Moonshot Awards 2026
Equity-free grants up to ₹49.8L and two-year mentorship for young innovators aged 15-30 tackling UN SDGs.
- Funding amount
- ₹4.2L – ₹49.8L (competition)
- Funding type
- Competition
- Provider
- Moonshot Platform (NGO/Foundation)
- Application deadline
- Closed (13 Jul 2026)
- Eligible stage
- Any stage
- Location
- Open to startups registered in India
Overview
The Moonshot Awards 2026 is a global competition by the Moonshot Platform that identifies and supports exceptional young changemakers aged 15-30. It is designed for startup founders, scientists, builders, and advocates who are developing bold solutions aligned with the UN Sustainable Development Goals. The program offers equity-free grant funding between ₹4.2L and ₹49.8L, along with a two-year mentorship and support program. Winners gain global recognition, networking opportunities, and strategic guidance to scale their impact. The awards aim to accelerate progress towards the UN SDGs by empowering early-stage innovators with both capital and a robust ecosystem for growth.
Highlights
- Equity-free grants up to ₹49.8 lakh
- Two-year mentorship program
- Global recognition and networking
- Open to changemakers aged 15-30
- Solutions aligned with UN SDGs
- Supports prototype, plan, or proof-of-concept stages
Who can apply
Applicants must be between 15 and 30 years old as of 1 July 2026. The competition is open worldwide, including India, to individuals or teams. Eligible solutions must have a working prototype, a defined plan, or a proof of concept. All submissions must clearly align with one or more UN Sustainable Development Goals and demonstrate potential for significant positive impact. Applications must be submitted in English.
Moonshot Awards 2026 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 Moonshot Awards 2026 closed on 13 Jul 2026. Many programmes run repeat cohorts, so it is worth checking the official site for the next round.
What the funding covers
Winners receive equity-free grants ranging from ₹4.15 lakh (US$5,000) to ₹49.8 lakh (US$60,000), with no equity taken, allowing founders to retain full ownership. Additionally, the program includes a two-year mentorship and support program featuring: - Access to experienced mentors and industry experts. - Specialized workshops and skill-building sessions. - Networking opportunities with global leaders and investors. - Strategic guidance to help scale their solutions. - Significant global recognition and visibility within the innovation ecosystem.
About the provider
Moonshot Awards 2026 is offered by Moonshot Platform, a non-profit foundation. It is delivered directly by Moonshot Platform as a competition. 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
The selection process is rigorous and multi-stage. First, applications undergo an initial screening for eligibility, completeness, and alignment with the UN SDGs. Then, a selection committee of experts evaluates proposals based on innovation, feasibility, potential for scalable impact, and the applicant’s vision and commitment. Shortlisted candidates may be invited for virtual interviews or presentations before final awardees are chosen.
Documents you’ll need
Before you apply to Moonshot Awards 2026, 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
Moonshot Awards 2026 is best suited for startups in India seeking non-dilutive funding of ₹4.2L – ₹49.8L. If that describes your startup, review the eligibility criteria above before applying.
Frequently asked questions
How much funding can I receive from the Moonshot Awards?
Grants range from ₹4.15 lakh (US$5,000) to ₹49.8 lakh (US$60,000), entirely equity-free.
What is the application deadline?
Applications must be submitted by 12 July 2026, 23:59 Pacific Time.
Who is eligible to apply?
The awards are open to anyone aged 15 to 30 as of 1 July 2026, including individuals and teams from anywhere in the world. You need a working prototype, a defined plan, or a proof of concept aligned with the UN SDGs.
Do I need to be a registered company or have DPIIT/MSME registration?
No, incorporation is not required. Startup founders, scientists, builders, advocates, and even non-commercial projects are welcome as long as they meet the age and solution requirements.
Does the program take equity?
No, the grant is entirely equity-free. Winners retain full ownership of their venture.
What kind of support is provided besides funding?
A two-year mentorship program with access to mentors, workshops, networking with global leaders and investors, and strategic guidance to scale your solution.
What documents are typically required for the application?
The online application asks for details about you/your team, your solution, its alignment with UN SDGs, and your current progress (prototype, plan, or proof of concept). Specific document lists are not provided, but all submissions must be in English.
How and where do I apply?
Visit the official Moonshot Platform application page at https://www.moonshotplatform.org/apply and complete the online form before the deadline.
What are the selection criteria?
Applications are evaluated on innovation, feasibility, potential for scalable impact, alignment with UN SDGs, and the applicant's vision and commitment. Shortlisted candidates may be interviewed.
Who offers Moonshot Awards 2026?
Moonshot Awards 2026 is offered by Moonshot Platform, a non-profit foundation. It is provided as non-dilutive funding.
How do I apply for Moonshot Awards 2026?
Apply directly through the official application link on this page. Review the eligibility criteria and prepare your startup documents before you begin.
Alternatives to Moonshot Awards 2026
Not sure Moonshot Awards 2026 is the right fit, or already applied? These are other grants open to Indian startups that founders shortlist alongside it.
Questions from founders
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