FutureSecure AI Innovation (FSAI) Programme at SIIC, IIT Kanpur

The FutureSecure AI Innovation (FSAI) Programme, hosted by SIIC at IIT Kanpur and supported by the Shibodhi Foundation, is a grant-based initiative designed to empower IIT Kanpur students to turn their AI, cybersecurity, and interdisciplinary ideas into viable startups. The program bridges research and real-world application through structured mentorship, funding, and industry immersion.

Focus areas include AI applications, CS applications, and interdisciplinary integration such as AI in Mechanical, Chemical, IoT, and Defence. Selected teams receive up to ₹6L in funding, disbursed quarterly based on progress. The program culminates in a prototype, after which students in their 7th–8th semesters can incorporate their startup and apply for further grants, including donor-backed seed funding against equity.

• Grant of up to ₹6L for IIT Kanpur student teams
• Focus on AI, cybersecurity, and interdisciplinary applications
• Open to all departments; interdisciplinary teams preferred
• Team size: 2–3 members; minimum CPI of 7.0
• Quarterly disbursement based on progress evaluations
• Two teams selected per cohort

The program is exclusively for IIT Kanpur students. Eligible teams must have 2–3 members. Every undergraduate member must have completed their 4th semester (i.e., be in 2nd year or beyond) and maintain a minimum CPI of 7.0. Teams from all departments are welcome, and interdisciplinary teams are strongly encouraged. Ideas should align with Artificial Intelligence, Cybersecurity, or interdisciplinary applications merging AI/CS with other fields.

FutureSecure AI Innovation (FSAI) Programme at SIIC, IIT Kanpur is open to startups at any stage. It is open to startups registered anywhere in India.

The most recent application window for FutureSecure AI Innovation (FSAI) Programme at SIIC, IIT Kanpur closed on 7 Dec 2025. Many programmes run repeat cohorts, so it is worth checking the official site for the next round.

Selected teams receive up to ₹6L in grant funding. The amount is disbursed quarterly, contingent on satisfactory progress evaluations. Beyond capital, teams benefit from structured mentorship, industry immersion, and the opportunity to pitch for additional donor-backed seed funding (which may be offered against equity) after developing a prototype.

FutureSecure AI Innovation (FSAI) Programme at SIIC, IIT Kanpur is offered by SIIC IIT Kanpur, an academic institution. It is delivered directly by SIIC IIT Kanpur as a grant. You can verify current details and timelines on the provider's official website before applying.

The application process unfolds in stages:

• Application: Eligible teams apply via the provided link.
• Shortlisting: Teams are shortlisted based on their applications.
• Pitching: Shortlisted teams present their ideas to a committee.
• Industry Immersion: Selected teams undergo an industry immersion experience.
• Final Pitch: Teams make a final presentation to the committee.
• Selection: Two teams are ultimately awarded the funding.
• Disbursement: Funds are released quarterly, subject to satisfactory progress reviews.

Before you apply to FutureSecure AI Innovation (FSAI) Programme at SIIC, IIT Kanpur, 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.

FutureSecure AI Innovation (FSAI) Programme at SIIC, IIT Kanpur is best suited for startups in India seeking non-dilutive funding of ₹6L. If that describes your startup, review the eligibility criteria above before applying.