Community Innovator Fellowship
The clearest expression of why this centre exists — support for innovators the formal ecosystem was never built to reach.
What the Fellowship is
A one-year intensive fellowship for grassroots innovators across coastal Karnataka — farmers, fisherfolk, artisans, students and first-time builders — who have a real problem worth solving but no access to workspace, mentoring or fabrication tools. An initiative of Atal Innovation Mission, NITI Aayog in collaboration with UNDP India, hosted at ACIC Sahyadri.
What a Fellow receives
Eligibility
If you have a problem worth solving and the will to work on it, you are eligible. The Fellowship is open to any aspiring community innovator irrespective of socio-economic background. Age 18–35 years. At least a bachelor's, diploma or degree holder in any discipline from a recognized university. Residential address within 30 km of ACIC Sahyadri — fellows from outside the region may be enrolled with a mandate of completing certain community hours and ACIC hours. English language proficiency at intermediate level; applicants not meeting this level can be supported by a 'Buddy' and through training and workshops as part of the fellowship. Formal qualifications beyond this are explicitly not required — no registered company, no prior funding.
Selection process
- 1
Call for Application & Screening
Submit a short written or spoken description of the problem and your idea — English or Kannada. Applications are screened by the programme team.
- 2
Shortlist Announcement
Shortlisted candidates are announced and invited for the next stage.
- 3
Presentation & Interview
Shortlisted applicants present their idea and attend an informal discussion with our selection committee, in person or by phone.
- 4
Final Selection
The committee confirms the final list of Fellows for the cohort.
- 5
Declaration of Results & Onboarding
Results are declared and Fellows are onboarded ahead of the cohort start date. The fellowship runs for one year, structured into 5 phases with ongoing support from the ACIC team, mentors and AIM.
Current cohort
Applications open soon — next intake date to be announced.
Meet the Fellows
Fellow profiles will be added as the first cohort completes and provides consent to share their stories.
FAQs
Do I need a degree or registered business to apply?
No. The Fellowship is built specifically for innovators without formal qualifications or a registered company.
Can I apply in Kannada?
Yes. Applications are accepted in English or Kannada.
Is there a fee to apply?
No. There is no cost to apply for the Fellowship.
What is the fellowship duration?
The Fellowship runs for one year, structured into 5 phases with different objectives and outcomes.
How much funding does a Fellow receive?
Each Fellow receives a total grant of up to ₹2,00,000 as per the recommendation of the board committee's timely assessment.
Can I apply if I live outside the 30 km radius?
Yes. Fellows from outside the ACIC's geographical region may be enrolled with a mandate of completing certain community hours and ACIC hours.