AIM-ICDK Water Challenge 5.0
AIM and ICDK launch the 5th Water Challenge for Indian innovators, offering fully-funded travel to Copenhagen for mentorship, global collaboration, and digital solution development.
- Funding amount
- Varies by program
- Funding type
- Grant
- Provider
- NITI Aayog (Government)
- Application deadline
- Closed (5 May 2025)
- Eligible stage
- Any stage
- Location
- Open to startups registered in India
Overview
The Atal Innovation Mission (AIM) under NITI Aayog has partnered with Innovation Centre Denmark (ICDK), the Royal Danish Embassy in India, and the Technical University of Denmark (DTU) to launch the fifth edition of the AIM-ICDK Water Innovation Challenge. The program seeks aspiring innovators from India to solve water security challenges while gaining global exposure at the Digital Tech Summit 2025. Selected participants join the Next Generation Digital Action (NGDA) program, collaborating with fellow innovators from Denmark, Ghana, Kenya, Korea, Tanzania, South Africa, Colombia, and Mexico. The initiative aims to build digital solutions for societal transformation, with a focus on sustainability and inclusive design. Two tracks are available: a Student Track for degree-enrolled individuals (aged ≤35) involving a three-week hybrid innovation sprint addressing environmental and societal issues, and an Entrepreneur Track for early-stage water-sector startups (2-5 years old) to access mentorship, networking, and investor connections.
Who can apply
The challenge is open to Indian citizens through two distinct tracks.
Student Track: Open to students enrolled in Bachelor's, Master's, or PhD programs, with age ≤35 years. Participants develop digital solutions for environmental and societal impact through a hybrid three-week innovation journey addressing real sustainability challenges.
Entrepreneur Track: Early-stage startups operating in the water sector, with an age of 2-5 years, can apply. Teams should have a working prototype or early product focused on water security. Selected startups receive expert mentorship, global networking, and opportunities to pitch to potential investors and industry leaders.
AIM-ICDK Water Challenge 5.0 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 AIM-ICDK Water Challenge 5.0 closed on 5 May 2025. Many programmes run repeat cohorts, so it is worth checking the official site for the next round.
What the funding covers
Selected participants receive fully-funded travel to Copenhagen, Denmark. Additional support covers accommodation during the program period. Participants also gain international exposure at the Digital Tech Summit, mentorship from global experts and industry leaders, and opportunities for cross-cultural collaboration with innovators from multiple countries. They undergo training in sustainability, digital solutions, and universal design.
About the provider
AIM-ICDK Water Challenge 5.0 is offered by NITI Aayog, 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.
Documents you’ll need
Before you apply to AIM-ICDK Water Challenge 5.0, 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.
Frequently asked questions
What is the application deadline for AIM-ICDK Water Challenge 5.0?
The application deadline for AIM-ICDK Water Challenge 5.0 is Closed (5 May 2025). Deadlines can be revised, so reconfirm on the official source before applying.
Does AIM-ICDK Water Challenge 5.0 take equity?
No. AIM-ICDK Water Challenge 5.0 is grant and is non-dilutive — the provider does not take an equity stake in your startup.
Is DPIIT recognition required for AIM-ICDK Water Challenge 5.0?
No. DPIIT (Startup India) recognition is not listed as a mandatory requirement for AIM-ICDK Water Challenge 5.0, though having it can strengthen your application and unlock other benefits.
Who is eligible to apply for AIM-ICDK Water Challenge 5.0?
AIM-ICDK Water Challenge 5.0 is open to startups at any stage. It is open to startups registered anywhere in India.
Who offers AIM-ICDK Water Challenge 5.0?
AIM-ICDK Water Challenge 5.0 is offered by NITI Aayog, a government body. It is provided as non-dilutive funding.
How do I apply for AIM-ICDK Water Challenge 5.0?
Apply directly through the official application link on this page. Review the eligibility criteria and prepare your startup documents before you begin.
More funding from NITI Aayog
NITI Aayog runs another program listed on startupfunds — compare them before you decide where to apply.
Alternatives to AIM-ICDK Water Challenge 5.0
Not sure AIM-ICDK Water Challenge 5.0 is the right fit, or already applied? These are other grants open to Indian startups that founders shortlist alongside it.
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