STPI CoE-EA: Schneider Electric Open Challenge Program 3.0
An open challenge by STPI CoE-EA and Schneider Electric offering equity funding up to ₹25 lakh for Industry 4.0 and enterprise tech startups.
- Funding amount
- ₹2.5L – ₹25L (competition)
- Funding type
- Competition
- Provider
- STPI CoE-EA, Bengaluru (Government)
- Application deadline
- Closes in 2d (17 Jul 2026)
- Eligible stage
- Any stage
- Location
- Open to startups registered in India
Overview
The Centre of Excellence – Efficiency Augmentation (CoE-EA), hosted by Software Technology Parks of India (STPI), is a specialized incubation and innovation platform that helps startups leverage Industry 4.0 and other emerging technologies. It operates in collaboration with the Karnataka Innovation and Technology Society (KITS), Government of Karnataka, and with support from industry partners. In partnership with Schneider Electric, CoE-EA is launching the Open Challenge Program (OCP) 3.0. This two-month program aims to identify, select, and support Proof-of-Concept (PoC) development, facilitate industry validation, and onboard startups solving high-impact use cases in Industry 4.0 and enterprise technology. Selected startups receive mentorship, technical handholding, access to infrastructure, industry engagement, and a final demo opportunity.
The program focuses on startups developing products and solutions that improve efficiency in industrial production, operations, service delivery, and public-sector applications. Technologies of interest include Artificial Intelligence, Machine Learning, IoT, Data Analytics, Robotics, Automation, Digital Twin, Computer Vision, and other allied emerging technologies.
Highlights
- Up to ₹25 lakh equity funding
- 2-month PoC cycle
- Industry 4.0 & Enterprise Tech focus
- Incubation support & mentorship
- Access to Schneider Electric network
- Based in Bengaluru
Who can apply
The program is open to Private Limited Companies incorporated within the last ten years, with at least 51% Indian or PIO shareholding, and not a subsidiary of a foreign corporation. Startups at ideation, validation, early-traction, or scaling stages are all welcome. Individual academicians, researchers, educators, entrepreneurs, partnership firms, and LLPs may also apply, but if selected, they must register as a Private Limited Company. DPIIT-registered startups are encouraged, though not mandatory.
STPI CoE-EA: Schneider Electric Open Challenge Program 3.0 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
Applications for STPI CoE-EA: Schneider Electric Open Challenge Program 3.0 are open and the current deadline is Closes in 2d (17 Jul 2026). Applications are closing soon, so prepare your documents early. Deadlines can change — always reconfirm on the official source before submitting.
What the funding covers
Shortlisted startups can receive up to ₹25 lakh in equity-linked funding. This is structured in two parts:
- Part I: ₹2.50 lakh as Incubator Equity/Market Access Support (linked to incubator equity at face value via a Shareholders' Agreement)
- Part II: Up to ₹22.50 lakh as Investment Equity/Growth Funding (linked to market value of shares via an investment structure)
Beyond funding, selected startups get:
- Ready-to-work plug-and-play incubation space
- High-speed internet access
- Access to Innovation and Development Lab and ICT infrastructure
- Mentorship from domain experts
- Technical handholding
- Networking opportunities, market-connect, and investor access
- Advisory support in HR, legal, accounting, IPR, and patenting
About the provider
STPI CoE-EA: Schneider Electric Open Challenge Program 3.0 is offered by STPI CoE-EA, Bengaluru, a government body. As a government-backed competition, 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.
How to apply
Applications are submitted on the official portal. Confirm the current deadline and document checklist there before you start.
Selection process
The selection process begins with an initial eligibility screening of all applications. This is followed by a detailed technical and commercial evaluation of qualified submissions. Startups that clear these stages are invited for a pitching and presentation round. A designated committee makes the final selection based on overall evaluation and pitch performance.
Documents you’ll need
Before you apply to STPI CoE-EA: Schneider Electric Open Challenge Program 3.0, 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.
Who this is best for
STPI CoE-EA: Schneider Electric Open Challenge Program 3.0 is best suited for startups in India seeking non-dilutive funding of ₹2.5L – ₹25L. If that describes your startup, review the eligibility criteria above before applying.
Frequently asked questions
What is the total funding amount available?
Selected startups can receive up to ₹25 lakh in equity-linked funding. This includes ₹2.50 lakh as Incubator Equity/Market Access Support and up to ₹22.50 lakh as Investment Equity/Growth Funding.
What is the application deadline?
The deadline for applications is July 17, 2026.
Which startup stages are eligible?
Startups at ideation, validation, early-traction, or scaling stages are all eligible to apply.
Is DPIIT registration mandatory?
DPIIT registration is not mandatory. Individual academicians, researchers, educators, entrepreneurs, partnership firms, and LLPs can also apply. However, if selected, non-company entities must register as a Private Limited Company.
What is the duration of the program?
The program runs a two-month Proof-of-Concept (PoC) cycle for selected startups from the date of commencement.
Does the program take equity?
Yes, the funding is equity-linked. Part I is linked to incubator equity at face value via a Shareholders' Agreement, and Part II is linked to market value of shares via an investment structure.
What technologies are you looking for?
The program focuses on Industry 4.0 and enterprise tech solutions leveraging AI, ML, IoT, Data Analytics, Robotics, Automation, Digital Twin, Computer Vision, and other emerging technologies.
How do I apply?
You can submit your application online at https://sayuj.net/apply-contest/EA-OCP-3.
What documents are needed?
The application process requires submitting details for eligibility screening, technical and commercial evaluation. Specific documents are not listed, but typical requirements include company registration, pitch deck, and product details.
Who is eligible to apply for STPI CoE-EA: Schneider Electric Open Challenge Program 3.0?
STPI CoE-EA: Schneider Electric Open Challenge Program 3.0 is open to startups at any stage. It is open to startups registered anywhere in India.
Who offers STPI CoE-EA: Schneider Electric Open Challenge Program 3.0?
STPI CoE-EA: Schneider Electric Open Challenge Program 3.0 is offered by STPI CoE-EA, Bengaluru, a government body. It is provided as non-dilutive funding.
Alternatives to STPI CoE-EA: Schneider Electric Open Challenge Program 3.0
Not sure STPI CoE-EA: Schneider Electric Open Challenge Program 3.0 is the right fit, or already applied? These are other grants open to Indian startups that founders shortlist alongside it.
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