iDEX Open Challenge by DIO

The iDEX Open Challenge is part of the Innovations for Defence Excellence (iDEX) initiative, implemented by the Defence Innovation Organisation (DIO). It provides a structured opportunity for Indian startups, individual innovators, and MSMEs to submit breakthrough technologies that can enhance India's defence and aerospace capabilities. The challenge covers a wide range of technology domains—aerospace, autonomous systems, artificial intelligence, quantum technologies, advanced materials, intelligent machines, predictive algorithms, and other defence-related deep-tech areas. Unlike problem-specific challenges, this open category allows innovators to propose original solutions with potential defence applications.

Selected participants get the chance to present their ideas to the iDEX Grand Jury. High-potential proposals can receive grants of up to ₹1.5 crore, disbursed over milestones. The programme runs continuously through cycles, enabling ongoing participation. It also connects innovators with the defence ecosystem through DIO and its partner incubators.

• Grants up to ₹1.5 crore, non-dilutive and equity-free.
• Open to Indian startups, individual innovators, and MSMEs at any stage.
• Covers broad defence technology themes including AI, quantum, aerospace, autonomous systems, advanced materials, and more.
• No DPIIT or MSME registration required.
• Opportunity to pitch solutions directly to the iDEX Grand Jury and engage with the defence ecosystem.
• Applications are free and cycles run throughout the year.

The programme is open to Indian startups (at any stage—from idea to profitable), individual innovators, and MSMEs. Eligible entity types include individuals, LLPs, partnerships, private limited companies, and proprietorships. There is no requirement for DPIIT recognition or MSME registration. Proposed solutions must be applicable in defence and aerospace sectors, covering domains such as aerospace, autonomous systems, AI, quantum tech, advanced materials, intelligent machines, predictive algorithms, and related deep-tech areas. Proposals can address one or more of these themes.

iDEX Open Challenge by DIO is open to startups at the idea, product, revenue and profitable stage working in space drone defense and deeptech electronics robotics. It is open to startups registered anywhere in India. Applicants should be registered as individual, llp and partnership.

The most recent application window for iDEX Open Challenge by DIO closed on 30 Jun 2026. Many programmes run repeat cohorts, so it is worth checking the official site for the next round.

• Grants of up to ₹1.5 crore, disbursed in milestone-based tranches.
• Direct engagement with the armed forces and defence ecosystem.
• Access to DIO and Partner Incubator network.
• Opportunity to pilot solutions with the military.
• Visibility through the iDEX Grand Jury showcase.
• Potential follow-on investment via SIDBI iDEX Seed Fund and other iDEX-linked instruments.

iDEX Open Challenge by DIO is offered by Defence Innovation Organisation, 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.

Applications are evaluated through a multi-stage process:

1. Register on iDEX Portal and Submit Proposal: Complete registration and propose your technology with description, applications, and feasibility evidence.
2. Eligibility & Fit Screening: Initial check for defence/aerospace applicability and eligibility.
3. Technical Evaluation: Subject experts assess the novelty, defence relevance, team capability, and feasibility of demonstration.
4. iDEX Grand Jury Pitch: Shortlisted innovators present directly to the Grand Jury, which selects winners.
5. Contracting & Milestone Disbursement: Winners sign a SPARC-style contract and receive funds in milestones as they achieve deliverables.

Before you apply to iDEX Open Challenge by DIO, 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 by DIO 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.