ELEVATE NXT 2026 Deeptech Grant-in-Aid Program

The ELEVATE NXT 2026 program is a flagship grant-in-aid initiative spearheaded by the Government of Karnataka, through KBITS, operating under the LEAP framework. This program is specifically designed to identify, nurture, and scale high-potential Deeptech startups through a transparent, milestone-driven funding approach. It aims to foster innovation and growth within the state's technology ecosystem.

The initiative targets startups that are developing groundbreaking, science- and engineering-led solutions. This includes advanced technologies such as Artificial Intelligence (AI), Machine Learning (ML), Internet of Things (IoT), Blockchain, Robotics, Augmented Reality (AR)/Virtual Reality (VR), Drones, Advanced Manufacturing, Semiconductors, and Quantum Technologies, among others.

Selected startups can receive substantial grant-in-aid funding, potentially reaching up to ₹1 crore, alongside structured mentorship and comprehensive evaluation support. While the program welcomes applications from startups across India, those selected that are not currently registered in Karnataka will be required to relocate their registered office to the state within four months of the result declaration. The program places strong emphasis on the societal relevance of the technology, its depth, scalability potential, and global competitiveness.

• Grant-in-aid funding up to ₹1 Crore.
• Focus on Deeptech startups with TRL 3-8.
• Open to startups up to 10 years from incorporation.
• Provided by KBITS, Government of Karnataka.
• Non-Karnataka startups must relocate RoC to Karnataka if selected.
• Application deadline: 2026-02-24.

To be eligible for the ELEVATE NXT 2026 Deeptech Grant-in-Aid Program, startups must meet several key criteria:

• The entity must be incorporated as a Private Limited Company, a Limited Liability Partnership (LLP), or a Registered Partnership Firm.
• The startup's age should not exceed 10 years from its date of incorporation.
• Its annual turnover must not have exceeded ₹100 Crores in any financial year since incorporation.
• A minimum team size of two individuals is required.
• The startup must be an independent entity, not operating as a subsidiary or an internal unit of another company.
• Applicants should not have previously received an ELEVATE Grant-in-Aid within the last 3 years.
• The technology developed by the startup must demonstrate a Technology Readiness Level (TRL) between 3 and 8, supported by appropriate proof.
• The applicant must qualify as a Deeptech startup, utilizing advanced technologies and demonstrating core science or engineering innovation.
• Startups registered outside Karnataka are eligible to apply, but if selected, they are mandated to shift their registered office (RoC) to Karnataka within four months of the selection results being announced.

ELEVATE NXT 2026 Deeptech Grant-in-Aid Program is open to startups at any stage. It is open to startups registered anywhere in India.

The most recent application window for ELEVATE NXT 2026 Deeptech Grant-in-Aid Program closed on 24 Feb 2026. Many programmes run repeat cohorts, so it is worth checking the official site for the next round.

Recipients of the ELEVATE NXT 2026 Deeptech Grant-in-Aid Program receive significant support designed to accelerate their growth and innovation.

• Financial Grant: Selected startups are awarded grant-in-aid funding of up to ₹1 crore. This non-dilutive capital is intended to support the development and scaling of their Deeptech solutions.
• Mentorship: The program provides structured mentorship, connecting startups with experienced professionals and industry experts to guide their strategic and operational development.
• Evaluation Support: Startups benefit from comprehensive evaluation support, ensuring their progress is tracked and they receive constructive feedback to achieve their milestones effectively.

ELEVATE NXT 2026 Deeptech Grant-in-Aid Program is offered by KBITS, Government of Karnataka, 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.

The selection process for the ELEVATE NXT 2026 program involves multiple stages, designed to identify and support high-potential Deeptech startups.

Applicants begin by submitting an online application through the official Elevate portal. This initial submission requires providing a self-justification (up to 200 words) detailing their Deeptech nature, declaring their Technology Readiness Level (TRL), and uploading mandatory documents, including two distinct pitch decks and necessary affidavits.

Following the application submission, a data sufficiency check is conducted to ensure compliance with all eligibility criteria. Subsequently, a Level 1 jury performs an initial evaluation, primarily focusing on the startup's qualification as a Deeptech entity. Successful applicants then proceed to in-person pitching rounds, which culminate in a Grand Finale. The final selection is based on weighted scores from the jury and is contingent upon milestone-based approval, ensuring funding is tied to verifiable progress.

Before you apply to ELEVATE NXT 2026 Deeptech Grant-in-Aid Program, 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.

ELEVATE NXT 2026 Deeptech Grant-in-Aid Program is best suited for startups in India seeking non-dilutive funding of ₹1Cr. If that describes your startup, review the eligibility criteria above before applying.