Supporting Partners

About IGNITE

Innovative start-ups play a crucial role in driving transformative change for micro-enterprises and Self-Help Groups (SHGs) by developing tailored solutions that address their unique challenges. These ventures harness creativity and technology to provide accessible tools and resources, empowering these communities to enhance productivity, improve financial literacy, and streamline operations. By fostering collaboration and knowledge-sharing, these start-ups not only promote sustainable economic growth but also uplift individuals and families, creating a ripple effect of positive social impact. Through initiatives in areas such as financial services, training, and technology integration, these pioneering companies are revolutionizing how micro-enterprises and SHGs operate, ultimately leading to stronger, more resilient communities.

SOLUTIONS THAT CAN TRANSFORM THE GIVEN BELOW DOMAINS FOR MICRO ENTERPRISES MAY APPLY FOR THE PROGRAM

OFFERINGS

The Selected Start-up can get up to ₹10 lakhs as funding for supporting impactful solutions for micro-enterprises and Self-Help Groups (SHGs).

ELIGIBILITY CRITERIA

You have a start-up entity registered and based in India.
Start-up focused on providing solutions for micro-enterprises or SHGs.
The start-up should offer an innovative product, service, or technology that addresses specific challenges faced by micro-enterprises or SHGs.

Apply Now

Digital Marketing Partner – Smart Shree E-Commerce Portal

IIMK LIVE is executing the Smart Shree project in association with Kudumbashree Mission to support 150 Kdumbashree units is Kerala to scale up their revenues and operations. As part of the scale up plan and to find new sales channels for these smart shree units, the centre would like to launch an e-commerce portal with the support of Kudumbashree mission. Towards this the centre is seeking the support of a digital marketing company who can work with the centre and the units in building and executing digital marketing strategies for promoting the e-commerce portal and ensuring wider reach and conversion for the products listed on the portal.

Expected Deliverables

1. Brand Positioning & Strategy

Define Target Audience (demographics, interests, online behaviour).
Create a Unique Value Proposition (UVP) – why should customers choose your portal over competitors?
Decide on branding elements – logo, colors, tone of voice, and content style.

2. Website Optimization (Before Marketing Push)

Ensure mobile-first design
Optimize for fast loading speed and secure checkout (SSL, UPI/Wallet support).
Add SEO-friendly content (category descriptions, product details, FAQs).
Enable tracking & analytics (Google Analytics 4, Facebook Pixel, Search Console).

3. Search Engine Optimization (SEO)

Keyword research for product categories.
On-page SEO: Title tags, meta descriptions, schema markup.
Blog/Content Marketing: Buying guides, “Top 10” lists, product comparisons.
Backlink building: PR articles, directory submissions, influencer collaborations.

4. Paid Advertising (Performance Marketing)

Google Ads – Shopping ads, search ads for purchase-intent keywords.
Meta Ads (Facebook/Instagram) – Product catalogue ads, carousel ads, retargeting abandoned carts.

5. Social Media Marketing

Platforms: Instagram, Facebook, LinkedIn (B2B), Pinterest (lifestyle products).
Content Types: Product showcases, reels, customer stories, behind-the-scenes.
Influencer collaborations & affiliate marketing.
Run contests, giveaways, referral campaigns.

6. Email & WhatsApp Marketing

Build email list via popups, offers, first-order discounts.
Automated flows:
- Welcome series for new users.
- Cart abandonment reminders.
- Order confirmation & upsell.
Use WhatsApp for order updates, personalized offers, and re-engagement.

7. Affiliate & Influencer Marketing

Launch an affiliate program (via platforms like Impact, Cue links, or in-house).
Micro-influencers in your niche.

8. Customer Engagement & Loyalty

Launch a loyalty program – cashback, points, or rewards for repeat buyers.
Collect reviews & ratings (video testimonials, Google reviews).
Use UGC (User-Generated Content) for credibility.

9. Analytics & Continuous Improvement

Weekly performance check (traffic, conversion, CAC vs LTV).
A/B test product pages, ad creatives, landing pages.

Please Note

Rate should be quoted per month basis
Expected duration of engagement is 12 Months
A separate service agreement shall be signed with the selected agency for executing campaign and managing the platform.
Budget for the Digital Media promotion should be quoted separately, it should have the budget for engaging influencers as well.
Any expense related to travel and accommodation shall be paid at actuals by IIMK LIVE
The proposal should clearly cover the deliverables and the targeted overall sales from the e-commerce portal.
Amount quoted shall be inclusive of taxes

Apply Now

Distribution Network Partner (Smart Shree Project)

As part of the Smart Shree Project, the centre would like to engage with potential companies that can advise and establish a sales distribution network to support the Kudumbashree units in distributing their products to retail stores in Kerala. Currently these units are not selling their products to the retail market, as there is no established distribution network/channel to sell these products in the retail and supermarket chains in Kerala. Considering the operational nature of these units, a unique distribution model has to be developed connecting Kudumbashree Mission, IIMK LIVE, and the units for establishing a strong distribution network for supporting the retail sales and the scale-up of these units.

