Plugin

1. What is the deadline for submission?

Thursday, 12th December 2019. However, the applications will be screened on a rolling basis. We encourage the teams to apply ahead of the deadline.

2. Where is the program conducted?

Intel India Maker Lab in Bengaluru & SINE Incubator in Mumbai

3. Does the team need to relocate to Mumbai or Bangalore?

No. Up to 2 relevant members from the startup must be physically present in Mumbai or Bangalore to attend all the training/ workshops/ any other relevant sessions during the course of the program

4. Is there any upfront equity consideration for participating in program?

There is no upfront equity.

5. Will startups receive funding as part of the program?

Total fund of up to INR 1 crore as seed funding is available. This will be distributed among the top performing (2-3) startups towards the end of the program in the form of convertible equity that will convert at the time of the next or later financing round.

6. Is there any joining fee to participate in the program?

There is no joining fee nor any charge.

7. Do I need to share IP ownership with the program partners?

No. The IP ownership will remain with the start up.

8. If I am selected, can I be part of other startup programs during Plugin program duration?

There are no such restrictions. However, if it comes in conflict with Plugin program, then it may be avoided.

9. I have not incorporated my startup as a Private Limited Company, can I apply?

No. You need to be incorporated as a Private Limited Company to apply for Plugin. Please refer to the eligibility criteria for further details.

10. My startup is already funded and has an upfront valuation. Can I still apply?

Yes, an already funded startup is also eligible for the program subject to the terms and conditions.

11. At what stage of product development can I apply for this program?

Stage can be in the range of Minimum Viable Product (MVP) to Pilot trial stage or higher. In the case of MVP, the need must be validated by a target customer. The program is not meant for idea or lab level startups.

12. What is the process if I have to make changes to my application post submission?

Applications once submitted cannot be edited. You would need to fill in a separate application and the jury members will review the form that was submitted last. We recommend the applicant download the form, fill it offline to minimize errors and submit it in one go online.

13. Can I submit more than one application?

Generally it is expected that applicants have a focussed approach on one business problem. However, If the applicant is working on multiple products, we prefer that that he/she submits the best out of these.

14. Can I submit my application via email?

No. The application has to be submitted via the online application form. Email applications will not be considered as valid submission.

15. Can I apply only for the challenges that are mentioned? If yes, how many challenges can I apply for?

Yes. You can apply for a maximum of 3 challenges mentioned in the application form. You also need to provide the order of priority. You will be evaluated based on your priority 1. The detailed description of the challenges can be found here

16. What is the process of selection?

Step 1: Apply to the program through our website www.plugin.org.in by clicking on the "Apply now" button on or before 12th December 2019.

Step 2: Shortlisting of startups for personal interview.

Step 3: Interview in person of shortlisted startups on Monday, 6th January in Bengaluru. Top startups will be shortlisted for initial boot camp in Bengaluru in January 2020.

Step 4:The initial batch of shortlisted startups (up to 25 startups) will undergo a 3-4 day initial bootcamp at Bengaluru from 17-20 January 2020.

Step 5: The startups will be assessed on various progress parameters for the next 3-4 weeks. Up to top 11 startups will be selected to receive the full program benefits.

17 .What kind of support will be provided for product development?

Technical support will largely be from Intel, and therefore, platforms compatible with Intel® Architecture will be supported. Select hardware kits from Intel for Maker platforms, IoT, client computing will be provided to the selected startups. In addition, access to lab facilities, prototyping and testing equipment will be provided at either SINE Incubation centre at Mumbai or at the Intel India Maker Lab at Bengaluru. More details about Intel Hardware

18. How much access will we get to the mentors ?

Plugin will have in house coaches who will mentor the teams. These will be individuals with multiple years of experience and expertise in their respective fields. The mentors would be available for a definite number of hours per month.

19. What can I expect in international visit and exposure?

One participant per startup will be sponsored for a 3-4 day trip to China, which they can leverage for connecting with the manufacturing ecosystem there.

Frequently Asked Questions