Alumni Accelerator Picks 3 Startups from 60 Applicants, Offers $200K in Credits

For founders, the launch of the MBM Co-founders Club is a case study in how deep alumni networks can be monetized to create targeted startup support. With nearly 60 applicants vying for three spots, the accelerator demonstrates that untapped potential lies within regional engineering colleges. The package of $200,000 in credits—not equity—could be a game-changer for bootstrapping teams looking to scale without immediate dilution.

The MBM Co-founders Club, a newly launched alumni-driven accelerator by Marwari Catalysts Group in partnership with MBM University's alumni association, has announced the selection of its first three startups from a pool of nearly 60 applicants. This development marks a notable step in the evolution of India's startup ecosystem, particularly in tier-2 cities like Jodhpur, where such institutional support has been historically scarce. The initiative is designed not merely as a traditional accelerator but as a movement that leverages a close-knit alumni network to provide founders with mentorship, funding opportunities, and global market access.

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The package of $200,000 in credits—not equity—could be a game-changer for bootstrapping teams looking to scale without immediate dilution.

What sets this accelerator apart is its unique model of being 'by alumni, for alumni.' Unlike generic accelerators, the MBM Co-founders Club taps into a pre-existing community of successful entrepreneurs, investors, and industry leaders who share a common educational heritage. This targeted approach increases the likelihood of meaningful mentorship and long-term engagement, as alumni have a vested interest in the success of their fellow graduates. The selection committee itself, led by Vipul Kocher and including notable figures like Sushil Sharma, reflects a mix of institutional and entrepreneurial experience.

The first cohort's support package is substantial: nearly USD 200,000 in startup acceleration credits, covering AWS credits, cloud infrastructure, AI and developer tools, software subscriptions, and other technology resources. This resource-heavy but equity-light model is becoming increasingly popular among accelerators that aim to de-risk early-stage ventures without diluting founder equity prematurely. By offering credits rather than direct cash, the program empowers startups to allocate resources efficiently while maintaining operational independence. Additionally, the promise of international startup delegations and investor interactions provides a bridge from a regional hub in Rajasthan to global markets, a critical factor for startups in non-metro cities that often struggle with visibility.

The response from alumni was overwhelming: 60 applications from diverse sectors and geographies indicate a latent entrepreneurial spirit within the MBM community that simply needed a catalyst. The rigorous selection process ensured that only three high-potential startups were chosen, though their names remain undisclosed at this stage. This selectivity is a positive signal for the program's quality and will likely attract even more applicants for the next batch, which is set to open soon. The anticipation around the startup names also builds momentum and curiosity within the ecosystem.

Contextually, this launch aligns with a broader trend of alumni-driven entrepreneurship initiatives, such as those at IITs and Stanford, but bringing the model to a regional engineering college like MBM (formerly MBM Engineering College) sets an important precedent. It demonstrates that entrepreneurial ecosystem-building need not be confined to top-tier institutions; with the right community and resources, mid-level colleges can also produce scalable ventures. The Marwari Catalysts Group, known for its focus on nurturing startups within the Marwari community, has added a powerful new dimension to its portfolio by anchoring this club. Their existing network and credibility will be instrumental in drawing investors and partners to the table.