IndiaAI Startups Global: International Acceleration Programs for Indian AI Startups - 2026 2nd Cohort
A 4-month international acceleration program by IndiaAI Mission to help high-potential Indian AI startups expand into European markets.
- Funding amount
- ₹5L (grant)
- Funding type
- Grant
- Provider
- IndiaAI (Government)
- Application deadline
- Closed (28 Jun 2026)
- Eligible stage
- Any stage
- Location
- Open to startups registered in India
Overview
The IndiaAI Mission has opened applications for the 2nd Cohort of its International Acceleration Program under the IndiaAI Startups Global initiative. This program is designed for high-potential Indian AI startups aiming to scale into European markets. Selected startups will receive an equity-free grant, expert mentorship, and access to European innovation networks as part of India's National AI Strategy, which emphasises cross-border collaboration and global market integration.
Highlights
- Up to ₹5 lakh prize money
- 4-month international acceleration program
- 3 months onsite in Paris at Station F
- Access to European markets and investors
- Mentorship from HEC Paris & Station F experts
- Equity-free and non-repayable funding
Who can apply
The program is open to high-potential Indian AI startups that have a product ready for global expansion and a clear strategy for entering European markets. The eligibility does not specify industry, state, entity type, DPIIT/MSME registration, or founder demographics (no restrictions mentioned).
IndiaAI Startups Global: International Acceleration Programs for Indian AI Startups - 2026 2nd Cohort 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 IndiaAI Startups Global: International Acceleration Programs for Indian AI Startups - 2026 2nd Cohort closed on 28 Jun 2026. Many programmes run repeat cohorts, so it is worth checking the official site for the next round.
What the funding covers
Up to INR 5 lakh in prize money per startup. The program is equity-free and non-repayable. Benefits include a 4-month acceleration experience with a mandatory 3-month onsite phase at Station F in Paris. Startups gain access to European markets, mentorship from over 1,000 AI experts at Station F and HEC Paris, connections with 500+ investors, dedicated office space in Paris, and strategic business development support for achieving product-market fit in Europe. Other offerings include mentorship, investor access, market access, office space, networking, legal/IP support, training workshops, and incubation support.
About the provider
IndiaAI Startups Global: International Acceleration Programs for Indian AI Startups - 2026 2nd Cohort is offered by IndiaAI, 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.
Documents you’ll need
Before you apply to IndiaAI Startups Global: International Acceleration Programs for Indian AI Startups - 2026 2nd Cohort, 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
IndiaAI Startups Global: International Acceleration Programs for Indian AI Startups - 2026 2nd Cohort is best suited for startups in India seeking non-dilutive funding of ₹5L. If that describes your startup, review the eligibility criteria above before applying.
Frequently asked questions
How much funding is offered by the IndiaAI Startups Global program?
Each selected startup receives up to INR 5 lakh in prize money. The funding is a grant, fully non-repayable, and does not require giving up equity.
What is the deadline to apply for the 2nd Cohort?
The application deadline is June 28, 2026.
Who can apply for this program?
The program is open to high-potential Indian AI startups with products ready for global expansion, especially those looking to enter European markets. No specific restrictions on industry, state, entity type, or registration are mentioned.
Does this program take equity from startups?
No, the IndiaAI Startups Global program is completely equity-free. No equity or stake is taken from participating startups.
Is relocation required for this acceleration program?
Yes, selected startups must be prepared for a mandatory 3-month onsite phase at Station F in Paris, France.
What documents or information do I need to apply?
The online application requires details about your Indian AI startup, product, current market traction, and European expansion strategy. You must attach supporting documents such as a pitch deck, company registration details, and a product demo or links.
How many startups will be selected?
Ten startups will be selected for the 4-month program.
How do I submit my application?
You must submit the online application via the Airtable form provided on the official program page before the deadline.
What is the duration and structure of the program?
The program runs for 4 months, including a 3-month onsite phase at Station F in Paris. It includes mentorship sessions with HEC Paris experts, connections with over 500 investors in the Station F network, and access to office space.
Who can I contact for more information?
For specific application queries, please refer to the details provided in the application form or the official IndiaAI Mission website. No direct contact information is available in the program description.
Is DPIIT recognition required for IndiaAI Startups Global: International Acceleration Programs for Indian AI Startups - 2026 2nd Cohort?
No. DPIIT (Startup India) recognition is not listed as a mandatory requirement for IndiaAI Startups Global: International Acceleration Programs for Indian AI Startups - 2026 2nd Cohort, though having it can strengthen your application and unlock other benefits.
Who offers IndiaAI Startups Global: International Acceleration Programs for Indian AI Startups - 2026 2nd Cohort?
IndiaAI Startups Global: International Acceleration Programs for Indian AI Startups - 2026 2nd Cohort is offered by IndiaAI, a government body. It is provided as non-dilutive funding.
How do I apply for IndiaAI Startups Global: International Acceleration Programs for Indian AI Startups - 2026 2nd Cohort?
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 IndiaAI
IndiaAI runs 2 other programs listed on startupfunds — compare them before you decide where to apply.
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