Orbit — AIC T-Hub SpaceTech Incubation Program

Orbit, operated by AIC T-Hub in Hyderabad, is one of India's first sector-specific incubators dedicated entirely to space technology. The program targets early-stage startups, helping them progress from an idea or proof-of-concept through to commercialization. It covers a wide range of space-related domains, including satellite technology, spacecraft, orbital launch vehicles, space communication, space materials, space tourism, and uplink/downlink infrastructure.

The structured curriculum spans 24 weeks and is divided into three phases. During the Assess phase (weeks 1–4), startups work on company structure, idea validation, founder mindset, milestone identification, and business model development. In the Learn phase (weeks 5–20), participants attend talks on government initiatives, the global space market, and low-cost manufacturing, along with workshops on India space policy, legal and compliance, financial modelling, go-to-market strategy, and brand/marketing. Weekly one-on-one problem-solving sessions and monthly milestone tracking are also part of this phase. The Deliver phase (weeks 20–24) focuses on funding readiness, exclusive investor pitches, deck reviews, and knowledge visits to Skyroot Aerospace and ISRO labs.

The program fee is ₹50,000 plus GST, payable after selection. Orbit does not provide direct funding; instead, it gives startups structured access to grants, angel investors, venture capital, working capital, and debt financing through AIC T-Hub's ecosystem partners. Mentors include ex-ISRO scientists and industry leaders such as Radha Krishna Kavuluru, Dr. Seshagiri Rao, Sanjay Nekkati (Dhruva Space), and Pavan Kumar (Skyroot). The program has incubated 23 startups that collectively raised over ₹30.55 crore in funding. Notable alumni include SpanTrik, Onnes Cryogenics, Taramandal, STEM & Space, and Nalwa Aero. Participants also gain access to over 290 mentors, 200+ MNCs and corporates, 100+ investors, and international partnerships in Australia, France, and the USA.

• 24-week paid SpaceTech incubation program with a fee of ₹50,000 plus GST.
• Mentorship from ex-ISRO scientists and industry experts like the CEO of Skyroot Aerospace.
• Access to over 290 mentors, 200+ corporates, 100+ investors, and international space-tech ecosystems (Australia, France, USA).
• Three-phase curriculum: Assess (weeks 1–4), Learn (weeks 5–20), Deliver (weeks 20–24) with knowledge visits to Skyroot and ISRO labs.
• No equity taken (program is fee-based, not a funding).
• Notable alumni have raised over ₹30.55 crore collectively.

Orbit is open to early-stage startups, from the idea stage to those generating early revenue, that are incorporated and registered in India. Preference is given to startups at Technology Readiness Level (TRL) 3 or above. While a proof of concept or pilot is preferred, it is not mandatory. Eligible sectors include satellite technology, spacecraft, space tourism, orbital launch vehicles, space communication, space materials, and uplink/downlink infrastructure. The program accepts private limited companies and LLPs only. There are no published requirements regarding founder residency, DPIIT registration, or MSME registration.

Orbit — AIC T-Hub SpaceTech Incubation Program is open to startups at the idea, product and revenue stage working in space drone defense. It is open to startups registered anywhere in India. Applicants should be registered as private limited and llp.

Orbit — AIC T-Hub SpaceTech Incubation Program 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.

Selected startups do not receive a direct grant or cheque from the program. Instead, they gain structured access to various funding sources through AIC T-Hub's network of partners, including grants, angel investors, venture capital, working capital, and debt financing. During the Deliver phase, startups undergo funding readiness checks and participate in exclusive one-on-one investor pitches with deck reviews. The core funding benefit is the ecosystem, curriculum, and mentorship that prepare startups to raise capital from external sources.

Orbit — AIC T-Hub SpaceTech Incubation Program is offered by T-Hub, 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.

Interested startups must submit an online application via the AIC T-Hub Zoho portal, providing details about their startup, team, technology stage, and any existing proof of concept or pilot evidence. Shortlisted startups then undergo AIC T-Hub's evaluation and selection process. Selected founders are required to pay the ₹50,000 plus GST program fee and onboard into the 24-week curriculum.

Before you apply to Orbit — AIC T-Hub SpaceTech Incubation Program, keep these documents ready — note the program-specific requirements at the top:

• Certificate of incorporation showing your startup is registered as private limited and llp
• 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.

Orbit — AIC T-Hub SpaceTech Incubation Program is best suited for idea, product and revenue-stage space drone defense startups in India seeking non-dilutive funding. If that describes your startup, review the eligibility criteria above before applying.