is an eight-month accelerator designed to identify, nurture, and scale innovations that promote sustainable urban living. Led by Social Alpha in collaboration with the University of Toronto India Foundation, the program supports Indian startups offering impactful solutions to urban challenges such as resource efficiency, waste management, clean energy, mobility, housing, and climate resilience.
Selected startups will receive grant funding of up to INR 35 lakh for pilot deployments, alongside tailored mentorship, commercialization planning, and ecosystem linkages. Additionally, promising ventures may be considered for seed funding of up to INR 1 crore, subject to due diligence, although investment is not guaranteed.
The program provides participants with opportunities for pilot testing in partnership with Urban Local Bodies (ULBs), civil society organizations, and industry stakeholders. Startups also gain access to Social Alpha’s vast ecosystem, advisory services, and portfolio management support, as well as mentorship from the University of Toronto India Foundation. By fostering scalable urban innovations, the program aims to strengthen India’s transition toward sustainable, inclusive, and resilient cities, empowering entrepreneurs to create long-lasting solutions with real-world impact.
Who can Apply?
The Innovations in Sustainable Urban Transition Program invites applications from Indian-registered startups and innovators with a strong focus on sustainability and urban transformation. Eligible applicants must meet the following criteria:
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Ownership: Startups should have at least 51% Indian ownership.
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Registration: Must hold valid DIPP (Department for Promotion of Industry and Internal Trade) recognition.
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Stage of Innovation: Solutions must be at least Pilot Ready (Technology Readiness Level TRL 6+) or Market Ready (TRL 7+).
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Focus Areas: Innovations should address urban sustainability challenges, including but not limited to: climate-resilient infrastructure, clean energy, sustainable mobility, affordable housing, waste and water management, circular economy, or related urban solutions.
This program is ideal for entrepreneurs aiming to validate their solutions in real-world conditions and scale their innovations with structured support. Applicants should demonstrate strong technical expertise, a commitment to sustainability, and readiness to collaborate with government and industry partners.
Shortlisted startups will be matched with pilot opportunities across India, based on the needs of deployment partners and urban local bodies. Applicants are expected to actively engage with Social Alpha’s team, portfolio managers, and advisors throughout the program to maximize impact.
How to Apply?
Interested startups must submit their applications through Social Alpha’s online portal before the deadline. Applicants should provide details about their startup, ownership structure, technology readiness, and proposed solution for urban sustainability. Supporting documents, including DIPP registration, must be uploaded. Shortlisted startups will undergo evaluation before final selection. The program requires active participation in workshops, mentoring sessions, and pilot engagements coordinated by Social Alpha and its partners.
Application Deadline
The application deadline for the Innovations in Sustainable Urban Transition Program is 20 September 2025, with all submissions to be completed before 11:59 PM IST on the specified closing date.
Last Date To Apply
