Azim Premji Foundation launches Social Startups Programme

November 4, 2026 /Posted byPrajwal EW / 0

The programme will support young professionals in establishing grassroots organisations, with applications open until December 31, 2026.

The Azim Premji Foundation has launched the Social Startups Programme to support development sector professionals in establishing and leading civil society organisations focused on underserved communities.

The programme aims to address the lack of financial support and guidance available to experienced professionals seeking to establish grassroots organisations. It will provide financial assistance, mentorship and learning opportunities to help participants develop locally rooted initiatives.

Rajib Ghosh, Head – Philanthropy, Azim Premji Foundation, said the programme aims to encourage more grassroots organisations, particularly in underserved areas, by supporting experienced professionals in establishing their own organisations. He added that the initiative is separate from the Foundation’s regular grants programme, which supports existing registered organisations.

The first cohort will comprise approximately 100 participants across Odisha, North-East India, Eastern Uttar Pradesh and Bengaluru Urban. Supported areas will include rural livelihoods, health, youth, mental health, disability, children’s welfare, Adivasi community welfare, urban informal settlements, community sanitation and welfare rights.

Eligibility

Applicants must be below 40 years of age, hold a graduate degree and have at least three years of grassroots experience in the development sector. They must intend to establish and lead a new civil society organisation, be willing to relocate and commit to working in their chosen geography. Applicants who have already registered an organisation are not eligible.

Programme structure

The programme will have two phases. The first is an eight-month seeding phase, during which participants will receive financial support to engage with communities, understand local needs and develop their organisations. They will also receive guidance on registration, governance and statutory compliance.

At the end of this phase, participants are expected to have registered their organisations and may submit grant proposals for evaluation. Eligible participants may subsequently receive a two-year seed grant to establish and strengthen their organisations.

Applications and selection

Applications are open from November 1 to December 31, 2026. The selection process will include eligibility screening, document review, a statement of purpose, an online interview and an in-person panel discussion.

The eight-month seeding phase will begin on April 1, 2027. Participants will be assessed in November and December 2027 for progression to the grant phase.

For programme details, eligibility criteria and applications, visit the Azim Premji Foundation website.

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Azim Premji Foundation launches Social Startups Programme

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