ADITI 2.0 (Acing Development of Innovative Technologies with iDEX) - Defence Grant
MoD-iDEX grants up to ₹25Cr for startups and MSMEs to develop cutting-edge defence technologies, such as Adaptive Camouflage, supporting Atmanirbhar Bharat.
- Funding amount
- ₹25Cr (grant)
- Funding type
- Grant
- Provider
- Defence Innovation Organisation (Government)
- Application deadline
- Closed (30 Oct 2025)
- Eligible stage
- Any stage
- Location
- Open to startups registered in India
Overview
ADITI 2.0 is a flagship grant programme run by the Ministry of Defence through the iDEX (Innovations for Defence Excellence) framework. It calls on innovative startups and MSMEs to solve specific defence challenges by developing next-generation technologies. The initiative is a key pillar of the Atmanirbhar Bharat vision, aiming to reduce import dependence and make India self-reliant in defence.
The programme operates via defined Problem Statements (PS). An example domain is Adaptive Camouflage for mechanised infantry vehicles, where the armed forces seek a scientific methodology that improves concealment across all terrains. Successful applicants receive development support and a clear path to commercial adoption by the Indian Defence Forces.
Selected innovators are awarded a grant of up to ₹25 Crore to fund the research, prototyping, and eventual commercialisation of their technology. The goal is to turn breakthrough ideas into field-ready products that strengthen national security.
Highlights
- Funded by the Ministry of Defence under the iDEX framework.
- Grant amount goes up to ₹25 Crore per project.
- Targets next-generation defence technologies like adaptive camouflage.
- Application deadline: 30 October 2025.
- Designed to make India self-reliant in defence through Atmanirbhar Bharat.
- Open specifically to startups and MSMEs.
Who can apply
The programme is open to startups and MSMEs incorporated in India that are working on, or can pivot to, next-generation defence technologies. Applicants must address one of the officially released Problem Statements (for example, the Adaptive Camouflage challenge). There is no strict industry or state restriction enforced in the sourced data, but the solution must be a novel technology with scientific rigour. The programme does not specify DPIIT or MSME registration as mandatory, nor does it require particular founder credentials, so eligible entities are those that can demonstrate the capability to develop the required technology into a viable product for the Indian armed forces.
ADITI 2.0 (Acing Development of Innovative Technologies with iDEX) - Defence Grant is open to startups at any stage. It is open to startups registered anywhere in India.
- Eligible stage
- Any stage
- Location
- Open to startups registered in India
Deadline & timing
The most recent application window for ADITI 2.0 (Acing Development of Innovative Technologies with iDEX) - Defence Grant closed on 30 Oct 2025. Many programmes run repeat cohorts, so it is worth checking the official site for the next round.
What the funding covers
- Grant of up to ₹25 Crore for selected innovators, provided in tranches to support technology development.
- Funding covers prototyping, testing, and product development.
- Winners receive a potential procurement pathway into the Indian Defence Forces.
- Access to military-domain expertise and feedback through the iDEX ecosystem.
About the provider
ADITI 2.0 (Acing Development of Innovative Technologies with iDEX) - Defence Grant is offered by Defence Innovation Organisation, a government body. As a government-backed grant, it is publicly funded and open to eligible startups across India. You can verify current details and timelines on the provider's official website before applying.
How to apply
Applications are submitted on the official portal. Confirm the current deadline and document checklist there before you start.
Selection process
Proposals are submitted online via the iDEX portal against a specific Problem Statement. Evaluation focuses on technical feasibility, innovation quotient, and the team's ability to deliver a deployable defence solution. Innovations that promise a scientific methodology — like the Adaptive Camouflage exemplar — and align with Armed Forces requirements are prioritised. Shortlisted startups/MSMEs are granted the ADC (ADITI) funding, with milestones tied to product development stages.
Documents you’ll need
Before you apply to ADITI 2.0 (Acing Development of Innovative Technologies with iDEX) - Defence Grant, keep the following documents ready:
- A pitch deck or short business plan describing the problem, product and traction
- Company registration documents and PAN
- Founder identification (PAN / Aadhaar) and brief profiles
- Recent financial statements or projections
- Product details — a demo, prototype or working link if available
Exact requirements are confirmed on the official application portal — treat this as a preparation checklist.
Who this is best for
ADITI 2.0 (Acing Development of Innovative Technologies with iDEX) - Defence Grant is best suited for startups in India seeking non-dilutive funding of ₹25Cr. If that describes your startup, review the eligibility criteria above before applying.
Frequently asked questions
What is the maximum grant amount I can receive under ADITI 2.0?
Selected innovators can receive a grant of up to ₹25 Crore to develop their defence technology.
When is the application deadline?
The last date to apply is 30 October 2025.
Who is eligible to apply for ADITI 2.0?
Innovative startups and MSMEs registered in India are eligible. You must submit a solution against one of the programme’s published Problem Statements.
Which sector or technology do I need to work on?
Your solution must fall under a defence-specific Problem Statement. The example shared is Adaptive Camouflage for mechanised infantry vehicles, but other PSs may be released. You must develop a scientific methodology for better concealment in all terrains.
Is equity taken in exchange for the grant?
No — ADITI 2.0 offers a grant (non-dilutive funding). The funding mechanism does not involve equity or any loan repayment.
Do I need DPIIT or MSME registration to apply?
Although eligibility is stated for startups and MSMEs, the programme details do not explicitly require DPIIT recognition or MSME registration. However, your entity should qualify as a startup or MSME under Indian definitions.
How do I apply for ADITI 2.0?
Applications are submitted online through the iDEX portal at the official ADITI 2.0 application page (https://idex.gov.in/user/form/aditi_2_re_open_2).
What documents are typically needed for the application?
The sourced facts do not list specific documents. However, you should expect to provide a detailed technical proposal, team credentials, financials, and proof of entity incorporation.
Can my company apply from any state in India?
Yes. The eligibility criteria do not restrict applicants to any particular state. Your startup or MSME must be registered in India.
What happens after I receive the grant?
Funding is released in tranches based on achievement of development milestones. The goal is to translate the innovation into a commercial product for the Indian Defence Forces.
How much funding does ADITI 2.0 (Acing Development of Innovative Technologies with iDEX) - Defence Grant provide?
ADITI 2.0 (Acing Development of Innovative Technologies with iDEX) - Defence Grant provides ₹25Cr (up to) as grant. Always confirm the exact amount and any conditions on the official site, as figures can change between cohorts.
Who offers ADITI 2.0 (Acing Development of Innovative Technologies with iDEX) - Defence Grant?
ADITI 2.0 (Acing Development of Innovative Technologies with iDEX) - Defence Grant is offered by Defence Innovation Organisation, a government body. It is provided as non-dilutive funding.
More funding from Defence Innovation Organisation
Defence Innovation Organisation runs 6 other programs listed on startupfunds — compare them before you decide where to apply.
Alternatives to ADITI 2.0 (Acing Development of Innovative Technologies with iDEX) - Defence Grant
Not sure ADITI 2.0 (Acing Development of Innovative Technologies with iDEX) - Defence Grant is the right fit, or already applied? These are other grants open to Indian startups that founders shortlist alongside it.
Questions from founders
Ask anything about eligibility, documents or the process — answered by the community.
No questions yet — be the first to ask.