Crafts Business Accelerator Program 2027

AIM OF THE PROGRAM

The Crafts Business Accelerator Program 2027 helps early-stage craft entrepreneurs build the business skills they need to start, grow, and sustain their enterprises. Participants receive structured guidance and mentoring from IICD faculty, industry experts, and sector leaders, creating a supportive ecosystem for Indian crafts at national and international levels.

PROGRAM INFORMATION

The Indian Institute of Crafts & Design (IICD) works to strengthen India’s craft ecosystem by bringing together design, business, and social impact. Design education in India has traditionally focused on skill development, design innovation, and technology, but it rarely offers structured support for starting and scaling craft- or design-based enterprises.

Many aspiring entrepreneurs, including artisans, young designers, recent graduates, and homemakers, have strong ideas and quality products. Yet they are held back by limited business knowledge, financial literacy, mentorship, and market access. The Crafts Business Accelerator Program addresses these gaps through a structured, practice-oriented model.

Designed for early-stage craft enterprises, the program runs in a hybrid format across three modules, combining online sessions with on-campus learning and immersive experiences. Participants gain practical business tools, strategic insight, and access to a wider ecosystem, helping them build enterprises that are competitive, sustainable, and socially impactful.

PROGRAM DURATION

• Total Duration: Total Duration: 28 structured sessions (Offline and Online) spread over Five months
• Mentorship Duration: Mentorship Duration: Three months of one-on-one mentorship supportz

PROGRAM OVERVIEW

The Crafts Business Accelerator Program follows a hybrid structure, combining online learning with in-person learning and field immersions.

PROGRAM FORMAT

• Weekly online sessions (3 hours per week)
• Three-day on-campus induction program at IICD Jaipur
• Three-day mid-program academic engagement at IIM Udaipur
• Three-day concluding immersion program at Jaipur/Delhi/Mumbai
• Continuous one-on-one mentorship throughout the programme

PEDAGOGICAL APPROACH

• Hybrid learning model
• Expert-led sessions
• Hands-on workshops
• Field visits and market exposure
• Individual mentorship

The programme is designed to provide participants with actionable learning, real-world exposure, and strategic guidance to build sustainable and scalable craft enterprises.

SEATS

Maximum intake of 25 participants

ELIGIBILITY

• Early-stage entrepreneurs operating businesses in the craft sector
• Applicants aspiring to create positive social and community impact through craft-based enterprises
• Special emphasis on women entrepreneurs and artisan-led enterprises
• Working knowledge of English is required

EVALUATION

The evaluation of the proposal will be done by a selection committee on the basis of the following evaluation criteria;

EVALUATION CRITERIA

All applications will undergo a thorough review process led by a dedicated selection panel. This panel will carefully evaluate each application, paying close attention to the following specific criteria that have been outlined for the program's selection process.

• • Craft Product Range and Domain Expertise

Within this category, we will evaluate the distinctive qualities of the product and its range, as well as the depth of expertise within the craft domain. Additionally, any notable interventions related to the product or range will be considered during the assessment.

• • Sustainability and social impact

In this section, we will delve into the sustainability and social impact aspects of the applicants' craft businesses. This evaluation will include an examination of the strategies and practices in place to ensure the long-term sustainability of the business. Additionally, we will assess how the business contributes to social impact within its community or target audience, taking into consideration factors such as job creation, local empowerment, and environmental responsibility.

• • Strength and viability of the business

Under this category, the evaluation will focus on the overall strength and viability of the applicants' craft-based businesses. This assessment will consider various factors, including the business's financial stability, growth potential, market positioning, and competitive advantage. We will analyze how well the business is positioned to thrive in the long term and its ability to adapt to changing market conditions and challenges. This assessment aims to gauge the overall robustness of the business and its potential for sustained success.

• • Founders and team profile

In this section, we will assess the founders and the team behind the craft business. This evaluation will consider the qualifications, experience, and expertise of the founders and key team members. We will also look at their roles and responsibilities within the business, as well as their ability to collaborate and drive the venture forward. The founders' and team members' profiles will play a crucial role in determining the strength and potential of the business, as they are often the driving force behind its success.

Applications that score below 50% will not undergo further evaluation.
Applicants achieving a score of 50% or higher will be invited for a personal interview.

PROGRAM FEE

• For craft-based entrepreneurs: ₹50,000
• For artisan entrepreneurs: ₹15,000
• Payable as a one-time payment at the start of the program. Detailed instructions for fee payment will be provided by the program management.

Please note that the fee is non-refundable if a participant voluntarily withdraws from the program before its completion or if the management decides to discontinue the participant’s enrolment.

APPLICATION PROCEDURE

• The one-time non-refundable application fee is ₹500.
• Individuals interested in applying are requested to complete the application form by clicking the “Apply Now” link below.