IIITB COMET Foundation 5G Startup Incubation Program
Grant-based incubation for startups building 5G infrastructure and applications, run by IIITB Innovation Centre.
- Funding amount
- Varies by program
- Funding type
- Grant
- Provider
- IIITB Innovation Centre (Academic)
- Application deadline
- Closed (2 Jan 2026)
- Eligible stage
- Any stage
- Location
- Open to startups registered in India
Overview
The IIITB COMET Foundation 5G Startup Incubation Program is a grant-based initiative by the IIITB Innovation Centre that supports innovators working on 5G infrastructure and next-generation 5G applications. The program aims to nurture talent in advanced communication systems to drive the Industry 4.0 era. It focuses on areas such as smart cities, agriculture, logistics, healthcare, manufacturing, sustainable technology, IoT/IIoT, deep-tech solutions, and AI/ML & AR/VR solutions that leverage 5G and advanced communications.
Highlights
- Grant-based funding for 5G infrastructure and application development.
- Focus on Industry 4.0 and advanced communication systems.
- Open to startups and individual innovators.
- Covers multiple sectors: smart cities, agriculture, healthcare, manufacturing, sustainability, IoT, deep-tech, AI/ML, AR/VR.
- Run by IIITB Innovation Centre with incubation support.
Who can apply
Startups or individual innovators working on 5G Infrastructure Development or 5G Applications in the following domains are eligible: smart city (intelligent traffic management, smart street lighting, waste management), agriculture, logistics, healthcare, manufacturing (5G-powered IoT devices and middleware for crop health monitoring and real-time field weed control), sustainable technology (smart grids, connected city infrastructure), IoT/IIoT, deep-tech solutions leveraging 5G & advanced communications, and AI/ML & AR/VR solutions leveraging 5G & advanced communications.
IIITB COMET Foundation 5G Startup Incubation Program 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 IIITB COMET Foundation 5G Startup Incubation Program closed on 2 Jan 2026. Many programmes run repeat cohorts, so it is worth checking the official site for the next round.
What the funding covers
Selected participants receive grant funding (amount varies) to support their 5G-focused projects. The program also provides incubation support, mentorship, and access to IIITB's innovation ecosystem to help startups develop and scale their solutions.
About the provider
IIITB COMET Foundation 5G Startup Incubation Program is offered by IIITB Innovation Centre, an academic institution. It is delivered directly by IIITB Innovation Centre as a grant. You can verify current details and timelines on the provider's official website before applying.
Documents you’ll need
Before you apply to IIITB COMET Foundation 5G Startup Incubation Program, 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.
Frequently asked questions
What is the IIITB COMET Foundation 5G Startup Incubation Program?
It is a grant-based incubation program by IIITB Innovation Centre that supports innovators developing 5G infrastructure and next-generation 5G applications.
How much funding is offered?
The funding amount varies and is provided as a grant.
What is the application deadline?
The deadline for applications is January 2, 2026.
Who can apply to this program?
Startups or innovators working on 5G infrastructure development or 5G applications in areas like smart city, agriculture, logistics, healthcare, manufacturing, sustainable technology, IoT/IIoT, deep-tech, AI/ML, and AR/VR are eligible.
Is there any specific stage required for eligibility?
The program does not specify a particular stage, but it is open to startups and innovators, suggesting early-stage ventures can apply.
Does the program take equity?
No, the program offers grant funding, which is non-dilutive and does not require giving up equity.
How do I apply for the program?
You can apply through the program's website at https://comet.iiitb.ac.in/.
What documents are typically needed for application?
The program does not list specific documents, but applicants should be prepared to submit a detailed proposal about their 5G-related project.
Is DPIIT recognition required for IIITB COMET Foundation 5G Startup Incubation Program?
No. DPIIT (Startup India) recognition is not listed as a mandatory requirement for IIITB COMET Foundation 5G Startup Incubation Program, though having it can strengthen your application and unlock other benefits.
Who offers IIITB COMET Foundation 5G Startup Incubation Program?
IIITB COMET Foundation 5G Startup Incubation Program is offered by IIITB Innovation Centre, an academic institution. It is provided as non-dilutive funding.
More funding from IIITB Innovation Centre
IIITB Innovation Centre runs 2 other programs listed on startupfunds — compare them before you decide where to apply.
Alternatives to IIITB COMET Foundation 5G Startup Incubation Program
Not sure IIITB COMET Foundation 5G Startup Incubation Program is the right fit, or already applied? These are other grants open to Indian startups that founders shortlist alongside it.
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