GURUKUL Launched to Empower Craft-Focused Textile Startups
In a powerful collaboration, Catalyst AIC, an impact-focused startup accelerator initiated by the Institute for Financial Management and Research (IFMR), has partnered with Aadyam Handwoven, a social initiative by the Aditya Birla Group, to launch GURUKUL — an accelerator program for emerging entrepreneurs in the textile and craft space.
In a powerful collaboration, Catalyst AIC, an impact-focused startup accelerator initiated by the Institute for Financial Management and Research (IFMR), has partnered with Aadyam Handwoven, a social initiative by the Aditya Birla Group, to launch GURUKUL — an accelerator program for emerging entrepreneurs in the textile and craft space.
Participants will receive exclusive mentorship from the leadership of Aadyam Handwoven, alongside funding opportunities and strategic business support offered through Catalyst AIC’s network.
Mr. Manish Saksena, Business Head at Aadyam Handwoven, stated:
“There is a strong resurgence & interest in the handloom sector. It is seeing an unprecedented amount of investment & effort in the startup industry. For any such initiative to succeed it’s important to get the strategic thought right. We have joined hands with Catalyst AIC to identify and mentor the startups that have their heart in the right place along with a business acumen to create scalable impact and create benchmarks for a sustainable business in the handloom sector.”
Mr. Deepanshu Khandelwal, CEO of Catalyst AIC, added:
“At Catalyst AIC, we have consistently and steadfastly supported mission-driven startups that aim to create deep social and economic impact among Indian last mile communities… With Gurukul, we are bringing this experience to the craft, textile, and handloom sectors — providing early-stage entrepreneurs with tailored mentorship, access to seed funding, and go-to-market opportunities…”
Why GURUKUL?
India is one of the top five global exporters in the craft and handmade sectors. The country’s craft market is projected to grow to $7.8 billion by 2032, with a CAGR of 6.9%. GURUKUL was conceptualized to meet this growing demand by nurturing craft-driven businesses with targeted mentorship, financial support, and market linkages.
The three-month program will provide:
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One-on-one mentorship with industry experts
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Business development support, including branding, market strategy, customer engagement, and competitive positioning
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A robust curriculum covering entrepreneurship, design thinking, financial planning, and marketing
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Access to seed funding through the Catalyst Seed Fund and exposure to investor networks
The program also includes product pilot opportunities, integrating global fashion trends with traditional Indian design, while emphasizing long-term vision and sustainable scale.