MaXcel 2026 is being repositioned as a curated platform that brings together the broader manufacturing and deep tech ecosystem, including startup founders, Industry leaders, Acadamia, incubators / accelerators and investors. Through MaXcel 2026, Capital-A intends to invest approximately ₹6 -10 crore in each shortlisted startup, subject to investment evaluation and due diligence.

MaXcel is for startups solving problems in manufacturing and hardware, with core IP or technology in areas such as:

• Manufacturing- Advanced Materials, Industry 4.0 & Smart Factory, Precision Engineering
• Deep tech- Space Tech, Aerospace & Defense, Semiconductors, Robotics & Automation
• Climate tech- Battery Recycling, Battery Energy Storage Systems, Mobility, Alternate Energies
• Enterprise tech- AI & vertical SaaS, Hardware–Software Integration

More broadly, this spans Industrial Automation, IoT, Robotics, CleanTech, Embedded Systems/Edge Devices, ESDM, drones, and EV hardware components- as well as ambitious founders using a deep tech or product-led approach to solve real-world industrial challenges.

MaXcel looks for startups from Minimum Viable Product (MVP) stage where the product is ready for early customers to test and give feedback through to early-revenue stage. Startups without a working MVP or that haven’t yet piloted with early customers should hold off on applying.

No, DPIIT registration is not mandatory to apply for the MaXcel program. However, it is always beneficial for startups to register with DPIIT to avail various government benefits such as tax exemptions, easier compliance, and access to startup schemes.

For Maxcel, your startup just needs to meet the program’s eligibility criteria having an MVP, early traction (revenue/pilots/LOIs), and working in the relevant sectors.

Yes, the startup must be incorporated in India to apply.

Yes, such a startup can still apply.

Yes. Startups raising a bridge round, or that already have partial commitment from other investors, are welcome to apply - MaXcel encourages co-investment so startups have access to a larger pool of capital as they scale.

Yes, a startup that has applied to Capital-A before, or taken part in a previous MaXcel cohort, can apply again, provided there have been significant changes in the business since the last application.

No. Applications sent directly to the email address on the site, bypassing the official form, will not be considered. All applications must be submitted through the official MaXcel application portal.

The deadline is 31st August, 2026 at 12 midnight IST. (Based on the current 2026 program plan, the application window is 15 July - 31 August 2026 Tentatively).

• Applications open: 15 July - 31 August 2026
• Roadshows (10+ cities): 29 July - 15 August 2026
• Final decision by 31st October, 2026.
• Investment within 1 - 2 months of final decision itself.

The MaXcel team communicates results by email at the end of each stage, you’ll hear from us whether your application has progressed or been turned down at every round. A rejection doesn’t mean your venture isn’t fundable elsewhere, just that it isn’t the right thesis-fit for MaXcel right now. Founders can also track real-time status - current stage, days elapsed, and next steps on their MaXcel founder dashboard.

Selected founders are mentored directly by Capital-A’s investment partners and team, who bring experience across technology, strategy, financial management and global operations. Startups also get 1-on-1 sessions with industry leaders, seasoned founders, and functional experts during the acceleration program.

Post the deadline, we shall evaluate each deal and communicate via email whether a startup has progressed to the next round or has been rejected. We will be sending you an email in both the circumstances i.e. at the time of rejection or when a startup progresses to the next round.

The final selection will be communicated to the startups within 60 days after the deadline of application. Selected companies will receive a term sheet from Capital-A.

Stage 1: Application Review
Stage 2: Founder Engagement
Stage 3: Deep Dive
Stage 4: Partner Review
Stage 5: Final Selection

Yes you can email your queries to the MaXcel team at hello@capital-a.vc.

No. MaXcel is a founder-friendly program and does not charge any program fee.

Yes, if a portfolio startup performs well, Capital-A may participate in its follow-on funding rounds with larger cheque sizes.