Given these reasons, the centre is planning to invite proposals from potential companies who can study the operations of these units and develop and implement an appropriate distribution model that would help in the scale-up of Kudumbashree units under the Smart Shree programs and also adopt these models across other units in Kerala.

Key deliverables expected from the applicants

Carry out SWOT analysis and market work to understand the potential distribution channels.
& appropriate models for the Kudumbashree Units.
Identification of distribution channel/channels appropriate for the Kudumbashree units
Identification of two test markets in Kerala to implement the identified distribution model
Selection and appointment of distribution/channels in these two test markets
Launch and on-boarding of channel partners/distributors
Setting the Route maps and execution of the distribution plan including the pricing and
margins for the products sold via retail channel.
Developing and implementing retail communication strategies, schemes and product display at outlets
Close engagement with the distribution partners, setting the distribution KPI’s and monitoring their performances
Distribution Operations planning, preparing the beat plan, activity calendar and formats
Channel servicing, stock maintaining policies and policies related to return of unsold/ damaged goods
Suggesting distribution controls, analytics, reports digital tools for inventory, order tracking and payment collection
Further launch in other markets and progression of templates developed
Preparing and submitting a detailed report on the appropriate channels, market overview, pricing, store display, distributor selection & monitoring, key learnings along with templates and formats to implement in other geographies.

Duration of Engagement: 8 Months

Geography: Kerala Region

Other Teams and conditions

Rate should be quoted per month basis
Expected duration of engagement is 8 Months
Any expense related to travel and accommodation shall be paid at actuals by IIMK LIVE
Amount quoted shall be inclusive of taxes

Apply Now

Frequently Asked Questions

1. What is the Ignite Program?

The Ignite Program aims to support innovative start-ups that develop impactful solutions for micro-enterprises and Self-Help Groups (SHGs). Through this program, IIMK LIVE will fund and connect the selected startups to Micro Enterprises in the country.

2. Who can apply for the program?

Start-ups building innovative solutions for Micro Enterprises in areas such as supply chain and logistics, financial services, marketing and sales, packaging/distribution, platforms, lending, manufacturing, and training/capacity building can apply.

3. What kind of solutions are we looking for?

We are looking for innovative and technology-driven solutions that address the unique challenges faced by micro-enterprises and SHGs. These solutions should enhance productivity, streamline the operations and support their overall growth.

4. How much funding is available?

Start-ups building solutions for Micro Enterprises/SHG’s can receive funding of up to ₹25 lakh to develop and implement.

5. What are the eligibility criteria?

Applicants must be registered start-ups with a clear focus on creating impactful solutions for micro-enterprises and SHGs. Specific criteria may vary, so please check the detailed eligibility requirements on our website.

6. How can I apply?

Applications can be submitted through our official website. Please ensure that you provide all required documentation and information about your product/solution

7. What is the selection process?

Applications will be evaluated based on the innovation, feasibility, and potential impact of the proposed solution for Micro Enterprises. As part of the final selection, shortlisted candidates may be invited for pitching with the selection committee.

8. 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.

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

Yes. You may apply for the program.

10. I am a student/ alumni/ faculty member of IIM Kozhikode. Do I still need to apply for this 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.

11. 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.

12. How and where will the pitching round be held?

The pitching process will be held virtually.

13. 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.

14. 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.

15. Is there any fee associated with applying?

There is no fee to apply for the Ignite Program.

16. What support will be provided beyond funding?

In addition to funding, we offer mentorship, networking opportunities, and access to resources that can help start-ups refine their solutions and scale their impact.

17. When is the application deadline?

Please check our website for the most current deadlines and updates regarding the application process.

18. Can I apply if I’m not based in India?

As the focus is on Indian micro-enterprises and SHGs, we encourage innovative start-ups from India having solutions for Micro Enterprises to apply for this program.

19. How will the funding be disbursed?

Funding will be disbursed based on project milestones and deliverables outlined in the investment agreement.

20. Can I apply for funding if my start-up is at an early stage?

Yes, we encourage early-stage start-ups with traction to apply for funding in this program. Startups at the idea stage and prototyping stage may not be considered for funding.