iDEX Open Challenge

The iDEX Open Challenge is a premier initiative by the Defence Innovation Organisation (DIO) under the Innovations for Defence Excellence (iDEX) framework. Its core mission is to stimulate innovation and foster entrepreneurship within India's critical defence and aerospace sectors. This program offers a structured pathway for Indian startups, Micro, Small, and Medium Enterprises (MSMEs), and individual innovators to propose groundbreaking technological solutions that can significantly enhance India's military and strategic capabilities.

This challenge encourages a broad spectrum of cutting-edge technologies. It encompasses domains such as aerospace, autonomous systems, artificial intelligence, quantum technologies, advanced materials, intelligent machines, and predictive algorithms, alongside other related defence applications. Unlike challenges with highly specific problem statements, the Open Challenge empowers innovators to bring forward original solutions with diverse potential applications in defence and aerospace environments.

Successful applicants gain a valuable opportunity to present their innovative solutions to the iDEX Grand Jury. Proposals demonstrating high potential may secure grants of up to ₹1.5 crore, alongside prospects for further investment support. The iDEX Open Challenge is conducted periodically throughout the year, ensuring continuous engagement between innovators and key defence stakeholders. Through the support of DIO and its network of partner incubators, participants can directly interact with the armed forces and the broader defence ecosystem.

• Grants of up to ₹1.5 crore for defence and aerospace innovations.
• Open to Indian startups, individual innovators, and MSMEs.
• Focus on cutting-edge technologies like AI, autonomous systems, and quantum tech.
• Equity-free funding; no stake is taken by iDEX.
• Direct engagement and piloting opportunities with the armed forces.
• Application deadline: June 30, 2026.

The iDEX Open Challenge is designed for a diverse range of Indian innovators focused on the defence and aerospace sectors.

• The program is open to Indian startups.
• Individual innovators are also encouraged to apply.
• Micro, Small, and Medium Enterprises (MSMEs) based in India are eligible.
• All proposed solutions must demonstrate clear applicability within the defence and aerospace sectors.
• Proposals can be submitted under a wide array of technology themes. These include, but are not limited to, aerospace, autonomous systems, artificial intelligence, quantum technologies, advanced materials, intelligent machines, predictive algorithms, and other relevant defence-related domains.

Applications for iDEX Open Challenge are open and the current deadline is 30 Jun 2026. Applications are closing soon, so prepare your documents early. Deadlines can change — always reconfirm on the official source before submitting.

Recipients of the iDEX Open Challenge grants gain access to a comprehensive support ecosystem designed to accelerate their defence innovations.

• Direct engagement with the Indian armed forces and the wider defence ecosystem, providing invaluable insights and potential end-user feedback.
• Access to the extensive network of the Defence Innovation Organisation (DIO) and its Partner Incubators, fostering collaboration and mentorship opportunities.
• The unique opportunity to pilot and demonstrate solutions directly with military units, validating technology in real-world scenarios.
• Enhanced visibility for their innovations through a showcase before the prestigious iDEX Grand Jury.
• Potential for follow-on investment through the SIDBI iDEX Seed Fund and other financial instruments linked to the iDEX program, supporting further development and scaling.

iDEX Open Challenge is offered by Defence Innovation Organisation, 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.

Before you apply to iDEX Open Challenge, keep these documents ready — note the program-specific requirements at the top:

• Certificate of incorporation showing your startup is registered as individual and llp
• 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.

iDEX Open Challenge is best suited for idea, product, revenue and profitable-stage space drone defense and deeptech electronics robotics startups in India seeking non-dilutive funding of ₹1.5Cr. If that describes your startup, review the eligibility criteria above before applying.