Call for R&DI Funding Proposals
TiHAN-IIT Hyderabad invites R&DI funding proposals for autonomous navigation and data acquisition technologies, offering grants up to ₹15L for 12-month projects.
- Funding amount
- ₹15L (grant)
- Funding type
- Grant
- Provider
- TiHAN, IIT Hyderabad (Academic)
- Application deadline
- Closed (20 Jan 2026)
- Eligible stage
- Any stage
- Location
- Open to startups registered in India
Overview
TiHAN (Technology Innovation Hub on Autonomous Navigation and Data Acquisition Systems) at IIT Hyderabad, under the DST NMICPS scheme, has launched a call for Research & Development and Innovation (R&DI) funding proposals. The program aims to advance technologies in autonomous navigation and data acquisition through translational research with strong commercialization potential. Projects are expected to be completed within 12 months and must align with national priorities in autonomous systems. The initiative focuses on over nine thrust areas, including autonomous platforms, UAVs, ROVs, AI/ML, robotics, edge computing, cyber-physical systems, communications, standards, regulations, and long-term technology roadmapping. Close industry–academia collaboration is encouraged to ensure tangible technological outcomes.
Highlights
- Grants up to ₹15L for 12-month R&DI projects
- Focus on autonomous navigation, UAVs, AI/ML, robotics, and more
- Open to academia, scientists, researchers, and R&DI institutions
- Encourages industry–academia collaboration and translational research
- Covers over nine thrust areas aligned with national priorities
Who can apply
The program is open to faculty members, scientists, and researchers from universities and academic institutions. Registered scientific societies, R&DI institutions, and laboratories can also apply, as well as autonomous R&DI organizations and government laboratories. Applicants must have approval from the competent authority at their institution and possess adequate infrastructure to carry out the proposed R&DI activities.
Call for R&DI Funding Proposals 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 Call for R&DI Funding Proposals closed on 20 Jan 2026. Many programmes run repeat cohorts, so it is worth checking the official site for the next round.
What the funding covers
Selected projects receive a grant of up to ₹15L for a duration of 12 months. The funding supports translational research in autonomous navigation and data acquisition technologies, with an emphasis on commercialization potential and industry collaboration.
About the provider
Call for R&DI Funding Proposals is offered by TiHAN, IIT Hyderabad, an academic institution. It is delivered directly by TiHAN, IIT Hyderabad as a grant. You can verify current details and timelines on the provider's official website before applying.
Documents you’ll need
Before you apply to Call for R&DI Funding Proposals, 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
Call for R&DI Funding Proposals is best suited for startups in India seeking non-dilutive funding of ₹15L. If that describes your startup, review the eligibility criteria above before applying.
Frequently asked questions
What is the funding amount offered under this call?
Selected projects can receive up to ₹15L as a grant.
What is the application deadline?
The deadline for submitting proposals is 20th January 2026.
Who is eligible to apply?
Faculty, scientists, researchers from universities, academic institutions, registered scientific societies, R&DI institutions, laboratories, autonomous R&DI organizations, and government laboratories are eligible. Approval from the competent authority and adequate infrastructure are required.
Does the program take equity?
No, this is a grant-based funding program, so no equity is taken.
What are the key thrust areas?
Thrust areas include autonomous platforms, UAVs, ROVs, AI/ML, robotics, edge computing, cyber-physical systems, communications, standards, regulations, and long-term technology roadmapping.
How long is the project duration?
Projects are funded for a duration of 12 months.
How do I apply?
Prepare a project proposal and obtain an endorsement letter signed by the Head of Institution. Combine both into a single consolidated PDF and submit through the official application link on the TiHAN website.
What documents are required?
A project proposal and an endorsement letter from the Head of Institution are required.
Is a DPIIT or MSME registration required?
No, DPIIT or MSME registration is not mentioned as a requirement for this call.
Can industry partners apply?
The call is open to academic and R&DI institutions, but industry collaboration is encouraged as part of the project.
Who offers Call for R&DI Funding Proposals?
Call for R&DI Funding Proposals is offered by TiHAN, IIT Hyderabad, an academic institution. It is provided as non-dilutive funding.
More funding from TiHAN, IIT Hyderabad
TiHAN, IIT Hyderabad runs 3 other programs listed on startupfunds — compare them before you decide where to apply.
Alternatives to Call for R&DI Funding Proposals
Not sure Call for R&DI Funding Proposals is the right fit, or already applied? These are other grants open to Indian startups that founders shortlist alongside it.
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