Domain-specific Centres of Excellence

The Domain-specific Centres of Excellence (CoEs) are an initiative by the Ministry of Electronics and Information Technology (MeitY) to nurture startups working on deep technology. These centres provide specialized support tailored to specific technology domains, such as artificial intelligence, blockchain, IoT, and more. The program aims to foster innovation and accelerate the growth of tech startups by offering resources, mentorship, and networking opportunities.

Each CoE focuses on a particular domain, ensuring that startups receive targeted guidance and infrastructure relevant to their field. The initiative is part of the government's broader effort to promote indigenous technology development and make India a global hub for innovation.

• Run by the Ministry of Electronics and Information Technology (MeitY) to promote deep tech startups.
• Provides grant funding, but the amount varies per centre and startup.
• No specific deadline; applications are accepted through ongoing calls.
• Focuses on emerging technologies like AI, blockchain, IoT, and cybersecurity.
• Offers access to labs, mentorship, and investor networks.
• Eligible for tech startups at any stage, with a preference for early-stage ventures.

Startups operating in the technology sector are eligible to apply. The program specifically targets ventures working on deep tech, which includes advanced technologies like AI, machine learning, blockchain, IoT, cybersecurity, and other emerging fields. There is no restriction on the stage of the startup, but preference may be given to early-stage ventures with a strong technology focus. Startups must be registered as a legal entity in India. There are no specific requirements for DPIIT or MSME registration, though having them may be beneficial.

Domain-specific Centres of Excellence is open to startups at any stage. It is open to startups registered anywhere in India.

Domain-specific Centres of Excellence accepts applications on a rolling basis — there is no fixed cut-off date, so eligible startups can apply at any time. Because rolling programmes can pause without notice, confirm the window is still open on the official site before you start.

• Grant Funding: Selected startups receive financial support in the form of grants. The amount varies depending on the specific centre and the startup's needs.
• Infrastructure Access: Startups get access to state-of-the-art labs, equipment, and co-working spaces at the CoEs.
• Mentorship: Expert guidance from industry leaders, academicians, and domain specialists.
• Networking Opportunities: Connections with potential investors, partners, and customers.
• Business Support: Assistance with product development, testing, certification, and go-to-market strategies.
• Training Programs: Workshops and training sessions on various aspects of running a tech startup.

Domain-specific Centres of Excellence is offered by Ministry of Electronics and Information Technology (MeitY), 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.

• Application Submission: Startups submit their application through the official CoE website or by contacting the respective centre.
• Shortlisting: Applications are reviewed based on the technology domain, innovation level, and potential impact.
• Interview/Presentation: Shortlisted startups are invited for a presentation or interview to discuss their idea and business plan.
• Final Selection: Selected startups are onboarded into the CoE program and receive the support package.

Before you apply to Domain-specific Centres of Excellence, 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.