About this programme
PIERC is an incubation programme at Parul University that supports startups from idea stage through prototype to growth stage over a 2.5-year journey. The programme provides seed funding up to Rs 10 lakhs and offers mentorship, IP protection support, and connections to venture capital investors. It is free and government-funded through the SSIP scheme, open to students, alumni, and external entrepreneurs. It is run by Parul Innovation and Entrepreneurship Research Centre (PIERC), Parul University.
A grant is financial support you don’t repay — awarded against eligibility and, usually, agreed milestones or utilisation of funds. The amount and form of support that actually apply to you depend on the programme’s rules and how your application is assessed — they are not fixed for every applicant.
Like most government programmes, it has its own eligibility conditions, documentation and application window, and these terms are revised from time to time. Because of that, it is worth confirming the current eligibility, amount and deadline on the official programme page before you invest time in applying.
How it works
Startups enter via a 2-week training programme and progress through idea, prototype, and growth stages over 2.5 years. The 5-stage funding ladder provides: SSIP Rs 2.5 lakh (seed/prototype), iHUB Rs 10 lakh (product built), State Startup Gujarat Rs 30 lakh, SISFS Rs 70 lakh (Government of India), and NIVESH (investor connect). Each stage requires demonstrating milestones before progression.
Who can apply
Open to students, alumni, and external entrepreneurs at idea stage through growth stage. Entry requires completion of a 2-week training programme. Registered with SSIP (Startup Support & Innovation Programme) as an approved incubation centre.
How to apply
- Contact Student Welfare office or studentwelfare@paruluniversity.ac.in with business idea and team details
- Complete the 2-week mandatory training programme
- Submit application through PIERC to be enrolled in the incubation programme
- Progress through idea, prototype, and growth stages with mentor guidance
- Apply for government grants (SSIP, iHUB, etc.) as milestones are met
Documents you’ll typically need
- Business plan/idea pitch
- Aadhaar ID of founders
- Educational credentials (for students)
- Project report for subsequent government grants
The exact checklist depends on the programme and your specifics.
Frequently asked
Is PIERC open only to Parul University students?
No. PIERC is open to students, alumni, and external entrepreneurs.
What is the maximum funding available?
Up to Rs 10 Lakhs in seed funding, with additional government grants available through the 5-stage funding ladder reaching Rs 70 lakhs at the highest stage.
Is there a cost to join PIERC?
No, PIERC is free and entirely government-funded through the SSIP (Startup Support & Innovation Programme).
How long is the incubation programme?
The full incubation journey spans 2.5 years, progressing through idea, prototype, and growth stages.
Reviewed July 2026. Government programmes change — confirm current eligibility, amounts and deadlines on the official programme page before you apply. CapEasy is a private consultancy and is not affiliated with any government authority.