Entrepreneurship Development by SC & ST Women in STEM - Kerala
The Entrepreneurship Development by SC & ST Women in Science, Technology, Engineering and Mathematics (ED–SC/ST–WiSTEM) scheme is implemented in Kerala by the Kerala State Council for Science, Technology and Environment (KSCSTE) under the Government of Kerala. The scheme is operational during the current plan period as per government approvals. It aims to encourage SC and ST women with STEM qualifications to become entrepreneurs by supporting technology-based ideas and innovations. The scheme helps women overcome social and financial barriers and supports them in converting scientific knowledge into sustainable enterprises and self-employment opportunities.
Key Features
- Exclusive Scheme for SC & ST Women with STEM Background: The scheme is specifically designed for women belonging to Scheduled Castes and Scheduled Tribes who have educational qualifications in science, technology, engineering, or mathematics, ensuring targeted inclusion in Kerala’s innovation ecosystem.
- Financial Assistance for Technology-Based Project: Selected beneficiaries receive financial support to develop and implement technology-oriented entrepreneurial ideas, reducing the financial risk during the early stages of enterprise creation.
- Support for Prototype Development and Proof of Concept: The scheme allows the use of funds for developing prototypes, validating ideas, and demonstrating technical feasibility, which is essential before commercial launch.
- Mentoring, Training, and Institutional Handholding: Beneficiaries receive structured mentoring, entrepreneurship training, and continuous guidance from experts and institutions associated with the scheme to strengthen business and technical capabilities.
- Implementation through Recognised Institutions: The scheme is implemented through approved academic, research, and innovation institutions in Kerala that manage selection, monitoring, and support of beneficiaries.
- Focus on Innovation and Commercialisation: The scheme encourages innovation-driven enterprises rather than routine business activities, with emphasis on applying scientific knowledge to real-world problems.
Financial Assistance
Eligibility Criteria
Who can apply:
- Be a woman belonging to Scheduled Caste or Scheduled Tribe
- Be a resident of Kerala
- Possess educational qualification in Science, Technology, Engineering, or Mathematics
- Have a technology-based or innovation-oriented business idea
- Be willing to start or formalise an enterprise under the scheme
- Work with or through a recognised implementing institution
Who cannot apply:
- Male applicants
- Applicants without STEM educational background
- Non-technology or purely trading business proposals
Documents Required
- Aadhaar Card
- SC or ST Caste Certificate
- Proof of Kerala residency
- Educational Qualification Certificates (STEM)
- Detailed Project Proposal
- Bank Account Details
Application Process for the Scheme
Option 1: Apply with Bullit (Recommended)
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Option 2: Apply via KSCSTE (Official Process)
- Visit the KSCSTE official portal and check the active notification for ED–SC/ST WiSTEM.
- Download and review the guidelines/application format.
- Prepare a detailed proposal outlining the technology idea, innovation component, and business potential.
- Submit the application online/offline as prescribed in the notification before the deadline.
- Applications undergo expert committee evaluation.
- Selected candidates are enrolled in the EDP and provided grant/mentoring support.
Power Combo with the scheme
