Fundamental to our work is the way we are structured as an organisation, the operational processes we employ and our strategy for scaling up our incubation model.

Scouting
This is the very first step in incubation of innovations. It is important to cast the net as wide as possible so that the ideas with most promise are identified.

L-RAMP has a scouting process that taps various sources.
Scouting activities include:

• The annual L-RAMP innovation awards program

• Patent mining

• Thematic workshops with sectoral focus

• Referrals from Networks

• Scouting by Nodal Partners

• My Idea Programmes for students and

• Search of databases.

Selection
This is the activity that follows Scouting. L-RAMP’s screening activity is designed and implemented in a way that makes it quick and accurate. Screening of innovations at L-RAMP is done in stages:

• Innovator submits Application

• Innovator-Expert Interaction Session: After the application is received, the innovator is invited to have a meeting with an expert in the area. The innovator presents the innovation and the expert examines the idea for technical validity. Following the session, the expert gives appropriate feedback to the Steering Committee.

• Steering Committee assesses application for potential social impact. The Steering Committee is empowered to approve support of up to Rs. 2 lakhs. Any support in excess of Rs. 2 lakhs has to be approved by the Advisory Board. Detailed Screening and Presentation to Advisory Board

• Advisory Board’s decision

• Induction Programme

L-RAMP selects innovations based on the following criteria:

1.  What are the benefits created by the innovation for the rural poor?

2.  What is the innovativeness of the technology?

3.  Is the idea scalable through enterprise? Can the innovation be built into a business?