The Smart Cities Accelerator Program is a 12-week intensive accelerator designed for high-potential startups from around the world. The program aims to address key urban challenges faced by cities in India through innovative technological solutions. Selected startups will gain deep insights into the Indian market, learn about public procurement processes, and develop strategies for their solutions to effectively tackle urban issues. Target Participants: Startups with innovative solutions for urban challenges such as waste management, smart transportation, energy efficiency, water management, and public safety.

Digital Acceleration

An intense 3-months hybrid accelerator deigned to enable market expansion in Indian cities and especially an opportunity to penetrate Indian public sector.

Public Procurement

Including extensive training and orientation of public procurement of Indian Market and provide exclusive consortium opportunities for Government Tenders.

Mentorship

Carefully selected mentors with industry-specific knowledge, who provide hands-on support and valuable introductions.

Solution Pitching

1:1 matchmaking with government agencies and exclusive opportunities to present your solutions directly to various Government agencies and smart cities in India

Key Benefits

1

Market & Regulatory Structures

Gain insights into the Indian market dynamics & navigate regulatory landscapes with ease.

2

Tailored Marketing & Product Strategies

Develop customized strategies to effectively position & promote your products in the Indian market.

3

Relationship with Indian Bureaucrats

Build valuable connections with key government officials to facilitate smoother business operations.

4

Demystifying the Procurement Labyrinth

Simplify the complex procurement processes to streamline your access to government contracts and tenders.

5

Unprecedented Access to Key Decision-Makers

Engage directly with influential decision-makers to drive strategic partnerships and opportunities.

6

Collaborative Project Co-Creation and Development

Partner with local stakeholders to co-create and refine projects, ensuring alignment with market needs.

7

Advanced Technology Support

Leverage cutting-edge technology and innovation to enhance your solutions and competitive edge.

8

Funding Opportunities

Access various funding sources and financial support to accelerate your growth and expansion in India.

9

Market Entry and Expansion Guidance

Receive expert advice on entering and scaling in the Indian market, optimizing your growth potential.

10

Customized Business Mentorship

Benefit from personalized mentoring to navigate challenges and capitalize on opportunities effectively.

11

Networking with Industry Leaders

Connect with industry veterans and peers to share insights, experiences, and best practices.

12

Comprehensive Training and Workshops

Participate in specialized training sessions to develop skills and knowledge crucial for your startup’s success.

Entry Criteria

Startups should offer tech solutions addressing waste management, sustainable development, or circular economy challenges.
Products should be launched, have live users, and demonstrate tangible market traction.
The program welcomes startups led by founders from diverse backgrounds, promoting an inclusive environment.
Startups should have established operations and a clear execution roadmap.
A well-defined business model with clear revenue streams and market strategy is essential.
The product or service should have the potential for successful expansion into the Indian market.
The startup must exhibit a cohesive team dynamic with complementary skills and effective collaboration.
Founders and key team members should show a strong commitment to actively engage in all aspects of the accelerator program.
The team must demonstrate both the drive and the capability to tackle and scale within the vast Indian market.

Course Structure

Week -1

Program Kickoff and Overview

Activity 1: Welcome and Introduction to the Accelerator Program

Activity 2: Overview of Indian Public Procurement Processes

Activity 3: Introduction to Stakeholder Engagement and Market Research

Week -2

Procurement Basics

Activity 1: Understanding RFPs and Tender Documents

Activity 2: Detailed Review of Tendering Procedures and Submission Process

Workshop: Preparing a Bid Proposal (Part 1)

Week -3

Bid Preparation

Workshop: Preparing a Bid Proposal (Part 2)

Activity 1: Q&A Session with Procurement Experts

Activity 2: Feedback and Refinement of Bid Proposals

Week -4

Stakeholder Mapping and Market Research

Activity 1: Completion of Stakeholder Mapping

Activity 2: Initial Market Research Reports

Milestone: Completion of Stakeholder Mapping and Initial Market Research Reports

Week -5

Market Analysis and Entry Strategies

Activity 1: Introduction to Market Analysis and Entry Strategies

Activity 2: Understanding the Indian Waste Management Ecosystem

Week -6

Regulatory and Compliance

Activity 1: Overview of Regulatory and Compliance Requirements

Workshop: Market Entry Strategies (Part 1)

Week -7

Strategy Refinement

Workshop: Market Entry Strategies (Part 2)

Activity 1: Refine Market Entry Strategies Based on Feedback & Case Studies

Week -8

Project Scoping and Proposal Development

Activity 1: Project Scoping for Smart City Initiatives

Activity 2: Assist in Proposal Development Aligned with Local Market Demands

Week -9/h2>

Preparation for In-Person Visits and Final Pitch

Activity 1: Preparation for In-Person Visits to Smart City Projects

Activity 2: Finalizing Project Pitches and Presentation Materials

Week -10

Presentation Preparation

Activity 1: Rehearse Final Presentations with Feedback from Mentors