Nitto Denko Startup Innovation Challenge: Flexible Sensing at SINE
A 3-month paid PoC challenge for DPIIT-registered startups developing flexible sensing solutions, run by SINE IIT Bombay and Nitto Denko.
- Funding amount
- Varies by program
- Funding type
- Grant
- Provider
- SINE, IIT Bombay (Academic)
- Application deadline
- Closed (11 Nov 2025)
- Eligible stage
- Any stage
- Location
- Open to startups registered in India
Overview
The Nitto Denko Startup Innovation Challenge is a collaborative program between SINE IIT Bombay and Nitto Denko Corporation, aimed at advancing innovations in flexible sensing technologies. The program seeks startups that can leverage Nitto Denko's highly flexible and stretchable sensors—which measure angular displacement, flexing, strain, torsion, or force sensing—to create novel solutions. The program runs for three months and offers a Paid Proof-of-Concept (PoC) opportunity with milestone-based funding. Selected startups receive mentorship from Nitto Denko's technical experts and SINE's mentors in business modeling and go-to-market strategy, as well as access to SINE's lab infrastructure as per guidelines. The program culminates in a Demo Day where startups can showcase their solution to Nitto Denko leadership for potential strategic partnership.
Highlights
- 3-month paid PoC opportunity with milestone-based funding
- Mentorship from Nitto Denko technical experts and SINE IIT Bombay
- Access to SINE's lab infrastructure
- Opportunity to pitch at Demo Day to Nitto Denko leadership for strategic partnership
- Open only to DPIIT-registered startups at MVP or post-MVP stage
- Focus on flexible sensing: flexing, stretching, strain, torsion, force sensing
Who can apply
Only DPIIT-registered startups are eligible. The startup must be at the MVP (Minimum Viable Product) or post-MVP stage. The solution must involve flexing, stretching, strain, torsion, or force sensing. Applicable domains include wearables and smart textiles; healthcare, rehabilitation, and assistive technologies; industrial robotics and automation; automotive and mobility solutions; and consumer electronics and IoT.
Nitto Denko Startup Innovation Challenge: Flexible Sensing at SINE 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 Nitto Denko Startup Innovation Challenge: Flexible Sensing at SINE closed on 11 Nov 2025. Many programmes run repeat cohorts, so it is worth checking the official site for the next round.
What the funding covers
- Paid PoC Opportunity: Milestone-based funding during the 3-month program.
- Mentorship: Access to Nitto Denko's technical experts and SINE's mentors for business modeling and go-to-market strategy.
- Infrastructure: Access to SINE's lab infrastructure as per guidelines.
- Strategic Partnership: Opportunity to present at Demo Day to Nitto Denko leadership for potential long-term collaboration.
About the provider
Nitto Denko Startup Innovation Challenge: Flexible Sensing at SINE is offered by SINE, IIT Bombay, an academic institution. It is delivered directly by SINE, IIT Bombay as a grant. 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 are submitted via the online link before the deadline. Proposals are evaluated based on the innovation's use of flexible sensing technology and its potential for market viability and scalability in the focus areas. Selected startups then enter the 3-month program with milestone-based PoC development and mentorship. Finally, startups showcase their solution at Demo Day.
Documents you’ll need
Before you apply to Nitto Denko Startup Innovation Challenge: Flexible Sensing at SINE, 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
How much funding is offered?
The funding amount is not specified; it is described as a 'Paid PoC Opportunity' with milestone-based progress tracking.
What is the application deadline?
The deadline is November 11, 2025.
What stage should my startup be in?
Your startup must be at the MVP (Minimum Viable Product) or post-MVP stage.
What technologies are eligible?
Solutions must involve flexible sensing, specifically flexing, stretching, strain, torsion, or force sensing. Domains include wearables, healthcare, industrial robotics, automotive, consumer electronics, and IoT.
Do I need DPIIT registration?
Yes, the program requires applicants to be DPIIT-registered startups.
Does the program take equity?
No, this is a grant-based program in the form of a paid PoC opportunity. No equity is mentioned.
Where do I apply?
Applications are submitted via the online link provided on the SINE IIT Bombay website.
What is the program duration?
The program runs for three months.
What documents are typically needed?
Specific document requirements are not listed, but you will likely need to submit details of your startup, DPIIT registration, and a proposal describing your solution and how it uses flexible sensing.
Can international startups apply?
The eligibility does not specify any geographic restriction, but since it requires DPIIT registration, it is likely limited to Indian startups.
Who is eligible to apply for Nitto Denko Startup Innovation Challenge: Flexible Sensing at SINE?
Nitto Denko Startup Innovation Challenge: Flexible Sensing at SINE is open to startups at any stage. It is open to startups registered anywhere in India.
Who offers Nitto Denko Startup Innovation Challenge: Flexible Sensing at SINE?
Nitto Denko Startup Innovation Challenge: Flexible Sensing at SINE is offered by SINE, IIT Bombay, an academic institution. It is provided as non-dilutive funding.
How do I apply for Nitto Denko Startup Innovation Challenge: Flexible Sensing at SINE?
Apply directly through the official application link on this page. Review the eligibility criteria and prepare your startup documents before you begin.
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