If you dream of launching a tech startup but are held back by financial constraints, the Government of India has a perfect solution. The Atal Community Innovation Centre (ACIC), especially its branch in Meerut, is transforming the entrepreneurial landscape by offering full financial and infrastructural support to young and aspiring innovators.
Whether you’re a school dropout, a student, or a senior citizen with a unique idea, ACIC is open to all. Here’s everything you need to know about the initiative and how to get started.
What is the Atal Community Innovation Centre (ACIC)?
ACIC is a government-backed initiative designed to foster innovation and entrepreneurship in underserved regions. Operated under the Atal Innovation Mission (AIM) of NITI Aayog, the centre aims to identify promising tech ideas and turn them into functional startups.
Located at MIET (Meerut Institute of Engineering and Technology) in Uttar Pradesh, this ACIC hub has already supported numerous innovators from various districts including Gorakhpur, Varanasi, Bahraich, and Mirzapur.
What Support Does the Govt Provide Through ACIC?
Prashant Kumar Gupta, Coordinator of ACIC at MIET, explained in an exclusive interview with Local18 that:
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All project expenses are covered by the centre
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Innovators receive free accommodation and food
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Mentorship and technical support are provided
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Innovators get a platform to showcase their ideas
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No restriction based on age or educational background
Whether you’re a dropout with a big idea or a retiree with a solution to a real-world problem, ACIC welcomes everyone with a genuine passion for innovation.
How Can You Apply to Launch Your Startup at ACIC?
The process to be part of the ACIC innovation ecosystem is quite simple:
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Contact the ACIC Centre: Reach out to ACIC Meerut or any nearby ACIC hubs across India.
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Submit Your Idea: Pitch your startup concept or innovative project.
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Project Evaluation: The idea will be evaluated based on practicality, innovation, and impact.
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Approval & Onboarding: If approved, you will receive full support to develop and launch your startup.
Currently, many projects under development at ACIC Meerut have even received praise and recognition from NITI Aayog, reflecting the quality and impact of work happening at the centre.
Who Can Apply?
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Any Indian citizen regardless of educational qualification
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People of any age group
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School and college students, graduates, job seekers, retirees
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Individuals with problem-solving tech ideas
Why ACIC is a Game-Changer for Indian Innovators
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Promotes inclusive entrepreneurship by breaking educational barriers
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Offers financial and logistic aid to underprivileged innovators
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Creates a culture of problem-solving and innovation
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Bridges the gap between raw talent and industry opportunities
By removing the financial roadblocks that often hold back visionary ideas, ACIC empowers innovators to turn concepts into impactful startups.
FAQs
Who can apply to ACIC for startup support?
Any Indian citizen, regardless of education or age, can apply if they have a tech-based or innovative solution.
Is there any fee to join ACIC?
No. ACIC offers support free of cost, including accommodation, food, and mentorship.
Do I need a degree to apply?
Not at all. School dropouts, self-learners, or even the elderly are welcome as long as they have a viable idea.
Where is the ACIC located?
The ACIC featured here is at MIET, Meerut (Uttar Pradesh), but there are other centres across India under the same scheme.
How does ACIC help after approval?
ACIC funds your project, provides space, technical support, and mentors to help you develop your startup.
How can I contact ACIC Meerut?
You can visit the MIET website or search for ACIC MIET Meerut on Google to access contact details and application procedures.
Click here to know more.
Aanchal is a passionate writer with a keen interest in storytelling, content creation, and creative expression. She enjoys exploring diverse topics and crafting engaging narratives that captivate readers.