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Social Innovation Grant

Act Grant for Social Entrepreneurs:How to Apply, Benefits And Eligibility

Discover the ACT Grant for Social Entrepreneurs, including eligibility, funding support, application process, and key benefits.

February 19, 2026
10 min read
Enego Services Team

In the world of social entrepreneurship, innovative ideas and technology-driven solutions have the power to make a significant impact on education, healthcare, environment, climate action, and women entrepreneurship.

However, these ideas often face the challenge of securing adequate funding to scale and reach their full potential. For founders wondering how to raise funds for a startup in India, the grant act serves as a vital government-backed initiative designed to bridge this gap.

The government grant act for social innovation is aimed at supporting entrepreneurs by offering financial grants, mentorship, and access to an elite network of experts. In this blog, we will explore everything you need to know about the act grant details, including its eligibility criteria, required documents, and benefits.

What is the Act Grant?

The grant act program is specifically designed to empower social entrepreneurs who have an innovative, technology-led solution that can create sustainable change.

Unlike a traditional without security business loan, this grant provides non-dilutive and non-repayable capital. The grant primarily supports early-stage businesses working on impact-driven solutions.

These businesses could range from ed-tech startups tackling the learning divide to clean-tech companies addressing climate change or healthcare innovations focusing on underserved communities. It aligns perfectly with the goals of the Social Impact Innovation Scheme.

Focus Areas of the Act Grant

The act grant details highlight four key sectors that are prioritized for funding:

🎓 Education

Tech-driven solutions to improve literacy, digital learning, and skill development for marginalized groups.

🏥 Health

Innovations that bridge the access and affordability gaps in primary healthcare, cancer care, and mental health.

🌍 Environment & Climate Action

Startups working on sustainability, clean energy, waste management, and water security. (Similar to the PM KUSUM Scheme).

👩‍💼 Women Entrepreneurship

Promoting women’s economic participation and providing funding for women-led social ventures.

Eligibility Criteria for the Act Grant

To successfully apply under the government grant act, applicants need to meet specific act grant eligibility standards:

Eligibility Table

CriteriaDetails
Gender EligibilityOpen to women entrepreneurs and gender-diverse leadership teams.
Target SectorsMust operate in Education, Health, Environment, or Women Entrepreneurship.
Stage of StartupPrimarily for early-stage startups with a viable MVP (Minimum Viable Product).
Technology FocusMust have a technology-driven solution with potential for large-scale impact.
GeographySpecifically targeted towards Indian startups solving Indian social challenges.
RegistrationMust have a valid startup india certification and Registration.

Do you have a tech-driven solution that can make an impact in social sectors?

Apply for the Act Grant today and receive the funding you need to scale!

Benefits of the Act Grant

The grant act offers a holistic support system that goes beyond simple capital injection.

Non-Repayable Financial Assistance

Non-dilutive grants that don't require you to give up equity or pay back interest.

Seed Funding

Awards typically range from ₹5 Lakhs to ₹50 Lakhs based on the potential of the proposed solution.

Elite Mentorship

Guidance from industry experts to refine your growth strategy.

Networking

Access to corporate partners, investors, and startup funding India resources.

Demo Day Exposure

Opportunities to pitch to a diverse group of impact investors and stakeholders.

MSME Support

Alignment with the MSME Act to ensure regulatory ease and compliance.

Documents Required for the Act Grant Application

Preparation is key to a successful act grant application. Ensure you have all the Documents required for act grant ready:

  • Business Profile: Company website link, product/service details, and pitch deck.
  • Founder & Team Details: CVs highlighting experience and roles.
  • Financial Proof: Last 6 months of bank statements and ITR (if applicable).
  • Registration Proof: MSME Certification and DPIIT Recognition.
  • Innovation Narrative: Proof of Concept (PoC) or working prototype demo.
  • Compliance Docs: Proof of business registration (Pvt Ltd/LLP).

How to Apply for the Act Grant

Applying for the grant act is a structured process designed to filter the most impactful innovations:

1

Drafting the Plan

2

Document Compilation

3

Portal Submission

4

Technical Evaluation

5

Selection & Mentorship

Startups in the tech space may also find the MeitY Genesis EIR 2 or Startup Spark Scheme highly beneficial as complementary funding sources.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the Act Grant?

The grant act is a Private backed initiative designed to provide financial and strategic support to social entrepreneurs solving Indian challenges using technology.

Who is eligible to apply for the Act Grant?

Indian startups in the early stages, focusing on Education, Health, Climate, or Women Entrepreneurship with a scalable tech solution.

How much funding can startups receive from the Act Grant?

Under the act grant details, startups can receive between ₹5 Lakhs and ₹50 Lakhs in seed funding.

What documents are required for the Act Grant application?

You need your pitch deck, MSME Certificate, bank statements, and DPIIT recognition certificate.

Can I apply if I already have a Mudra loan?

Yes, having a Mudra loan or a PMEGP loan does not disqualify you from applying for the Act Grant.

Conclusion: Empower Your Startup with the Act Grant

The grant act is a powerful opportunity for women entrepreneurs and social innovators who are working on game-changing solutions. With seed funding, mentorship, and a robust network of investors, this grant can propel your startup into its next phase of growth.

Don’t miss out on this opportunity to scale your innovative solutions. To ensure your application is bank-ready and professional, you can join an MSME growth advisory session or read the truth about Enego services.

Ready to scale your impact?

Apply now and access non-repayable grants, mentorship, and a global network.