STUDENT MICRO-GRANTS
Big ideas start with you.
We help students turn promising ideas into real projects with funding of up to $500 — whether it's a new app, a research idea, a creative project, or a community initiative.
You don't need a finished product. Just a clear idea and a plan.
Your idea matters ✦
Program snapshot
Program overviewIdeas are worth investing in.
A quick look at the program's current headline figures.
Applications must be submitted by 30 November. Make sure your application is complete before the deadline.
Students building what's next
Good ideas grow when people get to work.
From early sketches to experiments and prototypes, every project starts with a first step.
Collaborate
Plan the idea
Make a prototype
Build with tech
Learn together
Share progress
Keep exploringA research-minded approach
Curiosity belongs everywhere.
India's research and innovation ecosystem, including institutions such as the Indian Institute of Science (IISc) Bengaluru, shows what curiosity and sustained experimentation can make possible. StudentBuild Grants encourages students to take their own first steps: define a problem, plan a realistic budget, and learn by building.
StudentBuild Grants is an independent initiative and is not affiliated with or endorsed by IISc Bengaluru.
What we do
Small grants. Real possibilities.
We support student-led projects with funding of up to $500 to help turn early ideas into something real. Your background or field of interest shouldn't stop you from trying.
Apps, websites, and useful digital tools.
Experiments, prototypes, and exploration.
Design, media, art, and storytelling.
Ideas that help people around you.
Electronics, devices, and hands-on builds.
Have another idea? We want to hear it.
Why we do it
Talent is everywhere. Opportunity should be, too.
Students often have the curiosity to solve real problems, but lack the resources to get started. A small grant can pay for materials, software, tools, or a first prototype that turns a plan into progress.
How it works
From idea to action, in four steps.
A straightforward process designed to help students focus on building.
1
Submit your idea
Tell us what you want to build, why it matters, and what you need.
2
We review
We look at your plan, budget, feasibility, and potential impact.
3
Get funded
Selected students may receive funding under the program's terms.
4
Build & share
Bring your idea to life and share what you learn.
How grant funding is received
Funding that can move with your project.
We aim to keep the funding process flexible, based on each approved project's needs and the student's financial situation. Depending on the agreed arrangement, support may be provided in either of two ways.
Before funding begins: The approved amount, payment or reimbursement schedule, eligible expenses, and required supporting documents will be agreed with the student. Funding is intended only for the approved project and its associated expenses. These arrangements are subject to review and are not automatic.
Our aim is simple: a lack of upfront resources should not prevent a student from developing a worthwhile idea. Read the grant terms for more details.
Ideas can start anywhere
What could you build?
Examples of projects a student grant could help make possible.
A low-cost science prototype
Build and test a working prototype with affordable components.
A tool that solves a problem
Create an app or website for a need in your school or community.
A community-led idea
Make learning, access, or everyday life a little better for others.
FAQs
Good questions to ask.
Who can apply?
Applicants should submit a clear project idea, a realistic budget, and an explanation of what they hope to achieve.
Do I need to have already built my project?
No. You can apply with an early-stage idea if you explain what you want to build and how you would use the funding.
Does every applicant receive funding?
No. Funding is limited and applications are reviewed against published criteria. Only selected applicants receive grants.
How will I receive the grant?
Depending on your circumstances and the approved arrangement, funding may be provided as reimbursement after you complete the project and submit eligible expense records, or in smaller instalments as you reach development stages. The amount, schedule, and documentation requirements will be agreed before funding begins. See the funding options for details.
What can the grant pay for?
Funding is intended for expenses directly associated with the approved project. Eligible costs and any supporting documentation will be confirmed before funding begins.
Innovation ecosystem
Connected to a wider culture of building.
StudentBuild Grants sits within an ecosystem that values research, entrepreneurship and practical technology. The organisations below are part of the innovation landscape we look to and are connected with.
Foundation for Science Innovation and Development (FSID)
FSID works to translate research and scientific knowledge into innovation, entrepreneurship and real-world impact.
Visit FSID website ↗AI & Robotics Technology Park (ARTPARK)
ARTPARK supports the development and application of AI and robotics through research, innovation and collaboration.
Visit ARTPARK website ↗StudentBuild Grants is an independent student-focused initiative. Mention of these organisations describes our stated ecosystem connections and should not be read as an endorsement, sponsorship or funding commitment unless separately confirmed by the organisations.
Questions about applying?
Speak to the StudentBuild team.
For application support, eligibility questions or help understanding the funding process, contact us directly.
Application supporthelp@studentbuild.xyzWe aim to respond to genuine enquiries as soon as possible. Please do not email identity documents or sensitive files.
Ready to turn your idea into a project?
Take the first step. Tell us what you'd like to build.