Innovations for Defence Excellence (iDEX)
A Ministry of Defence initiative providing grants, mentorship, and test facilities to startups and innovators developing solutions for Defence and Aerospace.
- Funding amount
- Varies by program
- Funding type
- Grant
- Provider
- Ministry of Defence (Government)
- Application deadline
- Rolling
- Eligible stage
- Any stage
- Location
- Open to startups registered in India
Overview
Innovations for Defence Excellence (iDEX) is a flagship initiative by the Ministry of Defence aimed at promoting innovation and self-reliance in the Defence and Aerospace sector. It engages startups, MSMEs, individual innovators, R&D institutes, and academia to develop cutting-edge technologies. Through structured challenges such as the Defence India Startup Challenges (DISC) and Open Challenges, iDEX identifies and supports promising solutions. Selected participants receive financial support in the form of grants, along with mentorship and access to test facilities, enabling them to turn their ideas into deployable products for the Indian defence ecosystem.
Highlights
- Offers grants, mentorship, and access to test facilities for defence and aerospace innovations.
- Open to DPIIT-recognized startups, MSMEs, and individual innovators (who must incorporate a startup before grant agreement).
- Engages through structured challenges like Defence India Startup Challenges (DISC) and Open Challenges.
- A flagship Ministry of Defence initiative to promote self-reliance (Atmanirbhar Bharat) in defence technology.
Who can apply
Startups must be recognized by DPIIT. Indian companies incorporated under the Companies Act 1956 or 2013, primarily MSMEs, are eligible. Individual innovators may apply but must form a startup before signing the grant agreement. All applicants need to address specific challenges or demonstrate innovative solutions relevant to the Defence and Aerospace sector.
Innovations for Defence Excellence (iDEX) 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
Innovations for Defence Excellence (iDEX) accepts applications on a rolling basis — there is no fixed cut-off date, so eligible startups can apply at any time. Because rolling programmes can pause without notice, confirm the window is still open on the official site before you start.
What the funding covers
Selected innovations receive financial support in the form of grants. Beyond funding, iDEX provides mentorship and access to test facilities to help develop and refine the proposed solutions. This combination aims to accelerate the journey from concept to deployment within the defence ecosystem.
About the provider
Innovations for Defence Excellence (iDEX) is offered by Ministry of Defence, 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 Innovations for Defence Excellence (iDEX), 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 iDEX?
iDEX stands for Innovations for Defence Excellence, an initiative by the Ministry of Defence to foster innovation in the Defence and Aerospace sector by supporting startups, MSMEs, and individual innovators through grants, mentorship, and test facilities.
How much funding can I get from iDEX?
The funding amount varies depending on the challenge and the proposal. Exact amounts are not specified; applicants are evaluated on the merit of their proposals.
What is the application deadline for iDEX?
The deadline is not specified. Applicants should regularly check the iDEX portal for open challenges and their respective closing dates.
Who is eligible to apply for iDEX?
DPIIT-recognized startups, Indian companies (primarily MSMEs) incorporated under the Companies Act 1956/2013, and individual innovators are eligible. Individual innovators must form a startup before the grant agreement is signed.
Does iDEX take equity in my startup?
No, iDEX provides grants, which are non-dilutive. It does not take equity in your startup.
What documents are needed for the iDEX application?
Typically, you will need a Company Incorporation Certificate, DPIIT/MSME registration, financial statements, and a technical and financial proposal including details of patents and a tentative business plan.
How do I apply to iDEX?
You apply through the iDEX portal at https://idex.gov.in/. Browse open challenges under DISC, Open Challenge, iDEX Prime, ADITI, etc., select a relevant challenge, and fill out the online application form with required documents.
What sectors does iDEX focus on?
iDEX focuses exclusively on the Defence and Aerospace sector, seeking innovative solutions that address specific defence needs.
Can individual innovators apply without a registered company?
Yes, individual innovators can apply, but they must form a startup (registered entity) before the grant agreement is executed.
Is DPIIT recognition required for Innovations for Defence Excellence (iDEX)?
No. DPIIT (Startup India) recognition is not listed as a mandatory requirement for Innovations for Defence Excellence (iDEX), though having it can strengthen your application and unlock other benefits.
Who offers Innovations for Defence Excellence (iDEX)?
Innovations for Defence Excellence (iDEX) is offered by Ministry of Defence, a government body. It is provided as non-dilutive funding.
Alternatives to Innovations for Defence Excellence (iDEX)
Not sure Innovations for Defence Excellence (iDEX) is the right fit, or already applied? These are other grants open to Indian startups that founders shortlist alongside it.
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