Humane Society International India (HSI/India) is an affiliate of Humane Society International (HSI), which, along with the Humane Society of the United States, forms the world’s largest animal protection organization advancing the welfare of animals in over 50 countries. Humane Society International is one of the few global animal protection organizations working to promote the human-animal bond, rescue and protect dogs and cats, improve farm animal welfare, protect wildlife, promote animal-free testing and research, respond to natural disasters and confront cruelty to animals
in all of its forms.

Yes, you need to be planning to or have already registered in India.

We’re so glad you want to participate! Please prepare a business plan and submit it along with our application form, which will go live in June 2024.

We will review your application thoroughly and be in touch. We will set up a short interview to get to know you and your start-up better. Based on your form and the interview, we will make a decision on the admission into the program.

Participants are expected to participate in extensive workshops, mentoring session and pitch events between the months on June 2024 and October 2024. You will need to commit 3.5 hours a week during this time. Please note that the team that registers for the program must participate in all events and must be available to attend the program from start to finish.

You will hear from us within 1-2 weeks of submitting your application. Apply now!

From HSI/India we will be contributing a grant ₹5 lakhs or more each to all those selected for the program. Furthermore, the program ends with a pitch day where you have the opportunity to pitch to leading investors and secure funds for your venture.

Yes, you will need to travel for the bootcamps to the city you have chosen (Mumbai, Hyderabad, Delhi, Bangalore). Additionally, you will also need to travel for the final demo day at the end of the program if selected.

The program starts in June 2024.

We would be delighted to have a discussion with you. Please contact us at Lkhan@hsi.org.

Please contact us at: hep@hsi.org.

You can fill out the form until 18th August 2024.

Plant-based innovators, assemble! The HEP program dives deep into the future of food, seeking your game-changing solutions that tackle critical challenges and replace animal products in our food systems. Kickstart your journey with intensive 2-day bootcamps in Bangalore, Hyderabad, Mumbai, and New Delhi. If selected, you’ll embark on a dynamic one-month virtual sprint with expert mentorship to refine your business and launch with impact. Join the movement, get tailored support, and learn from the best. Apply now!

The HEP Program: A Two-Part Launchpad for Plant-Based Innovation

Part 1: Intensive Bootcamps (Bangalore, Hyderabad, Mumbai, New Delhi)

• Kick off your journey with a focused 2-day in-person bootcamp in your chosen city.
• Immerse yourself in industry-leading workshops, connect with like-minded entrepreneurs, and gain valuable insights from guest speakers.

Part 2: Dynamic One-Month Virtual Sprint (Following Selection)

• If selected, embark on a comprehensive virtual sprint designed to refine your business model and launch strategy.
• Actively participate in online workshops, receive individual mentorship, collaborate through peer-to-peer learning, and complete assigned tasks to propel your venture forward.
• Weekly progress check-ins ensure you stay on track and maximize your impact.

Culminating in Demo Day:

Present your polished venture to investors and compete for potential funding.

Join the HEP program and launch your plant-based dream. Apply now!

Our mentors are experienced entrepreneurs dedicated to helping you succeed. They will provide

• Market validation and strategy
• Product development and iteration
• Business model refinement
• Fundraising and investor pitching
• Building and managing a team
• Scaling your venture

The HEP program equips you to secure funding on your own terms! While we don’t offer direct equity-free investment, we provide the tools you need for success:

• Expert Mentorship: Refine your investor pitch and financial planning with guidance from experienced entrepreneurs.
• Investor Networking: Build valuable connections with potential funders through program opportunities.

Plus, high-performing startups have the chance to receive a launch stipend from HSI/India (Humane Society International/India). This financial boost will help you take your plant-based dream to the next level.

Apply now and launch with confidence!

Here are some tips for crafting a compelling application:

• Clearly articulate the problem you’re addressing and your proposed solution and how it impacts animals.
• Highlight the market potential for your venture and its unique value proposition.
• Demonstrate your passion and commitment to your mission.
• Be clear on your current stage of development and specific goals for the HEP program.
• Proofread your application carefully for any errors or typos.

We encourage you to showcase your passion, potential, and willingness to learn.

The HEP program in 2024 is focussing on early-stage startups working in the food sector creating alternatives to animal products. Whether you’re validating an idea, prototyping a solution, or preparing for launch, HEP can help you accelerate your journey.

The HEP program is a streamlined program designed to accelerate your plant-based
venture. Here’s what you can expect:

• 2-Day Bootcamps (June – August 2024): Kickstart your journey with intensive workshops and networking in any of the key cities you prefer (Bangalore, Hyderabad, Mumbai, New Delhi)
• One-Month Virtual Sprint (October 2024): Get selected for the comprehensive sprint and receive focused support and expert mentorship to refine your business model.
• Demo Day (November 2024): Showcase your progress and compete for potential funding from investors.

This program takes you from initial inspiration to launch-ready in just six months.
Applications are open now! Apply and take the fast track to success

• Expert Mentorship: Receive personalized guidance from experienced entrepreneurs and investors tailored to your specific needs.
• In-house playbook: Accelerate your plant-based food start-up with our in-house playbook that is your one-stop solution to every hurdle you come across building your start-up!
• Investor Pitching Coaching: Refine your pitch and gain the confidence to captivate potential funders.
• Community Building: Connect and network with fellow change-makers in a supportive environment.

HEP offers a streamlined process to propel your venture forward. Here’s how it works:

Step 1: Simple Online Application

• Submit a concise application outlining your groundbreaking idea, goals, and how HEP can empower your success.

Step 2: Bootcamp Selection

• Based on your application, promising startups will be invited to attend intensive 2-day bootcamps in Bangalore, Hyderabad, Mumbai, or New Delhi.
• Immerse yourself in industry-leading workshops, network with like-minded change-makers, and gain valuable insights from experts.

Step 3: Virtual Sprint & Demo Day (For Selected Participants)

• If selected after the bootcamps, embark on a dynamic one-month virtual sprint.
• Refine your business model with expert mentorship, online workshops, and peer-to- peer learning.
• Showcase your progress and compete for potential funding at the culminating Demo Day in November.

HEP is your launchpad to a thriving plant-based future. Apply now!

The HEP program is currently free for selected startups.

• Accelerate your growth: Gain the knowledge and skills needed to move your venture forward quickly.
• Expert guidance: Receive personalized mentorship from experienced entrepreneurs and investors.
• Investment opportunities: Network with potential investors and learn how to secure funding.
• Network and learn: Connect with fellow change-makers and build a supportive community.

For any further questions about the HEP bootcamps and One-Month Virtual Sprint program, feel free to contact us at hep@hsi.org.