I-DAPT HUB Incubation Cohort 3 , IIT (BHU) Varanasi

The I-DAPT HUB Foundation, based at IIT (BHU) Varanasi, operates as a Technology Innovation Hub. It was established as a Section 8 company under the Government of India's National Mission on Interdisciplinary Cyber-Physical Systems (NM-ICPS), with support from the Department of Science & Technology. The foundation's primary goal is to foster early-stage Indian startups focused on cutting-edge fields such as Artificial Intelligence (AI), data analytics, Internet of Things (IoT), cyber-physical systems, robotics, and Augmented/Virtual Reality (AR/VR). Its core thematic area is Data Analytics & Predictive Technologies (DAPT).

The Cohort 3 program is designed to support up to 10 companies annually with substantial grants of up to ₹1 crore. Beyond financial assistance, selected startups benefit from comprehensive incubation services, including mentorship from IIT (BHU) faculty and industry experts, access to state-of-the-art laboratory facilities and infrastructure, and valuable connections to extensive industry and government networks. The program also provides dedicated office space, essential technical support, guidance on market access strategies, and legal advice, alongside structured pathways to secure follow-on funding.

This incubation program welcomes Indian-incorporated startups ranging from the idea stage to those with paying customers, spanning pre-seed, seed, and Series A funding rounds. While the program is sector-agnostic, it maintains a strong orientation towards its core DAPT focus. The application window for Cohort 3 closes on May 31, 2026.

• Grants of up to ₹1 crore for DAPT-focused startups.
• Incubation and mentorship at IIT (BHU) Varanasi.
• Open to DPIIT-recognised Indian startups at various stages.
• Access to advanced labs, market, and government networks.
• Application deadline: May 31, 2026.
• Supports up to 10 companies annually.

To be eligible for the I-DAPT HUB Incubation Cohort 3, startups must meet several key criteria:

• The startup must be incorporated in India.
• It is mandatory to hold DPIIT (DIPP) recognition.
• At least one founder must be dedicated to working on the startup full-time.
• A minimum of 51% equity in the startup must be held by at least one founder.
• The program is open to startups at various developmental stages, including idea, prototype, users, or paying-users stage.
• Startups should be targeting pre-seed, seed, or Series A funding rounds.
• The program maintains a sector-agnostic approach, but with a strong emphasis on Data Analytics & Predictive Technologies (DAPT) as its core thematic focus.
• Startups with prior funding or existing revenue streams are also welcome to apply.

I-DAPT HUB Incubation Cohort 3 , IIT (BHU) Varanasi is open to startups at any stage. It is open to startups registered anywhere in India.

The most recent application window for I-DAPT HUB Incubation Cohort 3 , IIT (BHU) Varanasi closed on 31 May 2026. Many programmes run repeat cohorts, so it is worth checking the official site for the next round.

Selected startups receive a non-dilutive grant of up to ₹1 crore to fuel their growth and innovation. In addition to financial support, the program offers a comprehensive suite of benefits designed to accelerate startup development:

• Office space at IIT (BHU)'s I-DAPT HUB, providing a conducive environment for innovation.
• Mentorship from experienced IIT (BHU) faculty and seasoned industry experts.
• Essential technical support to overcome development challenges.
• Crucial legal guidance to navigate regulatory landscapes.
• Access to cutting-edge labs and infrastructure for research and development.
• Facilitation of market access pathways to help startups reach their target customers.
• Direct connections to industry and government networks, opening doors for potential follow-on funding and strategic partnerships.

Up to 10 companies are selected and funded through this program each year.

I-DAPT HUB Incubation Cohort 3 , IIT (BHU) Varanasi is offered by I-DAPT HUB Foundation, IIT (BHU) Varanasi, an academic institution. It is delivered directly by I-DAPT HUB Foundation, IIT (BHU) Varanasi as a grant. You can verify current details and timelines on the provider's official website before applying.

The selection process for the I-DAPT HUB Incubation Cohort 3 involves several structured stages to identify promising startups:

• Online Application: Startups initiate the process by submitting their application through the F6S portal. This requires providing detailed information about the founders, the company, and the product or service.
• Document Submission: Applicants must upload mandatory documents, including their incorporation certificate, DPIIT certificate, equity structure details, a comprehensive business plan, and documentation related to their technology or product.
• Initial Screening: The I-DAPT HUB team conducts an initial screening to verify compliance with core requirements, such as Indian incorporation, DPIIT recognition, founder equity structure, and alignment with the Data Analytics & Predictive Technologies (DAPT) thematic focus.
• Evaluation of Shortlisted Startups: Startups that pass the initial screening are then shortlisted. Their applications undergo a thorough evaluation based on the technical merit of their solution, their market potential, and the strength and expertise of their team.
• Pitch/Interview: Shortlisted teams are invited for a pitch or interview session with the selection committee to present their vision and answer questions.
• Final Selection and Onboarding: Successfully evaluated startups receive final selection. They are then onboarded into the incubation cohort, which includes the formal disbursement of the grant and access to the incubation facilities at IIT (BHU).

Before you apply to I-DAPT HUB Incubation Cohort 3 , IIT (BHU) Varanasi, 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.

I-DAPT HUB Incubation Cohort 3 , IIT (BHU) Varanasi 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.