OctaNE Open Challenge Program (OCP): Animation 9.0

The OctaNE Open Challenge Program (OCP): Animation 9.0 is an initiative designed to foster innovation and growth within India's animation sector. This program, spearheaded by the Software Technology Parks of India (STPI), provides crucial incubation support and seed funding to promising animation startups.

It aims to identify and nurture ventures that are developing original products, services, or processes in the animation domain. By offering financial assistance and a supportive environment, the program helps these startups scale their operations and contribute to the vibrant Indian animation industry.

The OCP: Animation 9.0 specifically targets startups that are ready to innovate and make a significant impact, providing them with the resources needed to transform their ideas into successful businesses.

• Seed funding up to ₹25 lakh as a grant.
• Incubation support for animation startups.
• Program by Software Technology Parks of India (STPI).
• Application deadline is May 11, 2026.
• Open to Indian-incorporated Private Limited, Partnership, or LLP entities.
• Incubation provided at STPI Shillong.

To be considered for the OctaNE Open Challenge Program (OCP): Animation 9.0, startups must meet specific criteria:

• Incorporation: The entity must be legally incorporated in India. Acceptable legal structures include Private Limited Company, Partnership, or Limited Liability Partnership (LLP).
• Age of Business: The startup should not be more than ten years old from its date of incorporation.
• Annual Turnover: The venture's annual turnover must not exceed ₹100 Crore in any financial year since its incorporation.
• Focus Area: The startup must be an original venture actively engaged in developing animation products, services, or processes.
• Registration Status: Startups that are not yet officially registered must complete their registration within three months of their selection into the program.

OctaNE Open Challenge Program (OCP): Animation 9.0 is open to startups at any stage. It is open to startups registered anywhere in India.

The most recent application window for OctaNE Open Challenge Program (OCP): Animation 9.0 closed on 11 May 2026. Many programmes run repeat cohorts, so it is worth checking the official site for the next round.

The OctaNE Open Challenge Program (OCP): Animation 9.0 offers significant financial and incubation support to selected startups.

• Seed Funding: Successful applicants can receive a grant of up to ₹25 lakh. As this is a grant, it is non-dilutive, meaning the program does not take an equity stake in the startup.
• Incubation Support: Beyond financial aid, the program provides comprehensive incubation services. This support is delivered through the Software Technology Parks of India (STPI) facility located in Shillong, offering a conducive environment for growth and development.

OctaNE Open Challenge Program (OCP): Animation 9.0 is offered by Software Technology Parks of India (STPI), 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.

Before you apply to OctaNE Open Challenge Program (OCP): Animation 9.0, 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.

OctaNE Open Challenge Program (OCP): Animation 9.0 is best suited for startups in India seeking non-dilutive funding of ₹25L. If that describes your startup, review the eligibility criteria above before applying.