Incubator Startup Selection Scorecard
Score and rank startup applications across team, market, tech, traction, and impact — with customisable weights and a clear accept/reject recommendation.
Scoring framework aligned with DPIIT/SISFS selection criteria and BIRAC evaluation norms. For DPIIT-funded incubators, document all scores and committee members for audit trail. Customise weights for your specific mandate (commercial, deeptech, social impact).
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Frequently asked questions
What criteria do leading Indian incubators use to select startups?
Leading incubators (IITs, IIMs, SIDBI Innovation Centres) typically evaluate: (1) founding team quality and domain expertise; (2) market size and problem severity; (3) technology differentiation or innovation; (4) early traction (users, revenue, pilots); (5) financial viability and unit economics; (6) social or environmental impact (for BIRAC/DST-funded incubators). DPIIT incubators add an innovativeness criterion.
How many startups should an incubator select per cohort?
Industry practice: Tech incubators select 10–20 startups per cohort; deeptech/biotech incubators select 5–10 due to higher mentoring intensity. SISFS guidelines require incubators to evaluate at least 3× the funded startups before making selections. IIT/IIM-affiliated incubators typically run 2 cohorts per year with 10–15 startups each.
Does an incubator need to document its selection process for DPIIT reporting?
Yes. DPIIT-recognised incubators must maintain documentation of: selection criteria, evaluation committee members, scoring rationale, and rejected applications. This documentation is subject to review during DPIIT audits and renewal assessments. SISFS-funded incubators are specifically required to show that selection was transparent, merit-based, and free from conflicts of interest.
What is the ideal batch size for a first-time incubator?
For first-time incubators, 8–12 startups per cohort is manageable. Fewer startups allow deeper mentoring but reduce networking and community benefits. The SISFS model assumes 15–30 startups per grant cycle (3 years). IIT startup incubation cells often run smaller pilot cohorts of 5–8 before scaling.
Should incubators weight impact criteria differently for DPIIT vs BIRAC grants?
Yes. For BIRAC/DST-funded incubators, technology innovation and scientific merit carry higher weight (30–40%). For DPIIT/SISFS incubators, commercial viability and market potential are primary criteria. Social incubators under DST-NIDHI weight community impact and scalability equally. Adjust weights based on your funding source's mandate and reporting requirements.