iDEX Open Challenge
The iDEX Open Challenge invites Indian startups, innovators, and MSMEs to propose cutting-edge technologies and products for the defence and aerospace sectors, offering grants up to ₹1.5 crore and direct engagement with the military.
- Funding amount
- ₹1.5Cr (competition)
- Funding type
- Competition
- Provider
- Innovations for Defence Excellence (iDEX) (Government)
- Application deadline
- 30 Sept 2026
- Eligible stage
- Any stage
- Location
- Open to startups registered in India
Overview
The iDEX Open Challenge is a flagship initiative by the Defence Innovation Organisation (DIO) and Innovations for Defence Excellence (iDEX). It aims to foster innovation in India's defence and aerospace sectors by sourcing next-generation technologies from Indian startups, innovators, and MSMEs. The program focuses on areas such as autonomous systems, intelligent machines, advanced materials, predictive algorithms, and rocket engines. By bridging the gap between innovative engineering talent and military requirements, iDEX seeks to strengthen national security and promote technological self-reliance.
Selected participants receive grants of up to ₹1.5 crore to develop their proposed solutions. Beyond funding, the program offers direct engagement with the military, access to partner incubators, and opportunities to pitch ideas to the iDEX grand jury. This ecosystem support helps transform ideas into market-ready products that can enhance India's defence capabilities.
Highlights
- Grants up to ₹1.5 crore
- Focus on defence & aerospace technology
- Open to startups, individual innovators, and MSMEs
- Direct engagement with the Indian military
- Opportunity to pitch to the iDEX grand jury
- Access to partner incubators and mentorship
Who can apply
Indian startups, individual innovators, and Micro, Small, and Medium Enterprises (MSMEs) are eligible to apply. The proposed solution must have potential applications in the defence or aerospace sectors and should describe its technology and feasibility (e.g., proof-of-concept or prototype). There is no specific requirement for DPIIT registration, but MSMEs need Udyaan registration. The program is open to entities across all Indian states.
iDEX Open Challenge 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
Applications for iDEX Open Challenge are open and the current deadline is 30 Sept 2026. Deadlines can change — always reconfirm on the official source before submitting.
What the funding covers
The iDEX Open Challenge provides grants up to ₹1.5 crore to selected participants. Beneficiaries also get:
- Direct engagement with the military for feedback and potential adoption
- Access to a network of partner incubators offering mentorship and technical support
- Pitching opportunities to the iDEX grand jury, which may lead to further investments
- Incubation support to help convert nascent ideas into deployable solutions
About the provider
iDEX Open Challenge is offered by Innovations for Defence Excellence (iDEX), a government body. As a government-backed competition, 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.
How to apply
Applications are submitted on the official portal. Confirm the current deadline and document checklist there before you start.
Selection process
The selection process involves multiple stages:
-
Online Submission: Proposals are submitted via the official iDEX portal (idex.gov.in). Each proposal must detail the technology, its defence/aerospace applications, and feasibility evidence.
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Screening and Evaluation: The iDEX team and partner incubators review proposals based on novelty, technical feasibility, and alignment with defence needs. Submissions that pass this stage are shortlisted.
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Pitching to Grand Jury: Shortlisted applicants are invited to present their innovations to the iDEX grand jury, which includes senior defence officials, industry experts, and investors. Pitching sessions occur periodically throughout the year.
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Final Selection: The grand jury evaluates proposals on technological merit, strategic relevance, scalability, and team capability. Successful pitches qualify for grants and potential investments.
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Ongoing Support: Selected participants receive grants and support from partner incubators, mentoring, and further investor exposure.
Documents you’ll need
Before you apply to iDEX Open Challenge, 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
iDEX Open Challenge is best suited for startups in India seeking non-dilutive funding of ₹1.5Cr. If that describes your startup, review the eligibility criteria above before applying.
Frequently asked questions
Who is eligible to apply for the iDEX Open Challenge?
Indian startups, individual innovators, and Micro, Small, and Medium Enterprises (MSMEs) can apply, provided their solution has potential defence or aerospace applications.
What are the focus areas of the challenge?
The program seeks innovations in autonomous systems, intelligent machines, advanced materials, predictive algorithms, rocket engines, and other technologies that can enhance defence capabilities.
How much funding does the challenge provide?
Selected participants receive grants of up to ₹1.5 crore to develop their solutions.
What is the deadline to apply?
The application deadline is September 30, 2026.
Is there any application fee?
The provided information does not mention an application fee. It is likely free to apply, but please check the official portal for details.
Does the program require DPIIT registration?
No, DPIIT registration is not mentioned as a requirement. However, MSMEs should have Udyaam registration.
Does the grant involve equity dilution?
No, this is a grant (non-dilutive), so the startup retains full ownership.
What kind of intellectual property rights (IPR) will we retain?
The source does not specify IPR terms. Generally, iDEX programs allow innovators to retain IP, but please verify the conditions on the official portal.
How long does the selection process take?
The timeline is not specified, but pitching sessions are organized periodically. After pitching, decisions can take a few months. Check the iDEX portal for updates.
How and where do we submit an application?
Applications are submitted exclusively through the official iDEX portal at idex.gov.in. You need to prepare a detailed proposal covering the technology, potential applications, and feasibility.
Who offers iDEX Open Challenge?
iDEX Open Challenge is offered by Innovations for Defence Excellence (iDEX), a government body. It is provided as non-dilutive funding.
How do I apply for iDEX Open Challenge?
Apply directly through the official application link on this page. Review the eligibility criteria and prepare your startup documents before you begin.
More funding from Innovations for Defence Excellence (iDEX)
Innovations for Defence Excellence (iDEX) runs another program listed on startupfunds — compare them before you decide where to apply.
Alternatives to iDEX Open Challenge
Not sure iDEX Open Challenge is the right fit, or already applied? These are other grants open to Indian startups that founders shortlist alongside it.
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