Emergent Ventures India by Mercatus Center

Emergent Ventures India is a fellowship and grant programme open to Indian applicants, operating under the global Emergent Ventures umbrella. It is run by the Mercatus Center at George Mason University, a privately funded research institution in the United States. The Center connects academic work with public policy, focusing on how government actions affect the economy and supporting market-based approaches that benefit society. Over time, it has built a community of thinkers and doers who use entrepreneurship and informed policy to address complex social issues.

The programme began in 2018 and supports entrepreneurs and original thinkers pursuing scalable, "zero to one" projects—those that create entirely new solutions rather than improving existing ones. Such ideas are often unconventional but hold the potential for substantial, transformative social impact, not just marginal gains.

Financial support is project-specific and non-dilutive, meaning recipients keep full ownership of their ventures. Grant sizes vary, from small amounts to larger awards, depending on the project's needs and expected influence. Funding is directed at ideas that foster prosperity, expand opportunity, support liberty, and improve societal welfare. A clear route to revenue self-sufficiency is viewed favourably.

Grants may cover expenses directly tied to advancing the project and meeting its social objectives. In addition to funding, the fellowship offers access to a network of peers and the intellectual environment of the Mercatus Center, which can reshape both the applicant's path and the project's growth.

Applicants are required to complete a basic application form, which includes a proposal of no more than 1500 words. This proposal must address the applicant's personal narrative, a widely accepted viewpoint they endorse, and a thorough account of their concept, covering the issue, proposed remedy, originality, and appropriate timing. An optional indicative budget, detailing projected income and costs, may be attached. Additional details on time availability, possible collaborations, and backers can also be submitted. Typically, applicants receive a decision within seven days of filing.

Applicants complete a short online form, including a proposal of no more than 1,500 words that addresses their personal background, the problem they aim to solve, their proposed solution, what makes their approach novel, and the timing of their initiative. They may optionally attach a budget and other supporting information. In most cases, applicants receive a decision within seven days of submitting their form.