Liftoff
Tailored guidance to help startups develop winning strategies and scale efficiently | Zero-cost & zero-equity program
20
years of entrepreneurship experience
250+
incubators partnered
4K+
startups supported in last 24 months
250+
startups raised external funding
20
years of
entrepreneurship
experience
250+
incubators
partnered
4K+
startups supported
in last 24 months
250+
startups raised external
funding
Eligibility Criteria
Early stage/prototype stage/MVP stage startups with a fully-committed team and at least a six-month runway.​
Our advisors will help customize the journey of each startup based on the stage they are in.
Key Offerings
Self-Paced
- Self-guided modules
- Self-assessed gap analysis
- Expert masterclasses
- Group mentoring by expert mentors
- Concept overviews
- Playbook roundtables
- AI Tutors
- Helpdesk
Via Incubator
- Selected cohorts
- Gap identification
- Journey mapping
- Group / 1:1 mentoring
- Pitching bootcamps
- Investor connects
- Helpdesk
- AI tutors
What to Expect
Tailored learning
Expert guidance
Expert 1:1
Flexible learning path
Interactive AI-powered learning
Progress in closing gaps
Curated digital library
Hustle Stories: Celebrating Startup Excellence
Explore inspiring journeys from 30 exceptional startups in our new coffee table book, ‘Hustle Stories,’ featuring success stories from the Liftoff program.
Success Stories
A glimpse into some of the lives our Foundation has impacted.
FAQ
Why should I join the Program?
Our program is designed to help early-stage startups refine their Pitch, business model, become investor ready and secure funding. Through a structured manner, we provide mentorship and targeted training to create a compelling investment pitch deck. By identifying strengths and weaknesses through a gap analysis, we guide startups in developing a robust business narrative.
Are there any eligibility criteria?
The entity must be registered in India (Under DPIIT) and have at least one full-time founder actively involved in managing the business and possess sufficient funds to cover operational expenses for the next six months.
Is startup registration mandatory for this program?
Yes, only registered startups are eligible for the program.
Is there any selection process after submitting application?
Yes, after submitting your application, there is a selection process. The applications will be evaluated based on factors such as problem definition, solution fit, unique value proposition, scalability, business strategy, market size, readiness to scale, action plan, investment readiness, team strength, and alignment with the program’s goals. A shortlist of startups will be selected for further consideration based on this evaluation.
How do we get to know about the selection?
Post evaluation, our team will send out an email to the selected applicants. Further, timely information about the joining the cohort will be shared. Due to large volumes of applications that we receive, selection might take more time in some cases.
What is the duration of this program?
4-12 weeks
Is there a Program Fee?
Wadhwani Foundation does not charge any fees nor take any equity or commission for this program.
What is the mode of delivery for this program?
The program will be conducted Online.
Do we get funding from Wadhwani Foundation after program completion?
Wadhwani Foundation does not directly provide funding to startups. Instead, we facilitate fundraising by connecting you with a network of over 35 investment partners. This gives you opportunities to pitch your startup directly to potential investors, increasing your chances of securing funding after completing the program.
Are we eligible for demo day post program completion?
Yes, you are eligible for demo day after completing the program. However, our investment team will evaluate your readiness to pitch by conducting a mock pitching session and reviewing your final pitch deck. Based on these assessments, you will be invited to participate in demo day.
Do we get the recordings of the sessions?
There are no recordings available, you can connect with the program manager or consultant for any inputs.
Can I interact with mentors during the live session?
What if I have doubts about certain modules?
Will I be able to connect with mentors after the cohort?
Can we raise money for real from the investors we pitch to?
Yes, subject to mutual agreement by both the parties, investor & startup.