FITT, IIT Delhi — Foundation for Innovation and Technology Transfer The Foundation for Innovation and Technology Transfer (FITT) is the primary industry-academia interface of IIT Delhi. Established on 9 July 1992 as a registered society by the IIT Delhi Board of Governors, FITT…
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Frequently Asked Questions
What is the Ubharte Sitaare Programme?
USP (Ubharte Sitaare Programme) is an Exim Bank initiative that identifies and supports Indian companies with strong export potential through a mix of equity, debt, and technical assistance. It targets small and mid-sized companies with differentiated technology, products, or processes.
What kind of funding is offered through the FITT cohort call?
The FITT, IIT Delhi cohort call offers equity or equity-linked investments between ₹27.5 lakh and ₹1.1 crore per company. This is not a grant — Exim Bank takes an equity or equity-linked stake in the company.
Do I need to be a FITT incubatee to apply?
Yes. The FITT, IIT Delhi cohort call is restricted to startups that are active incubatees or participants in a FITT acceleration programme. If you are not yet in the FITT ecosystem, you cannot apply through this cohort.
Is DPIIT recognition mandatory?
The programme requires applicants to be either a DPIIT-recognized startup OR a registered MSME (Udyam). At least one of these registrations is a hard eligibility requirement.
Is this equity funding? Will Exim Bank take a stake in my company?
Yes. The funding is structured as equity or equity-linked instruments (e.g., compulsorily convertible debentures). Exim Bank will hold a stake in your company. This is not a grant or a loan — it is investment capital.
What sectors does the programme prioritise?
Priority sectors include Automobiles and Auto Components, Aerospace, Capital Goods, Chemicals, Defence, Food Processing, IT & ITeS, Machinery, Pharmaceuticals, Precision Engineering, and Textiles. Companies in adjacent sectors with strong export potential are also considered.
What is the application deadline?
The current FITT cohort call closes on 10 July 2026 at 11:59 PM IST. Applications must be submitted via the FITT-Accubate portal before this deadline.
Is there a turnover cap to apply?
Yes. The programme targets small and mid-sized companies with an annual turnover of up to approximately INR 500 crore. Very large companies are outside the programme scope.
What technical assistance does USP provide?
Technical assistance covers product adaptation for export markets, international certifications (CE, FDA, ISO, etc.), staff training, overseas market development travel, TEV studies, and sector or regulatory landscape research. TA may also be extended to incubation centres and research institutes.
Can I apply if my startup has already raised VC funding?
Yes. Prior funding does not disqualify you. Exim Bank is a co-investor, not a lead-only investor. You should however disclose your cap table and any existing investor rights that may affect Exim Bank's equity position.
Quick Answer
FITT, IIT Delhi invites applications for equity/equity-linked investments under Exim Bank's Ubharte Sitaare Programme for Indian startups with strong export potential.
The Ubharte Sitaare Programme (USP), implemented by FITT, IIT Delhi, identifies and nurtures Indian companies with significant export potential. This program focuses on supporting 'future champions' that possess inherent advantages in technology, products, or processes, even if they are currently underperforming or struggling to reach their full growth potential. The support provided is a strategic mix, encompassing equity and debt financing, alongside crucial technical assistance. The primary objectives are to bolster India's global competitiveness in key sectors, enhance the export business of companies with differentiated offerings, address financial barriers preventing scale-up, and help existing exporters expand into new markets and product categories.
Eligibility
See if you're eligible
Full eligibility criteria — entity type, stage, sector, founder profile and registration requirements — plus your fit for this program. Sign up to view.
Benefits & Funding
Amount
₹27.5 Lakhs – ₹1.1 Cr
What You Get
The programme provides equity or equity-linked investments ranging from ₹27.5 Lakh to ₹1.1 Crore per startup. Beyond capital, selected companies receive extensive handholding support and technical assistance covering areas like product adaptation, certifications, market development, overseas travel, and various sector/market/regulatory studies. This holistic support aims to enhance India's competitiveness in global markets and help companies overcome scaling challenges.
