ATF and Bajaj Finserv CSR Launch imaginATe Fellowship for Entrepreneurs with Disabilities

Bengaluru, February 11, 2026: AssisTech Foundation (ATF), in partnership with Bajaj Finserv under its CSR initiative, has formally launched the first cohort of the imaginATe Fellowship, a programme designed to support entrepreneurs with disabilities across India.

The fellowship, jointly envisioned by ATF and Bajaj Finserv, aims to strengthen early-stage ventures through structured mentorship, capacity building, ecosystem access and sustained support. The programme received over 100 applications nationwide after opening in December. Following a multi-stage screening process and a two-day jury evaluation conducted by industry professionals, DEI practitioners, corporate leaders and persons with disabilities, 10 founders were selected for the inaugural cohort.

The official induction of the fellows was held at Swissnex, Bengaluru, marking the formal commencement of the programme. The selected entrepreneurs represent diverse regions and lived experiences, working on ventures spanning inclusive media, adaptive clothing, AI-powered assistive technologies, mobility innovations and accessible retail platforms.

Prateek Madhav, Co-Founder & CEO, AssisTech Foundation (ATF) said, “Entrepreneurs with disabilities bring deep lived experience, resilience, and innovation to the table, yet they often face barriers in access, mentorship, and visibility. imaginATe is designed to address these gaps in a meaningful, sustained way. The diversity and quality of ideas in this inaugural cohort reinforces our belief that inclusive entrepreneurship is not charity- it is smart, future-facing nation-building.”

Kurush Irani, President – Group CSR, Bajaj Finserv, added, “The passion and ideas of our first imaginATe cohort give us full confidence in their progress. By providing the right training and resources, we are providing them with a path to lead the way in building impactful, sustainable businesses. Best wishes to each of them as they take their solutions forward.”

The fellowship will offer expert-led learning sessions, mentorship, access to assistive technologies, and post-fellowship support to help participants build viable and scalable ventures.

ATF, established as India’s first Assistive Technology ecosystem enabler, focuses on empowering Persons with Disabilities through learning, livelihood and living opportunities. Bajaj Finserv CSR drives social impact initiatives centred on youth development and inclusion for persons with disabilities.