iAccelerator, IIM Ahmedabad’s incubation program, calls forapplications from internet & mobile startups

If you are an entrepreneur or aspiring to be one in the internet or mobile space, you’re probably already aware of the criticality of the first year, in ensuring the startup’s success. Most companies in this segment go from idea to product to user acquisition in less than a year. There is always the risk of products and services becoming obsolete if there’s too much of a wait to implement the idea or to develop the product. In such cases, agility becomes an absolute necessity. A partner who can expedite the growth of a startup in the right direction is, therefore, vital. After all, most startups run out of time before they run out of money.The iAccelerator program, an initiative of Centre for Innovation Incubation and Entrepreneurship (CIIE) at IIM-A, is designed to provide startups with the healthiest start possible. It is an incubation program that equips technology entrepreneurs to establish well run, technically excellent and profitable companies. CIIE’s experience, network and capital ensure that the iAccelerator startups have a more pronounced chance at success. The program is now accepting applications and is looking for brilliant individuals and teams in the internet and mobile domain.

Speaking about the evaluation criteria, Tanvi Rangwala, Director (ICT Initiatives), CIIE, IIM Ahmedabad told YourStory that startups would be evaluated on the basis of the team, value proposition, competitive advantage and business model.

She added that startups who get accepted would receive Rs. 5 lakhs in seed funding, mentoring from industry experts in areas relevant to the business and a chance to showcase the product in front of early stage investors. But according to iAccelerator alumni companies, being able to interact with the like-minded hackers and startups is the best part of the program.

The program has played an essential role in the success of startups such as Flick2know, HashCube, Innoz Technologies, Aplopio and more. During previous iAccelerator programs, the incubatee companies have learnt about the industry and entrepreneurship first-hand from mentors and speakers such as Sanjeev Bikhchandani of Naukri.com, Alok Kejriwal of Games2Win, Sean Blagsvedt of Babajob.com and Nishith Desai of NDA.

So, if you have an idea or startup in seed/early stage in the internet or mobile space, do check out www.iaccelerator.org.