Pre Incubation Program on
Water and Sanitation
Program Overview
IIITB Innovation Centre proposes a 3-month Pre incubation program focused on water and sanitation.
The program will identify and nurture early stage startups developing solutions across water and sanitation-linked domains. Startups will benefit from IIITB’s research-driven ecosystem and customized Pre incubation program.
Successful teams may transition into a 24-month incubation program focused on achieving product/market fit and scaling, with access to funding opportunities.
Program Structure: Based on Lean Methodology
Phase 1 – Problem–Solution Fit This phase focuses on helping startups validate their core problem statement and align it with a viable solution framework using lean principles.
Key Focus Areas
Business Model Design/Fine tuning
BMC using Lean canvas
Problem/Solution Fit
Stress testing Biz Model, Biz Model Story Pitch
Optional Areas of startup skillsets
Legal, Finance, IP, Raising Funds, Sales & Marketing
Solution/Customer Fit
Customer Problem Fit, Solution design & offer Pitching / Demonstrating mafia offer to early adopter customers for buy in
Themes
Smart water management and distribution networks
AI/IoT-based leak detection and real-time monitoring systems
Affordable purification, desalination, and filtration technologies
Decentralized wastewater treatment and recycling solutions
Smart toilets and sanitation infrastructure for rural & urban ecosystems
Digital platforms for water quality monitoring and community reporting
Key Takeaways
Define and understand customer persona
Build and validate business model
Proof of concept refinement
Access to a strong network of corporates, and tech adopters
Pitch refinement and connects to potential investors
Mentorship from domain and industry experts
Mentor Panel
Dr. Chaya Ravishankar
Innovation Strategist, Capgemini India Pvt. Ltd
Mr. Raveendra Bhatt
Area Sales Director, WU INDO Region, Grundfos
Mr. Nandakumar
CEO – International Centre for Clean Water, ICCW, IIT Chennai
Mr. Anshul Trivedi
Business transformation lead, Accenture
Mr. Prasanna Jogdeo
South Asia operations Manager, International Water Association, IWA
Mr. Kumara Guru
Sustainability Manager, Diageo India
Timeline
Applications open
Dec, 2025
Applications close
Jan, 2026
Cohort Selection
week 2 Jan, 2026
Program Kick off
Week 3 Jan, 2026
Demo Day
Mar, 2026
Program Partner
FAQs
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Should I have my startup company formally registered when I apply?
No, you need not have registered when you apply.
Is there a program fee for Atom pre incubation program?
Yes, there is a program fee of ₹15,000 for the ATOM Pre-Incubation Program. This fee is to be paid to the IIITB Innovation Centre prior to the start of the program.
Is the program conducted online or in-person?
The program is conducted online. However, startup founders from Bangalore can opt for in-person one-on-one sessions for their post workshop interactions based on their preference.
I am in the middle of developing my MVP. Is the program suitable for my stage?
Yes, the program will be able to help you in case you have not followed the three-step process of this program or you are looking for guidance in refining them.
Is there a grant or fund provided as part of this program?
No, this pre-incubation program does not offer any grant or fund. However, if you are selected for our follow-on twelve-month incubation program, you will have access to grants and other financial support directly from IIITB Innovation Centre.
IIIT Bangalore Innovation Centre 26/C, Hosur Rd, Electronics City Phase 1, Electronic City, Bengaluru, Karnataka 560100
For further queries, Contact Incubation Manager: programs-innovation@iiitb.ac.in | Phone: 080 41407777