In recent years, the Indian technology landscape has witnessed remarkable advancements towards the creation of a robust start-up ecosystem in the country. This startup ecosystem has produced many startups that have become the front runners of the fintech revolution in India  by introducing innovative ways of solving critical problems. With the objective to support the entrepreneurial journey of these new-age companies, IIMK LIVE in collaboration with the International Financial Services Centres Authority (IFSCA)  has launched FINN X, a fintech-themed accelerator program. FINN X accelerator program focuses on bolstering the growth of start-ups leveraging fintech to deliver ground-breaking products and solutions. This program intends to support fintech startups in accelerating their growth trajectory by helping them obtain scale-up funds and acquiring the right business acumen and competencies to roll out impactful solutions that can act as game changers.

What is FINN X?

FINN X is a fintech accelerator program supported by IIMK LIVE. This is 2 month accelerator program to support early-stage startups with innovative products and solutions in the Fintech space.

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What are the benefits that startups get from this program?

• Mentoring Support from Fintech experts and from Business Experts.  

• Grants upto  Rs. 75 Lakhs

• Market access and Investor Connect 

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Can any Fintech startups apply for this program?

Yes. As this is a sector-agnostic Fintech accelerator program any startup in the Fintech domain can apply for this program, however, the preference will be given to startups with innovative products and at scale stage with early traction.

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What kinds of funds are offered for startups under this program?

There are two types of funds available in this program, one is grants up to Rs. 75 lakhs provided by IFSCA and then direct equity investment by IIMK LIVE.  In the case of direct equity investment startup valuation and investment terms shall be discussed with the startups at the time of Investment. Apart from this, the center will also connect the startups to other angel/Venture capitalists associated with IIMK LIVE. 

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Will all the startups selected under this program get funded?

No. The startups selected for funding will be subjected to evaluation and recommendation by the investment committee at the center.

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Is it a virtual or Physical Accelerator Program?

This acceleration program is structured as a hybrid accelerator program. Startups are not mandated to work physically from the accelerator space provided at LIVE.

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How often are applications invited?

Applications for the FINN X Program are invited only once a year. You may apply for the program directly through the IIMK LIVE website www.iimklive.org 

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Can I be eligible to apply if my startup has received grants/awards/equity investments, etc.?

Yes. You are eligible to apply if your startup has already received grants/awards/investments from other agencies. This would add value to your startup in many ways.

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What are the main parameters you consider while evaluating a startup?

A unique, innovative solution with a strong team and early traction in the fintech domain will be considered in the evaluation and selection.  Finally, all the decisions concerning the evaluation and selection of startups for this program shall be based on the recommendations of the selection committee.

What are the eligibility requirements for applying to the FINN X Accelerator Program?  

Applicants need to match the following:

• You have a start-up entity registered and based in India.

• You are working in any of the fintech areas/domain

• Your innovative product/solution is ready for commercialization.

• Start-ups with innovative products/solutions and with early traction in terms of customer and revenue will be given preference

Can I submit multiple applications for this program?

No. Multiple applications are not allowed for this program. Your first application will be considered as the final application for evaluation.

I am not associated with IIM Kozhikode as a student/ alumni/ faculty member. Can I apply for the LIVE Accelerator Program?

Yes. You may apply for the program.

I am a student/ alumni/ faculty member of IIM Kozhikode. Do I still need to apply for the LIVE Accelerator Program?

Yes. There is only one admissions process for all applicants. IIMK students/ alumni/ faculty may get priority, subject to the merit of the business idea.

I am already an incubatee of IIMK LIVE; should I again apply for this program?

Yes. You may have to apply for this program separately, and you will be part of the selection process.

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Is there an application fee?

LIVE makes an effort to find, support, and grow early-stage social entrepreneurs who can build high-impact sustainable organizations and doesn’t charge any fee for this program.

Number of evaluation rounds?

There will be two rounds of evaluation.  After the initial selection,  shortlisted startups will be invited to make a short pitch in front of the final selection committee.

How and where will the pitching round be held?

The pitching process will be held virtually. 

How will I know about the result of each round?

IIMK LIVE will inform you of the status of the application via email to your registered email ID.

How can sensitive information about my startup be protected?

Information related to each startup will be highly confidential at the center. Details of the startup will be shared only with the selection committee. 

Is the Fintech accelerator program sector and function-agnostic?

LIVE seeks to develop resources to focus on a few thrust areas so that it can provide intensive support and services to startups as part of the accelerator program. At this juncture, it would not restrict applicants based on technology/sectoral focus hence it is a sector-agnostic accelerator program. 

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If the startup gets selected to the FINN X program will they receive funding under this scheme ?

Please note that the selection of startup in the FINN X Accelerator Program doesn't guarantee funding support, the funding support is subjected to recommendation by the investments committees constituted by the  respective agencies.

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How can I reach out to your team to clarify my doubts regarding the program?

For any query, write to us at enquiry@iimklive.org