What You Will Learn:
Module 1: Idea Validation & Co-founder Discovery
Self-Introspection | Team Building | Consumer Behaviour | Networking with Mentors & Peers.
Module 2: Problem & Market Validation
Problem Validation | Customer Discovery | BMC Basics
Module 3: Building your MVP
Customer & Market Validation | Business Model Canvas | Building a frugal MVP
Module 4: Working on Early Traction
1:1 Mentorship | A/B Testing | Market Experiments | Operations Model | Business Model
Module 5: Pitch & Financials Preparation
Financial Modeling | Unit Economics | Pitch Deck Preparation
Module 6: Investment Week
Pitch to the Investors | Raise upto ₹1 Crore | Get Incubated
500+
100+
100 cr+
Meet Your Mentor
Ajay Rungta
Startup Mentor | Angel Investor
With over 15 years of extensive experience in the tech industry, Ajay Rungta is a seasoned professional with a remarkable track record. As the Founding Engineer at Practo, he dedicated over 11 years to driving its growth and success. In his current role as a solopreneur, Ajay wears multiple hats as a startup advisor, mentor, angel investor, and super connector.
He passionately collaborates with founders, offering invaluable guidance and support throughout their startup journey. Ajay's expertise extends to mentorship roles at various incubators and accelerators, where he provides anchor mentoring, conducts pitch reviews, evaluates cohorts, serves on grants juries, and delivers enriching masterclasses.
Who Is This Program For?
If you’re an early stage startup founder and feel stuck with your idea due to a lack of guidance and mentorship, you’re welcome at 18startup.
Note: The program fee is ₹24,999/- (Incl. GST) and is kicking off virtually from 24th June, 2026.
Learn From Investors & Mentors
Prakash Balasubramanian
Ajay Rungta
Rudrajeet Desai
Dharmesh Mehta
Pranav Kay
Manoj Badagharwala
Swatantra Verma
Satyam Kumar
Atul Prakash
Listen To Our Community
Simran Khandelwal
Cohort: 9
Founder: Plug in
I’ve attended multiple startup events before, but this was different. many practical activities, strategic frameworks, and a great community for founders.
Gautham Palaniswamy
Cohort: 10
Founder: Cumma
From mentorship to networking, everything felt relevant. I finally got clear on my next steps, and connected with people I still work with today.
Sidharth Lahoti
Cohort: 9
Founder: HealthVize
Before this program, I was constantly second-guessing my idea. In just 4 days, I walked out with clarity, a clear MVP plan, and connections with founders who truly get the journey.
Jayesh Jain
Cohort: 3
Founder: Avatron
I didn’t just meet mentors, I met future collaborators. The program helped me structure my startup, validate my direction, and build momentum with a real support system.
Santhosh Kumar
Cohort: 6
Founder: Spinacle
I’ve attended multiple startup events before, but this was different. many practical activities, strategic frameworks, and a great community for founders.
Misba Shah
Cohort: 3
Founder: MeetGoals
This wasn’t a lecture, it was hands-on. I got expert feedback, bonded with fellow founders, and finally understood how to build something that investors will take seriously.
The Demo Day
After the 3 month program, a virtual Demo Day will be held in front of a panel of investors and mentors. All startups participating in the program will be shortlisted to pitch their ideas and receive upto ₹1 Crore in funding.
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Next 3 Easy Steps
Submit the form. Our team will review your application and assess your compatibility with the program, and we’ll get back to you within one week.
This is an interaction with our team, where we evaluate your overall compatibility with the program and the potential value you can gain from it.
If selected & aligned, pay the fee to officially secure your seat in the cohort and be part of the 18startup Fellowship.