Funding & Investment · Ben Buzz · Dec 22, 2025

IIT Madras to Establish ₹200 Crore Venture Capital Fund for Startups

IIT Madras has announced a ₹200 crore venture capital fund to support emerging startups, particularly in Tamil Nadu, focusing on innovative technologies and solutions. Additionally, the INNOVATION-TN dashboard has been launched to offer resources and information to entrepre… This fund is expected to act as a catalyst for new ventures and drive economic growth in the region.

In a significant move to bolster the entrepreneurial ecosystem, the Indian Institute of Technology Madras (IIT Madras) has announced the launch of a ₹200 crore venture capital fund aimed at supporting emerging startups. This initiative is set to play a pivotal role in fostering innovation and supporting early-stage as well as growth-stage startups, particularly within Tamil Nadu.

Objective of the Fund

The primary goal of this venture capital fund is to provide financial assistance to startups that are focused on developing innovative technologies and solutions. By offering this support, IIT Madras seeks to enhance the startup landscape in Tamil Nadu, encouraging the development of cutting-edge products and services across a variety of sectors. This fund is expected to act as a catalyst for new ventures and drive economic growth in the region.

Collaboration with Guidance Tamil Nadu

To maximize the impact of the venture capital fund, IIT Madras is collaborating with Guidance Tamil Nadu, a government agency dedicated to promoting investment and facilitating business growth in the state. This partnership aims to create a robust startup ecosystem by providing necessary resources and guidance to budding entrepreneurs. Together, they will work toward creating a supportive environment that nurtures innovation and helps startups thrive.

Launch of the INNOVATION-TN Dashboard

As part of this initiative, IIT Madras has also introduced the INNOVATION-TN dashboard, a comprehensive platform designed to offer resources and information to startups. This dashboard will serve as a valuable tool for entrepreneurs, providing access to a wide range of resources that can assist in the development and scaling of their ventures. By facilitating access to these resources, IIT Madras aims to empower startups to overcome challenges and achieve their growth potential.

Enhancing the Startup Landscape

With the establishment of this venture capital fund, IIT Madras is reinforcing its commitment to strengthening the startup landscape in Tamil Nadu. The fund is strategically designed to support startups at various stages of their development, from early-stage ventures to those poised for growth. By focusing on fostering innovation and collaboration, IIT Madras is poised to make a significant impact on the entrepreneurial ecosystem, paving the way for a new generation of successful startups.

"The launch of this venture capital fund is a testament to IIT Madras's dedication to driving innovation and supporting the growth of startups in Tamil Nadu. By providing financial and strategic resources, the institute is creating an environment where new ideas can flourish and contribute to the region's economic development."

This strategic move by IIT Madras not only highlights the institute's role as a key player in the startup ecosystem but also underscores its commitment to advancing technological innovation across various sectors. As the venture capital fund begins to take shape, it is expected to attract a diverse array of startups, each contributing to the vibrant and dynamic business landscape of Tamil Nadu.

FAQs

What is the total size of the venture capital fund established by IIT Madras?
The total size of the venture capital fund is ₹200 crore.
What stages of startups will the fund support?
The fund will support startups at two stages: early-stage and growth-stage.
Who is collaborating with IIT Madras on this venture capital fund?
IIT Madras is collaborating with Guidance Tamil Nadu, a government agency focused on promoting investment.
What is the primary goal of the venture capital fund?
The primary goal is to provide financial assistance to startups developing innovative technologies and solutions.
What platform has IIT Madras launched to assist startups?
IIT Madras has introduced the INNOVATION-TN dashboard to offer resources and information to startups.
How does IIT Madras aim to enhance the startup landscape in Tamil Nadu?
IIT Madras aims to enhance the startup landscape by fostering innovation and providing strategic resources to startups.
What impact is IIT Madras expecting from the establishment of this fund?
IIT Madras expects the fund to act as a catalyst for new ventures and drive economic growth in the region.