Programme Overview

The Azim Premji Foundation has launched a Social Startups Programme aimed at supporting development‑sector professionals who wish to establish and lead their own grassroots civil‑society organisations serving underserved communities. The initiative is positioned as distinct from the Foundation’s regular grants programme, which funds existing registered organisations.

Cohort Size and Geographic Coverage

The inaugural cohort is planned to comprise approximately 100 participants. Selection will be drawn from four geographic zones: Odisha, the North‑East region of India, Eastern Uttar Pradesh, and Bengaluru Urban.

Areas of Work Supported

Participating entrepreneurs may focus on a range of sectors, including rural livelihoods, health, youth development, mental health, disability services, children’s welfare, the well‑being of Adivasi communities, and work in urban informal settlements such as creches, community sanitation projects, and welfare‑rights initiatives.

Eligibility Criteria

Applicants must satisfy all of the following conditions:

  • Be younger than 40 years of age.
  • Hold at least a graduate‑level degree.
  • Possess a minimum of three years of ground‑level experience in the development sector.
  • Intend to set up and lead a new civil‑society organisation.
  • Be willing to relocate to, and make a long‑term commitment to, the chosen geography.
  • Not already have a registered organisation.

Programme Structure and Support

The programme is divided into two phases:

1. Seeding Phase (Eight months) – Commencing on 1 April 2027, participants receive financial assistance to engage with communities, assess local needs, and develop organisational plans. They also obtain guidance on registration, governance, and statutory compliance. By the end of this phase, participants are expected to have registered their organisations.

2. Grant Phase (Two‑year seed grant) – After registration, participants may submit a grant proposal for evaluation. Those meeting the programme’s criteria can receive a two‑year seed grant to establish and strengthen their operations. Assessment for progression to this phase will occur in November–December 2027.

Application Process and Timeline

  • Application window: 1 November 2026 to 31 December 2026.
  • Selection steps: Eligibility screening, document review, statement of purpose, online interview, and in‑person panel discussion.
  • Seeding phase start: 1 April 2027.
  • Progression assessment: November–December 2027.

Leadership Quote

Rajib Ghosh, Head – Philanthropy at Azim Premji Foundation, stated: “We need more organisations working at the grassroots, especially in underserved areas. Many experienced professionals understand the challenges communities face and want to contribute more. This programme aims to help them take that step and build organisations of their own.”

Further Information

Interested candidates can find detailed eligibility criteria and application instructions at the Foundation’s website: azimpremjifoundation.org/who-we-are/how-we-are-organised/grants/social-startups-programme/.