SPARK Program at SINE, IIT Bombay

The SPARK Program is an impactful initiative focused on scaling up technology-driven startups, jointly launched by the Society for Innovation & Entrepreneurship (SINE), a leading incubator at IIT Bombay, in collaboration with HDFC Bank Parivartan.

This program is specifically designed to assist early-revenue startups that have achieved a Technology Readiness Level (TRL) of 5 or higher. Its primary goal is to help these ventures overcome the challenges of scaling, thereby accelerating their path to commercialization. SPARK places a strong emphasis on fostering startups that can contribute significantly to national impact and enhance global competitiveness, particularly within the deep-tech and advanced technology sectors.

Participants selected for the SPARK Program receive crucial milestone-linked grant support. Beyond funding, they benefit from structured mentorship, unparalleled access to the IIT Bombay innovation ecosystem, and valuable opportunities for increased visibility and collaborative efforts.

• Grant funding up to ₹50 lakhs.
• Offered by SINE, IIT Bombay in partnership with HDFC Bank Parivartan.
• Supports early-revenue, technology-driven startups.
• Requires Technology Readiness Level (TRL) 5 and above.
• Focus on deep-tech and national/global impact.
• Application deadline is January 20, 2026.

The SPARK Program targets early-revenue startups that are deeply rooted in technology. Applicants must demonstrate a Technology Readiness Level (TRL) of 5 or higher, indicating that their technology is validated in a relevant environment. The program aims to support ventures with the potential for national impact and global competitiveness, especially those operating in deep-tech and advanced technology domains. Specific requirements regarding industry, state of operation, or legal entity type are not detailed, but the focus is clearly on technologically mature, revenue-generating startups.

SPARK Program at SINE, IIT Bombay is open to startups at any stage. It is open to startups registered anywhere in India.

The most recent application window for SPARK Program at SINE, IIT Bombay closed on 20 Jan 2026. Many programmes run repeat cohorts, so it is worth checking the official site for the next round.

Recipients of the SPARK Program can secure grant support of up to ₹50 lakhs. This funding is provided on a milestone-linked basis, ensuring that financial assistance is aligned with the startup's progress and achievements.

Beyond the monetary grant, the program offers a comprehensive suite of non-financial benefits designed to accelerate growth. These include structured mentorship from experts within the SINE and IIT Bombay network, extensive ecosystem access to resources and networks, and significant opportunities for visibility within the broader innovation community. Startups also gain avenues for collaboration with various stakeholders, further enhancing their development and market reach.

SPARK Program at SINE, IIT Bombay 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.

Before you apply to SPARK Program at SINE, IIT Bombay, 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.

SPARK Program at SINE, IIT Bombay is best suited for startups in India seeking non-dilutive funding of ₹50L. If that describes your startup, review the eligibility criteria above before applying.