The Azim Premji Foundation has initiated a Social Startups Programme aimed at assisting professionals in the development sector to establish and manage civil society organisations that cater to the needs of underserved communities. This initiative addresses the gap faced by many experienced professionals who, despite their understanding of community challenges, struggle to secure the necessary financial backing and guidance to launch their own organisations.

According to Rajib Ghosh, head of philanthropy at the Azim Premji Foundation, there is a pressing need for more grassroots organisations, particularly in underserved regions. Ghosh emphasised that many seasoned professionals are eager to contribute more significantly but require support to take the next step in their careers. The programme is designed to facilitate this transition by enabling participants to build locally rooted organisations.

This initiative is separate from the Foundation’s existing grants programme, which primarily supports registered organisations, whether they are well-established or in the early stages of development.

Target Areas and Participant Eligibility

The inaugural cohort of the programme will consist of 100 participants from four distinct regions: Odisha, Northeast India, eastern Uttar Pradesh, and Bengaluru Urban. The programme will focus on various areas of work, including rural livelihoods, health, youth development, mental health, disability, and children’s welfare. Additional focus areas include the well-being of Adivasi communities and initiatives in urban informal settlements, which encompass crèches and community sanitation efforts.

To be eligible for the programme, applicants must be under the age of 40, possess a graduate degree, and have a minimum of three years of experience in ground-level development work. Candidates should be prepared to establish and lead a new civil society organisation and must be willing to relocate and commit long-term to their chosen geographical area. Individuals who have already registered an organisation are not eligible to apply.

The programme is structured into two phases, starting with an eight-month seeding phase during which participants will receive financial assistance to engage with communities, assess local needs, and develop their organisations. They will also receive guidance on aspects such as registration, governance, and statutory compliance. By the end of this initial phase, participants are expected to have registered their organisations and will have the opportunity to submit a grant proposal for evaluation.

Application Process and Timeline

Applications for the Social Startups Programme will be accepted from 1 November to 31 December 2026. The selection process will involve several steps, including eligibility screening, document review, a statement of purpose, an online interview, and an in-person panel discussion. The eight-month seeding phase is set to commence on 1 April 2027.

Following the completion of this phase, participants will undergo an assessment in November and December 2027 to determine their eligibility for progression to the grant phase. Those who meet the programme’s criteria may be awarded a two-year seed grant to support the establishment and enhancement of their work.

This initiative by the Azim Premji Foundation represents a significant effort to empower development professionals and foster the growth of organisations that can effectively address the needs of underserved communities across India.

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