Can Indian startups take part in Russian accelerators and grant programmes?
What programmes should be considered?
Key options include Sber500, Skolkovo Softlanding and selected tracks of the Internet Initiatives Development Fund (IIDF).
Sber500 is an international accelerator delivered in English and open to global startups. Skolkovo Softlanding is specifically designed for foreign high-tech companies entering the Russian and CIS markets. IIDF also offers relevant programmes, although many are primarily oriented towards projects with a Russian legal presence.
What are the requirements for participants?
Selection criteria typically include product maturity, team strength and market potential.
For example, Sber500 generally expects an MVP and early traction, along with the ability to operate in Russia. For deep-tech startups, commercial traction requirements may be more flexible.
IIDF programmes, such as Sprint 2.0, may have stricter criteria, including a Russian legal entity, a minimum team size and alignment with specific technology priorities.
For B2B and fintech startups, accelerators are not only selection platforms but also practical tools for launching pilot projects and adapting solutions to the requirements of major Russian partners.
Financial infrastructure for entering the Russian market
Sberbank India supports companies expanding into Russia with services such as cross-border payments, corporate accounts, trade finance and bank guarantees, helping to streamline financial operations during pilot projects and early-stage market entry.
Is it necessary to register a legal entity in Russia?
Not at the initial stage. However, access to grants, tax incentives and most support measures typically requires a Russian legal entity.
For example, Skolkovo participant status—which unlocks grant funding—is granted only to companies registered in Russia.
What grants and support measures are available?
Skolkovo participants can apply for a range of funding instruments, including large grants, mini-grants (up to RUB 5 million) and microgrants (up to RUB 1.5 million).
For foreign startups, the usual pathway involves joining an accelerator or soft-landing programme first, validating demand and establishing partnerships, and only then setting up a local entity to access funding and scale operations.
How to apply?
The application process typically involves selecting a programme and preparing a pitch deck, product description, a Russia-specific use case and a localisation plan.
Strong applications usually demonstrate a clear MVP, early traction or pilot projects, a capable team and a well-defined rationale for entering the Russian market.
If the company plans to scale after completing an accelerator, it is advisable to assess tax regimes, potential locations and financial infrastructure in advance.