Deadline: 15-Feb-2026
VFund 2026 is a strategic grant and incubation initiative by VELS University designed to scale women-led startups in Tamil Nadu. The program provides a ₹2,00,000 seed fund along with structured incubation support through the Vels Innovation Council (VIC), focusing on financial assistance and capacity building for early-stage ventures.
The VFund 2026 program addresses the critical gap in early-stage startup funding for women. By combining financial capital with professional incubation, VELS University aims to transform innovative concepts into scalable, sustainable business models. This initiative strengthens the regional startup ecosystem in Tamil Nadu by providing women founders with the mentorship and resources necessary to overcome common barriers in the entrepreneurship journey.
Who is Eligible?
To ensure the program supports high-potential, women-led ventures, applicants must meet the following strict eligibility criteria:
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Gender Requirement: The startup must be women-led, featuring at least one woman co-founder.
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Ownership and Leadership: The venture must have a minimum of 51% women ownership or a woman serving in the role of Founder/CEO.
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Age Limit: Applicants must be under 45 years of age.
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Geographic Focus: The startup must be a registered entity located in Tamil Nadu, India.
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Inclusivity: Applications are open to VELS University students, alumni, faculty, and the general public.
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Venture Stage: The program targets early-stage startups with innovative and viable business ideas.
Key Benefits of VFund 2026
Recipients of the VFund 2026 award gain access to a comprehensive support package designed for rapid scaling:
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Seed Funding: A direct financial grant of ₹2,00,000 to support initial operations or product development.
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VIC Incubation: Access to the Vels Innovation Council (VIC) ecosystem, providing a collaborative workspace and specialized infrastructure.
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Mentorship and Tools: Guidance from industry experts and access to technical resources for capacity building.
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Structured Growth: A roadmap designed to help founders transition from the “idea stage” to a “successful business stage.
How the Program Works: Step-by-Step Process
The VFund 2026 selection and support cycle follows a clear, structured progression:
1. Application Submission
Candidates must submit their business proposals, highlighting the innovation, market viability, and growth potential of their startup.
2. Evaluation and Selection
The Vels Innovation Council (VIC) reviews applications based on the “innovative and viable” nature of the business model. Shortlisted candidates may undergo further screening or pitching rounds.
3. Grant Disbursement
Successful winners are awarded the ₹2,00,000 seed fund. Unlike traditional loans, this funding is designed to act as a catalyst for early-stage growth.
4. Incubation and Scaling
Winners enter the VIC incubation program. During this phase, founders receive hands-on mentorship and networking opportunities to refine their products and enter the market effectively.
Common Tips for a Successful Application
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Demonstrate Viability: Clearly explain how your business will generate revenue and sustain operations.
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Focus on Innovation: Highlight what makes your solution unique compared to existing market alternatives.
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Proof of Registration: Ensure your startup is already registered in Tamil Nadu before applying, as this is a non-negotiable requirement.
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Commitment to Growth: Show that you are ready to utilize the VIC resources to scale, rather than just seeking the financial grant.
FAQ: VFund 2026 Frequently Asked Questions
What is the total funding amount for VFund 2026?
Selected winners receive a seed fund grant of ₹2,00,000.
Do I need to be a student at VELS University to apply?
No. While VELS students, alumni, and faculty are encouraged to apply, the program is also open to the general public.
Where must the startup be registered?
The startup must be a registered entity within the state of Tamil Nadu.
What are the age requirements for applicants?
Applicants must be under the age of 45.
What does “Incubation Support” include?
Incubation at the Vels Innovation Council (VIC) includes mentorship, access to university resources, professional networking, and a collaborative environment for startup development.
Is there a specific ownership requirement?
Yes. The startup must have at least 51% women ownership or have a woman in a top leadership position as Founder or CEO.
Can a startup with a male co-founder apply?
Yes, as long as there is at least one woman co-founder and the leadership/ownership requirements (51% women ownership or a woman CEO) are met.
Conclusion: Driving Social and Economic Impact
VFund 2026 is more than a financial grant; it is a dedicated launchpad for the next generation of women leaders in Tamil Nadu. By providing the essential “Seed Fund + Incubation” formula, VELS University and the Vels Innovation Council (VIC) are fostering an inclusive environment where innovative ideas can reach their full commercial potential. Eligible entrepreneurs are encouraged to leverage this priority access to funding and expertise to scale their impact.
For more information, visit VELS University.