About this programme
The Technology Exploration Cell (TEC) Grant is iCreate's non-dilutive, early-stage funding program designed to encourage innovators and entrepreneurs to develop working prototypes and proofs-of-concept (PoC) of technology-driven ideas. The program is residential and sector-agnostic, open to individual innovators, students, working professionals, and startups at the Idea-to-PoC or PoC-ready stage. Funding is disbursed in four tranches over a 90-day PoC development cycle. The program emphasizes campus residency as strongly recommended and preferred in selection decisions. It is run by Gujarat Foundation for Entrepreneurial Excellence (GFEE) — operating as iCreate (International Centre for Entrepreneurship and Technology).
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
Successful applicants receive TEC Grant funding disbursed in four tranches: the first tranche as advance, remainder tranches subject to demonstrated progress. The PoC must be developed within 90 days. iCreate provides mentoring, hand-holding, orientation, and milestone reviews. The grant is non-dilutive (no equity or repayment required). Applicants are strongly encouraged to reside on campus during the program; those who commit to residency receive preferential consideration in selection.
Who can apply
Individual innovators, students, working professionals, or startups with technology-innovation-led projects at Idea-to-PoC or PoC-ready stage. Sector-agnostic; any domain qualifies if it has technology innovation as the core element. No formal education or background restrictions; residential program with on-campus residency strongly recommended.
How to apply
- Apply on iCreate's website with project description and team background
- Submit idea summary or PoC-stage documentation
- Indicate residential commitment (on-campus participation preferred)
- Selection committee evaluates based on technology innovation core and team readiness
- Approved applicants begin 90-day PoC development cycle
Documents you’ll typically need
- Project proposal describing technology innovation and problem statement
- Team member profiles and experience summary
- Existing prototypes or proof-of-concept evidence (if at PoC-ready stage)
- Residential commitment confirmation (preferred)
The exact checklist depends on the programme and your specifics.
Frequently asked
Is the TEC Grant a loan or does it require equity?
No. TEC Grant is entirely non-dilutive—you receive the funding as a grant with no equity stake or repayment obligation.
How quickly can I develop the PoC?
The PoC must be developed within 90 days. iCreate provides mentoring and support throughout the cycle, with tranched funding tied to milestone progress.
Is on-campus residency mandatory?
While strongly recommended and preferred in selection, residency is not strictly mandatory. However, applicants who commit to residential participation receive prioritized consideration.
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.