B2B-focused early‑stage venture capital firm Capital‑A has teamed with deeptech ecosystem platform SanchiConnect to unveil MaXcel, an accelerator built for early-stage startups and MSMEs working in the manufacturing and allied sectors.
The accelerator will support startups operating in precision manufacturing, advanced materials, semiconductors, IoT, frugal industrial automation, robotics, smart factory technologies, and hardware-software integration, particularly those with minimum viable product (MVPs), pilot traction, or early revenue.
Fast funding and hands‑on help
Shortlisted startups will receive Rs 3 crore to Rs 4 crore in “fast‑track” capital, with term sheets promised within 30 days.
Over 24 weeks, founders will go through a 12‑week go‑to‑market module, tap corporate pilot opportunities, and pitch at an offshore demo day. They will also get one‑on‑one mentoring from industry veterans.
Leadership comments
“We are thrilled about MaXcel and its potential to catalyse the next wave of innovation, that will come from the shop floors, factories, and industrial corridors of India. Capital‑A’s deep manufacturing experience, along with SanchiConnect’s widespread access to the ecosystem, MaXcel will serve as a launchpad for founders building in the sunrise manufacturing sector,” said Ankit Kedia, founder and lead investor at Capital‑A.
“With MaXcel, we aim to provide meaningful support to founders working on manufacturing‑led innovation. The combination of sector‑specific funding and tailored ecosystem access will help startups address real industry needs,” Kedia added.
Co‑founder Dr Sunil Shekhawat of SanchiConnect called the tie‑up a bold rethink of how hardware ideas reach the shop floor. “This collaboration is about reimagining what’s possible when innovation meets execution. MaXcel isn’t just a program but a catalyst for the next generation of industrial leaders,” he said.
Application deadline
Applications for MaXcel are open until May 10, 2025. To raise awareness, MaXcel will host a multi-city roadshow across India, visiting innovation hubs such as Bengaluru, Pune, Ahmedabad, Indore, Guwahati, Coimbatore, Kochi, and Noida.
