What are the exact dates for the accelerator ?

The Craft Catapult is a six-month accelerator programme, from September 2019 to March 2020. Applications would be open from the 10th of September till the 25th of September, 2019. Please visit the programme section on our website to know the timeline of the programme.

Who can apply and what is the application process ?

Any innovative craft start-up that is at MVP/ revenue/ growth stage and working on any part of the craft value chain can apply for the programme. Application link is - https://www.f6s.com/thecraftcatpult/apply Startups will need to complete the application form on F6S.

What is the deadline for submitting the application ?

8th of October 2019 would be the last day to submit the applications.

How do we get our application results ?

The results will be announced on our website on the 15th of October 2019. Our team would be actively communicating with the startups in the meanwhile.

What is an ideal start-up for The Craft Catapult ?

An ideal startup should possess the following characteristics. It should be Disruptive, Profitable, Marketable, Unique, Scalable and Tech Adaptable.

How do you choose which companies to accept into the program and to fund ?

There is a very transparent process that will be followed. Post application date, there will be a committee comprising of industry experts, that will evaluate the start-ups. Funding depends on your ability to convince the investors and partners on the Demo Day, scheduled for March 2020, though TCC team will closely work with start-ups.

Do I need to stay in Jaipur throughout the program ?

No, there will be in total six contact sessions each of two days and Demo Day sessions where you must be with us. (Refer to the Programmes section on our website), co-founders should be able to attend the sessions in person.

Our startup has already received or need no funding, are we still qualified to apply ?

Yes, this does not affect your application in any way. Our endeavour is to help you in orbit change of your start-up, via an intervention in the following areas - business strategy, financial modelling, technology, market access, design & marketing, supply-chain, legal/IP, communication, funding, etc.

Can I attend the program remotely ?

No, In-person participation is required for all the contact sessions.

My company isn’t incorporated yet. Am I still eligible to apply ?

We would prefer a registered for-profit company to apply, but if you think you have a disruptive solution, though not yet registered as an entity may apply. Though you will have to get registered immediately.

Do you sign Non Disclosure Agreements ?

No, we do not and we do not share the application/idea with any third party.

Are you looking for particular stage companies ?

Preference would be given to companies which are in Revenue/Growth stage but if you have an innovative or disruptive idea, please go ahead and apply

Is the program for sponsored ?

Yes, the programme is completely sponsored by Government of India. Though we demand commitment of your time as per the schedule of the program, for you to be able to optimize the learning from the curriculum.

What does 'acceleration' mean ?

TCC is an acceleration program focusing on growth-stage businesses in the craft sector, where the market has been sussed out to a good extent and the relevant product/ service created and validated.

How will my business benefit via TCC? What kind of changes will I see in my business post the program ?

Based on the specifications and realities of your business, the assistance from TCC will take your enterprise to the next level via intensive orientation across the following : Business and Financial Modeling, design and product development, marketing, production efficiencies, optimizing promotion, both online and offline, use of technology as an optimal enabler for the above functions

Is TCC only for social impact startups? What if that is not a part of my organizational mandate ?

TCC is aimed at overall enterprise advancement and growth, in favour of the overall craft eco-system of the country. The aim is to position craft as a leading sector not only in the start-up eco-system but also beyond it. Social and environmental impact go hand in hand with any craft start-up. We encourage any commercial start-up to apply for the programme, that has sensibilities towards all their stakeholders/partners in the industry, including artisans.

Can we get connected with craft organizations which Startup Oasis has supported in the past ?

Yes, we connect you with craft businesses which have been empowered via Startup Oasis’ other programmes. You will get to meet most of them.

Can you connect us to markets and designers ?

Yes, we will help you to optimize current customer segments, find new ones if required, tailor relevant product offers which can be effectively brought to them via online and offline marketing platforms.