UNNATI AI 2.0 – Microsoft-backed Grant & Support for AI Startups
FITT IIT Delhi and Microsoft's UNNATI AI 2.0 empowers AI startups and innovators with funding, mentorship, and market access to scale solutions for national impact.
- Funding amount
- Varies by program
- Funding type
- Grant
- Provider
- FITT, IIT Delhi (Academic)
- Application deadline
- 30 Sept 2026
- Eligible stage
- Any stage
- Location
- Open to startups registered in India
Overview
UNNATI AI 2.0: Unnati se Pragati is a flagship initiative by the Foundation for Innovation and Technology Transfer (FITT) at IIT Delhi, significantly supported by Microsoft's Corporate Social Responsibility (CSR) program. Building on the success of its first edition, this program is dedicated to transforming cutting-edge AI innovations into tangible solutions that drive meaningful societal impact across India.
The initiative unites startups, innovators, incubators, industry leaders, academia, and government bodies to accelerate the development, adoption, and deployment of AI solutions. It fosters a robust, future-ready AI ecosystem by enabling extensive capacity building, facilitating substantial startup growth, and supporting real-world pilot implementations. The program emphasizes reaching innovators from Tier-II and Tier-III regions, equipping them with tools, mentorship, and networks to build an inclusive, impact-driven, and globally competitive AI ecosystem.
Highlights
- Supported by Microsoft CSR funding
- Focus on AI for societal impact, including hunger, climate change, and healthcare
- Targeted at startups ready for national scale from validated pilots
- Open to innovators from Tier-II and Tier-III regions
- Includes AI developer training, incubator training, and hackathon tracks
- Provides access to Microsoft's corporate client network and FITT mentorship
Who can apply
Open to startups and innovators developing AI solutions for societal impact. Ideal for AI ventures that have proven their technology in real-world scenarios and seek national scale. Encourages participation from Tier-II and Tier-III regions. Also supports incubators looking to enhance their capabilities in funding and scaling AI startups. Individuals interested in AI developer training and certification are also eligible for specific program tracks.
UNNATI AI 2.0 – Microsoft-backed Grant & Support for AI Startups 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 UNNATI AI 2.0 – Microsoft-backed Grant & Support for AI Startups are open and the current deadline is 30 Sept 2026. Deadlines can change — always reconfirm on the official source before submitting.
What the funding covers
Selected ventures gain access to crucial financial support to scale their innovative solutions across India. Beyond direct funding, participants gain access to Microsoft's corporate client network, opening doors to large-scale business opportunities and strategic collaborations. The program offers comprehensive mentorship from FITT's investment experts, specialized training for AI developers and incubators, and access to state-of-the-art AI Maker Spaces. This holistic support ensures startups are equipped with the resources, knowledge, and connections needed for widespread impact and sustainable growth.
About the provider
UNNATI AI 2.0 – Microsoft-backed Grant & Support for AI Startups is offered by FITT, IIT Delhi, an academic institution. It is delivered directly by FITT, IIT Delhi as a grant. 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
Applications submitted by the September 2026 deadline undergo a rigorous screening by a committee comprising experts from FITT, IIT Delhi, Microsoft, and other ecosystem partners. Shortlisted startups may be invited for further presentations or interviews to delve into technology, business model, team, and societal contributions. The final cohort announcement is made in October 2026, initiating onboarding into the accelerator program.
Documents you’ll need
Before you apply to UNNATI AI 2.0 – Microsoft-backed Grant & Support for AI Startups, 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
What is the primary objective of UNNATI AI 2.0?
The program aims to transform AI innovations into meaningful societal impact by uniting startups, innovators, incubators, industry, academia, and government to accelerate the development, adoption, and deployment of AI solutions across India, with a focus on critical sectors and empowering innovators from Tier-II and Tier-III regions.
Who is eligible to apply for the Startup Accelerator 2.0 track?
AI startups that have validated their technology with real-world pilots and are ready to scale nationally are eligible. The program particularly seeks ventures that can drive innovation for public good and are looking for corporate clients and funding to expand across the country.
How much funding is provided?
The program provides funding to selected startups, supported by Microsoft's CSR program. While specific amounts are not disclosed, the funding aims to help startups launch nationally and secure corporate clients, turning local pilots into national success stories.
What is the application deadline?
Applications for UNNATI AI 2.0 Cohort 2 open in July 2026 and close in September 2026. Ensure your submission is completed before the end of September 2026 for consideration.
Does the program take equity?
As a grant program, no equity is taken from startups.
What kind of support can startups expect from the accelerator?
Startups receive funding, access to Microsoft's corporate client network, mentorship from FITT's investment experts, strategic collaboration opportunities, capacity-building initiatives, specialized training, and access to AI Maker Spaces.
Are there programs for individuals or ecosystem players besides startups?
Yes, the ecosystem includes five interconnected programs: Startup Accelerator 2.0, The Next-Level Incubators Training for incubator professionals, an AI Developer Training Program for individuals seeking certification, and a 'From Hackathon to Company' track for aspiring founders.
What documents are typically needed for the application?
You will need details about your AI solution, its real-world validation, and your vision for national scale and societal impact.
How and where do I apply?
Apply online through the official application portal at https://fitt-iitd.com/UnnatiAI2.0/#/apply before the deadline.
Is DPIIT recognition required for UNNATI AI 2.0 – Microsoft-backed Grant & Support for AI Startups?
No. DPIIT (Startup India) recognition is not listed as a mandatory requirement for UNNATI AI 2.0 – Microsoft-backed Grant & Support for AI Startups, though having it can strengthen your application and unlock other benefits.
Who offers UNNATI AI 2.0 – Microsoft-backed Grant & Support for AI Startups?
UNNATI AI 2.0 – Microsoft-backed Grant & Support for AI Startups is offered by FITT, IIT Delhi, an academic institution. It is provided as non-dilutive funding.
How do I apply for UNNATI AI 2.0 – Microsoft-backed Grant & Support for AI Startups?
Apply directly through the official application link on this page. Review the eligibility criteria and prepare your startup documents before you begin.
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