TATA Social Enterprise Challenge 2025 by TATA Sons & IIM Calcutta – National Social Entrepreneurship Competition with Mentorship & Seed Funding

The TATA Social Enterprise Challenge (TSEC) is a prestigious initiative jointly organized by TATA Sons and the Indian Institute of Management Calcutta (IIM Calcutta). This national-level challenge aims to discover India’s most promising social enterprises, raise awareness about social entrepreneurship, and encourage the youth to become the next generation of social entrepreneurs.

This opportunity is ideal for social entrepreneurs who either have an early-stage venture or an idea with a proof of concept. The challenge focuses on creating sustainable business models that make a positive social impact. Whether your venture is for-profit, not-for-profit, or a hybrid model, TSEC welcomes all kinds of ideas and enterprises.

Eligibility Criteria

To apply for the TATA Social Enterprise Challenge, participants must meet the following eligibility criteria:

• Team Composition: Each team can have a maximum of two members.

• Nationality: Applicants may or may not be Indian nationals, but the social venture must aim to create a social impact in India.

• Venture/Idea Type:

  • If submitting an idea, a proof of concept (e.g., a prototype) is required.

  • If submitting a venture, it must not have been in existence for more than four years.

• Age & Background: There are no specific restrictions on the age or background of applicants.

• Previous Participation: Enterprises selected as semi-finalists in previous editions of the challenge are not eligible to apply again.

• Business Sectors: Business plans from all sectors will be considered.

• International Entries: International teams are welcome, but they will not be eligible for seed funding or incubation support.

• Seed Funding & Incubation: Only enterprises based in India will qualify for the chance to pitch for seed funding and incubation support at IIM Calcutta.

Program Details

Overview:
The TATA Social Enterprise Challenge provides an opportunity for social entrepreneurs to gain mentorship, funding, and business support. Selected teams will be invited to participate in a three-week mentorship program, including sessions at IIM Calcutta’s campus.

• Program Duration:

  • The mentorship program lasts for three weeks.

  • Seed funding of up to Rs 1 Crore is available, subject to due diligence and investment criteria.

  • Teams will have the chance to pitch for funding and incubation support at IIM Calcutta’s Innovation Park.

• Support Provided:

  • Mentorship from renowned social entrepreneurs.

  • Funding from India’s biggest social venture funds.

  • Incubation at IIM Calcutta’s Innovation Park.

  • Capacity Building Programs, including knowledge sessions, pilot/market connections, and collaboration opportunities.

Important Dates

• Launch Date: 15 February 2025

• Registration Opens: 17 February 2025

• Last Date for Applications: 30 April 2025

• Announcement of Shortlisted Candidates: 15 June 2025

• Regional Round: 01 – 30 July 2025

• Grand Finale & Summit: 14 – 15 September 2025

How to Apply

1. Application Process:

   • Submit a detailed Impact Proposal outlining your social enterprise or idea.

   • Shortlisted teams will be invited for the three-week mentorship program at IIM Calcutta.

2. Application Portal:

   • To apply, visit the official TATA Social Enterprise Challenge Application Portal.

Why Should You Apply?

The TATA Social Enterprise Challenge is a unique opportunity for social entrepreneurs to gain recognition, support, and funding. If you have a social venture that is making a difference, or an idea that has the potential to create a lasting social impact, this is the perfect platform to take your venture to the next level. With access to expert mentorship, seed funding, and incubation support, TSEC offers a comprehensive growth package for emerging social enterprises.

Don’t miss the opportunity to scale your social venture and create lasting change. Apply now for the TATA Social Enterprise Challenge and be part of India’s next generation of social entrepreneurs!

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