Dr. A.P.J. Abdul Kalam Technical University (AKTU), Lucknow has come up with a powerful initiative to strengthen the startup and innovation ecosystem across Uttar Pradesh. Through its Innovation Hub, AKTU has officially announced financial support of up to ₹2.00 lakh for organizing startup and entrepreneurship promotion events under the AKTU Incubator Empowerment Scheme 2026.
This scheme is specially designed for AKTU-affiliated institutions that are actively working towards encouraging innovation, entrepreneurship, startup culture, and incubation awareness among students and faculty members.
If your college or institute is affiliated with AKTU and planning to organize innovation-focused events, this scheme can provide both financial backing and institutional support.
AKTU Incubator Empowerment Scheme 2026
What is AKTU Incubator Empowerment Scheme?
The AKTU Incubator Empowerment Scheme is an initiative launched by AKTU through its Innovation Hub to promote startup-driven education and entrepreneurial thinking at the institutional and regional level.
Under this scheme, selected institutions will receive financial assistance of up to ₹2 lakh to conduct structured events such as:
- Startup workshops
- Hackathons and ideathons
- Entrepreneurship awareness programs
- Founder interaction sessions
- Incubation and commercialization workshops
The idea is simple — turn campuses into innovation hubs and encourage students to think beyond placements and towards job creation.
Why AKTU Launched This Scheme?
In recent years, India has seen rapid growth in startups, innovation-driven companies, and technology-based entrepreneurship. AKTU wants its affiliated institutions to play a key role in this ecosystem, especially in Tier-2 and Tier-3 cities of Uttar Pradesh.
The scheme aims to:
- Promote startup mindset among students
- Encourage innovation-based learning
- Connect students with industry experts and founders
- Strengthen regional startup ecosystems
- Support technology commercialization
By supporting institutions financially, AKTU ensures that lack of funds does not stop good ideas from becoming impactful events.
Eligibility Criteria for Institutions
To apply for financial support under this scheme, institutions must meet the following eligibility conditions:
- The institution must be affiliated with Dr. A.P.J. Abdul Kalam Technical University (AKTU), Uttar Pradesh
- The proposed event must focus on:
- Startup development
- Innovation
- Entrepreneurship
- Incubation awareness
Only AKTU-affiliated colleges and institutes are eligible. Private, government, and aided institutions affiliated with AKTU can apply.
Financial Support Details (₹2 Lakh Grant)
One of the biggest highlights of the scheme is the financial assistance provided by AKTU.
Key Financial Points:
- Maximum grant: ₹2,00,000 per institution
- Funding will be provided by Innovation Hub – AKTU
- Grant approval depends on:
- Quality of proposal
- Event objectives and impact
- Availability of funds
It is important to note that only selected proposals will receive financial support. Submitting a well-planned and detailed proposal increases the chances of approval.
Types of Events Supported by AKTU
AKTU has clearly mentioned the types of events that are eligible for funding under this scheme. These events must focus on innovation, startups, and entrepreneurship.
Supported Event Categories:
1. Startup & Entrepreneurship Awareness Programs
These programs aim to introduce students to startup culture, business models, funding, and real-world challenges faced by entrepreneurs.
2. Innovation Challenges, Hackathons & Ideathons
Events that encourage problem-solving, creative thinking, and innovation using technology or social solutions.
3. Startup Bootcamps & Founder Interaction Sessions
Bootcamps that offer hands-on learning and sessions where founders share their real startup journey, failures, and success stories.
4. Incubation & Technology Commercialization Workshops
Workshops focused on converting ideas into products, patents, startups, or commercial solutions.
5. Regional Startup Ecosystem Development Programs
Events that connect students, startups, investors, mentors, and industry leaders at a regional level.
Role of Innovation Hub – AKTU
The Innovation Hub – AKTU plays a crucial role in this scheme. It is not just a funding body but also a strategic partner.
Innovation Hub will provide:
- Financial support up to the approved limit
- Branding and official association with Innovation Hub – AKTU
- Strategic guidance and ecosystem linkage (wherever applicable)
Institutions must ensure proper acknowledgement of Innovation Hub – AKTU in:
- Event banners
- Certificates
- Posters
- Social media posts
- Official communications
Proposal Submission & Approval Process
Institutions interested in applying must submit a detailed event proposal.
Proposal should include:
- Clear objectives of the event
- Expected outcomes and impact
- Detailed budget breakup
- Event timeline and schedule
Once submitted, the proposal will be reviewed by AKTU authorities.
📌 Important:
Final approval will be granted by AKTU only. Not all proposals will be selected, so institutions should focus on quality and relevance.
Post-Event Requirements (Mandatory)
After successfully conducting the event, institutions must submit a post-event report within 30 days.
The report should include:
- Speaker details
- Event photographs
- Participant details
- Outcomes achieved
- Media coverage (if any)
- Utilization Certificate
This step is extremely important. Failure to submit the report may affect future funding opportunities from AKTU.
How to Apply for AKTU Incubator Empowerment Scheme 2026
AKTU has made the application process simple and online.
🔗 Application Link:
- Institutions can apply through the official link
- QR code is also provided in the official notice
- Last date to apply: 20 February 2026
Institutions are advised not to wait till the last date and submit proposals as early as possible.
Contact Details for Queries & Support
For any clarification or assistance related to the scheme, institutions can contact:
Mr. Mahip Singh
CEO, Innovation Hub – UP
📞 Phone: 9582058878
📧 Email: ceo.ihubup@aktu.ac.in
Why Institutions Should Not Miss This Opportunity
The AKTU Incubator Empowerment Scheme 2026 is more than just financial support. It is a chance to:
- Build innovation culture on campus
- Provide students real startup exposure
- Strengthen industry-academia collaboration
- Improve institutional reputation
- Align with national startup and innovation goals
With funding support of up to ₹2 lakh, institutions can organize high-impact events without financial stress.
Final Conclusion
AKTU’s initiative clearly shows its commitment towards innovation-driven education and entrepreneurship development. By empowering institutions through financial support and strategic guidance, AKTU is helping create a strong startup ecosystem in Uttar Pradesh.
If your institution is affiliated with AKTU and planning any startup or innovation-related event, this scheme is a golden opportunity. Prepare a strong proposal and apply before 20 February 2026.
