Samsung Research Open Innovation Challenge by StartupTN
Samsung Research and StartupTN collaborate to offer grant funding, mentorship, and partnership opportunities for startups developing PoCs in key technology areas like AI, XR, Health, and more.
- Funding amount
- Varies by program
- Funding type
- Grant
- Provider
- Samsung Research (Corporate)
- Application deadline
- Closed (15 Nov 2025)
- Eligible stage
- Any stage
- Location
- Open to startups registered in India
Overview
The Samsung Research Open Innovation Challenge, run in partnership with StartupTN, seeks startups with groundbreaking ideas that can be transformed into reality through collaborative development. The program focuses on building Proof of Concept (PoC) projects in technology areas relevant to Samsung Mobile and future products. Selected startups receive grant funding (no equity taken), expert mentorship from Samsung's talent network, and potential partnership and investment opportunities with Samsung Research/Mobile.
Highlights
- Grant funding with no equity dilution.
- Mentorship from Samsung experts.
- Focus on AI, XR, Health, Foldable, Camera, Audio, Power, Wearable, Sensors, Materials, Connectivity, or ESG.
- Requires a 6-month PoC project proposal.
- Potential for partnership and investment with Samsung Research/Mobile.
Who can apply
The program is open to startups and other legal entities. Applicants must address one of the key focus areas: AI, XR, Health, Foldable, Camera, Audio, Power, Wearable, Sensors, Materials, Connectivity, or ESG. A 6-month project proposal describing the PoC development plan and its potential benefits is required.
Samsung Research Open Innovation Challenge by StartupTN 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 Samsung Research Open Innovation Challenge by StartupTN closed on 15 Nov 2025. Many programmes run repeat cohorts, so it is worth checking the official site for the next round.
What the funding covers
- Grant Funding (No Equity) to support the PoC development plan.
- Expert Mentorship from Samsung experts and talent network.
- Potential Partnership & Investment Opportunities with Samsung Research/Mobile.
About the provider
Samsung Research Open Innovation Challenge by StartupTN is offered by Samsung Research, a corporate programme. It is delivered directly by Samsung Research as a grant. You can verify current details and timelines on the provider's official website before applying.
Documents you’ll need
Before you apply to Samsung Research Open Innovation Challenge by StartupTN, 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 amount of grant funding varies and is not specified. It is intended to support the PoC development plan.
What is the application deadline?
The deadline is 15 November 2025.
Who is eligible to apply?
Startups and other legal entities are eligible. The solution must address one of the focus areas: AI, XR, Health, Foldable, Camera, Audio, Power, Wearable, Sensors, Materials, Connectivity, or ESG. A 6-month PoC project proposal is required.
Is DPIIT or MSME registration required?
The program does not specify any requirement for DPIIT or MSME registration.
Does the program take equity?
No, the grant funding is provided without equity. No equity is taken.
What documents are typically needed?
Applicants must submit a 6-month project proposal describing the PoC development plan and its potential benefits. No other specific documents are listed.
How and where do I apply?
Applications are accepted through the StartupTN Open Innovation platform. The link is available on the official challenge page.
What are the focus technology areas?
The focus areas are AI, XR, Health, Foldable, Camera, Audio, Power, Wearable, Sensors, Materials, Connectivity, and ESG.
What do selected startups receive besides funding?
Selected startups receive expert mentorship from Samsung experts and talent network, as well as potential partnership and investment opportunities with Samsung Research/Mobile.
Who offers Samsung Research Open Innovation Challenge by StartupTN?
Samsung Research Open Innovation Challenge by StartupTN is offered by Samsung Research, a corporate programme. It is provided as non-dilutive funding.
How do I apply for Samsung Research Open Innovation Challenge by StartupTN?
Apply directly through the official application link on this page. Review the eligibility criteria and prepare your startup documents before you begin.
Alternatives to Samsung Research Open Innovation Challenge by StartupTN
Not sure Samsung Research Open Innovation Challenge by StartupTN is the right fit, or already applied? These are other grants open to Indian startups that founders shortlist alongside it.
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