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Frequently asked questions
Which programme should I apply for?
It depends on how far along your product and AI capability are. Use Find Your Programme for a guided recommendation, or read the Pre-Incubation, Incubation and Acceleration pages directly. Final placement is decided by the Selection Committee during evaluation.
Can an idea-stage founder apply?
Yes. Pre-Incubation is designed for founders who have identified a meaningful problem and believe AI can provide a differentiated solution, even without meaningful commercial traction yet.
Does my startup need to be incorporated?
Incorporation is not mandatory for Pre-Incubation. Stage-appropriate requirements apply for Incubation and Acceleration.
Do I need DPIIT recognition?
DPIIT recognition is not mandatory at the application stage.
Can startups outside Keralam apply?
Yes. Startups from outside Keralam can apply.
Do I need to relocate?
Permanent relocation to Keralam is not mandatory. Selected startups should, however, meaningfully participate in Centre activities.
How much does workspace cost?
Commercial workspace is priced at ₹6,000 per seat / month, including GST. Programme participation does not automatically include unlimited free workspace: allocation depends on availability and programme needs.
Is GPU compute free?
No. Compute access is subsidised, not free, and allocated on a needs-based, technically justified basis, subject to availability. Rates will be published once formally approved.
How is compute allocated?
Needs-based, technically justified, programme-linked, subject to availability, and reviewed periodically against actual utilisation.
What are the subsidised rates?
Subsidised compute access: rates to be announced, based on approved allocation policy.
Does the Centre take equity?
No. The Centre takes no equity for programme participation.
Who owns my IP?
You do. Programme participation does not transfer your startup's IP to the Centre, Digital University Kerala or programme partners. Any specific collaborative research or jointly developed IP is governed by a separate agreement where applicable.
Can I apply without revenue?
Yes. Pre-Incubation and Incubation are both designed for pre-revenue and early-revenue startups.
Can funded startups apply?
Yes. Funded startups can apply.
Can university/research projects apply?
Yes. University and research projects can apply, particularly for Pre-Incubation where there is a credible path towards productisation or startup formation.
Can I apply to more than one programme?
Apply to only one programme. The Selection Committee can recommend a more appropriate programme based on your maturity and fit.
Can the Selection Committee change my programme?
Yes. Your preferred programme is a starting point, and final placement is determined through the Centre's evaluation and selection process.
What happens after selection?
Offer → Onboarding → Programme Begins. You'll receive clear next steps at each stage.
Does selection guarantee funding?
No. The Centre facilitates funding-readiness support and investor introductions based on programme needs, readiness and availability. It does not guarantee investment.
Does selection guarantee government pilots?
No. The Centre facilitates access to government and industry opportunities where relevant, subject to evaluation and partner interest. It does not guarantee pilots or procurement.
Can I reapply?
Yes. Startups can reapply for subsequent cohorts after making meaningful progress.