iDEX Prime Re Open
Up to ₹10 crore for IAF deep-tech defence challenges.
- Funding amount
- ₹10Cr (competition)
- Funding type
- Competition
- Provider
- Defence Innovation Organisation (Government)
- Application deadline
- Closed (9 Mar 2026)
- Eligible stage
- Any stage
- Location
- Open to startups registered in India
Overview
The iDEX Prime Re-Open challenge is a high-value defence innovation initiative by the Defence Innovation Organisation (DIO) under the Ministry of Defence, part of the Innovations for Defence Excellence (iDEX) framework. This re-launch presents two advanced problem statements from the Indian Air Force (IAF) to develop mission-critical defence technologies in collaboration with MSMEs, startups, and individual innovators.
The first challenge is to develop a UAS-based Electronic Support Measures (ESM) system for SIGINT operations in hilly terrain and high-altitude areas, integrating tethered drones on vehicle platforms, ELINT payloads, encrypted SATCOM data transmission, real-time localisation of adversary electronic warfare emitters, and operational capability up to 4 km AMSL. The second challenge seeks an inflatable or modular all-weather sun shelter for fighter aircraft and helicopters that is rapidly deployable, modular, transportable across difficult terrain, resistant to harsh weather, fire-retardant, thermally insulated, with HVAC systems, and designed to reduce enemy satellite-based surveillance exposure, supporting operations up to 4.5 km AMSL and scalable for larger aircraft.
Selected innovators receive grant support of up to ₹10 crore to develop and demonstrate advanced prototypes. Through structured evaluation, pitch sessions, and milestone-based monitoring, iDEX Prime strengthens India's defence innovation ecosystem by supporting high-value, deep-tech solutions aligned with national security priorities.
Highlights
- Grant support of up to ₹10 crore per selected innovation.
- Two high-priority IAF challenges: UAS-based ESM system for SIGINT and all-weather sun shelter for aircraft.
- Open to Indian MSMEs, startups, and individual innovators.
- Milestone-based funding with structured evaluation and pitch sessions.
- Supports deep-tech indigenous defence technologies.
- Part of the iDEX framework under the Ministry of Defence.
Who can apply
The program is open to Indian MSMEs, Indian startups, and individual innovators. Applicants must propose solutions addressing either of the specified Indian Air Force problem statements. Solutions must align with the defined technical and operational requirements in the respective challenge briefs. Applications must be submitted through the official iDEX portal.
iDEX Prime Re Open 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
The most recent application window for iDEX Prime Re Open closed on 9 Mar 2026. Many programmes run repeat cohorts, so it is worth checking the official site for the next round.
What the funding covers
Selected innovators qualify for grant support of up to ₹10 crore to develop and demonstrate advanced prototype systems aligned with operational requirements. The funding is milestone-based, with structured evaluation and pitch sessions to monitor progress.
About the provider
iDEX Prime Re Open 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.
How to apply
Applications are submitted on the official portal. Confirm the current deadline and document checklist there before you start.
Selection process
Applications undergo structured screening and technical evaluation by iDEX and defence stakeholders. Shortlisted innovators are invited to pitch sessions, followed by milestone-based monitoring of prototype development and demonstration.
Documents you’ll need
Before you apply to iDEX Prime Re Open, 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 Prime Re Open is best suited for startups in India seeking non-dilutive funding of ₹10Cr. If that describes your startup, review the eligibility criteria above before applying.
Frequently asked questions
What is the maximum funding amount offered under iDEX Prime Re-Open?
Selected innovators can receive grant support of up to ₹10 crore.
What is the application deadline for iDEX Prime Re-Open?
The deadline for submission is 9th March 2026.
Who is eligible to apply for this program?
Indian MSMEs, Indian startups, and individual innovators are eligible to apply.
Are there any specific technology areas or challenges I must address?
Yes, applicants must propose solutions for one of the two specified Indian Air Force problem statements: a UAS-based ESM system for SIGINT operations or an all-weather sun shelter for fighter aircraft and helicopters.
Do I need DPIIT or MSME registration to apply?
No, the program does not require DPIIT registration. However, it is open to Indian MSMEs, startups, and individuals.
Does the program take equity from the selected innovators?
No, iDEX Prime is a grant program, so it does not take any equity. The funding is non-dilutive.
How do I apply for iDEX Prime Re-Open?
Applications must be submitted through the official iDEX portal under the iDEX Prime Re-Open category. Proposals should detail the technical architecture, feasibility, deployment plan, and alignment with the specified IAF challenge requirements.
What documents are typically required in the proposal?
The proposal should include a technical architecture description, feasibility analysis, deployment plan, and alignment with the challenge requirements. Specific documents may be requested during the application process on the iDEX portal.
Can I apply if my startup is not registered as an MSME?
Yes, the program is open to Indian startups and individual innovators in addition to MSMEs, so MSME registration is not mandatory.
What happens after I submit my application?
Applications undergo structured screening and technical evaluation by iDEX and defence stakeholders. Shortlisted innovators are invited to pitch sessions, and selected projects receive milestone-based funding with monitoring.
Who offers iDEX Prime Re Open?
iDEX Prime Re Open is offered by Defence Innovation Organisation, a government body. It is provided as non-dilutive funding.
More funding from Defence Innovation Organisation
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Alternatives to iDEX Prime Re Open
Not sure iDEX Prime Re Open is the right fit, or already applied? These are other grants open to Indian startups that founders shortlist alongside it.
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