Wadhwani Innovation Network CoE Call for Proposals 2026
Up to ₹1Cr for TRL-4+ deeptech startups with IIT Hyderabad collaboration
- Funding amount
- ₹1Cr (grant)
- Funding type
- Grant
- Provider
- Wadhwani Foundation (NGO/Foundation)
- Application deadline
- Closed (31 Mar 2026)
- Eligible stage
- Any stage
- Location
- Open to startups registered in India
Overview
The Wadhwani Innovation Network (WIN) Centre of Excellence at IIT Hyderabad invites innovators, startups, and research teams to submit Expressions of Interest for its March 2026 Call for Proposals. This grant program targets deep technology solutions that have already reached Technology Readiness Level (TRL) 4 or above — meaning the technology has been validated in a laboratory environment or exists as a working prototype. By focusing on projects past the concept stage, the initiative aims to bridge the gap between early research and commercial deployment.
Selected projects can receive up to ₹1 crore in funding over a maximum duration of two years. Beyond financial support, the program offers access to IIT Hyderabad's academic ecosystem, including collaboration with faculty members and interdisciplinary research groups. A key requirement is that startups and industry participants must actively partner with an IIT Hyderabad faculty member, ensuring projects benefit from strong academic mentorship.
The program covers a wide range of deep technology domains such as artificial intelligence, advanced manufacturing, aerospace, climate and sustainability, health technologies, quantum technologies, and critical minerals. These areas align with national priorities and emerging global trends.
Highlights
- Grant funding up to ₹1 crore for deep tech projects at TRL 4+
- Project duration up to two years
- Mandatory collaboration with IIT Hyderabad faculty
- Focus areas include AI, aerospace, climate tech, healthtech, quantum tech, and more
- Open to startups, faculty, and research groups
- Application deadline: March 31, 2026
Who can apply
To apply, your project must demonstrate a Technology Readiness Level (TRL) of 4 or higher — meaning the technology has been validated in a lab or has a working prototype. Early-stage ideas at TRL 1–3 are not eligible. The program is open to technology startups, faculty members, interdisciplinary research groups, and faculty–startup collaborative teams. If you are from a startup or industry, you must collaborate with an IIT Hyderabad faculty member. Proposals should align with one or more of the focus areas: AI, aerospace, advanced manufacturing, climate tech, healthtech, quantum technologies, critical minerals, and related domains. The project must show feasibility and potential for real-world impact.
Wadhwani Innovation Network CoE Call for Proposals 2026 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 Wadhwani Innovation Network CoE Call for Proposals 2026 closed on 31 Mar 2026. Many programmes run repeat cohorts, so it is worth checking the official site for the next round.
What the funding covers
Selected projects may receive funding support of up to ₹1 crore, with a project duration of up to two years. In addition to financial assistance, the program provides access to IIT Hyderabad's academic ecosystem, fostering collaboration between startups, faculty members, and interdisciplinary research groups. This helps enhance the scientific rigor and practical applicability of the solutions being developed.
About the provider
Wadhwani Innovation Network CoE Call for Proposals 2026 is offered by Wadhwani Foundation, a non-profit foundation. It is delivered directly by Wadhwani Foundation 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 Wadhwani Innovation Network CoE Call for Proposals 2026, 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
Wadhwani Innovation Network CoE Call for Proposals 2026 is best suited for startups in India seeking non-dilutive funding of ₹1Cr. If that describes your startup, review the eligibility criteria above before applying.
Frequently asked questions
How much funding is offered?
Selected projects may receive funding support of up to ₹1 crore.
What is the application deadline?
The deadline for submitting Expressions of Interest is March 31, 2026.
Who is eligible to apply?
Technology startups, faculty members, interdisciplinary research groups, and faculty–startup collaborative teams are eligible. Startups and industry applicants must collaborate with an IIT Hyderabad faculty member.
What stage of technology is required?
The technology must have a Technology Readiness Level (TRL) of 4 or higher — meaning it has been validated in a lab or exists as a working prototype. Concept-stage ideas (TRL 1–3) are not eligible.
Which technology domains are funded?
The program covers a broad range of deep technology domains including artificial intelligence, advanced manufacturing, aerospace, climate and sustainability, health technologies, quantum technologies, and critical minerals.
Does the program take equity?
No, this is a grant program. No equity is taken.
What documents are typically needed?
You will need to submit an Expression of Interest via the Google Form linked on the program page. The exact document requirements are not specified, but typical submissions include a project proposal, proof of TRL level, and details of faculty collaboration.
How can I apply?
You can submit your Expression of Interest through the Google Form provided in the application link.
Is a patent or prior research required?
No specific requirement for patents is mentioned, but you must demonstrate a TRL of 4 or above, which implies some prior development or research.
Can international startups apply?
The program is based at IIT Hyderabad and likely focuses on Indian entities, but the eligibility criteria do not explicitly exclude international applicants.
Is DPIIT recognition required for Wadhwani Innovation Network CoE Call for Proposals 2026?
No. DPIIT (Startup India) recognition is not listed as a mandatory requirement for Wadhwani Innovation Network CoE Call for Proposals 2026, though having it can strengthen your application and unlock other benefits.
Who offers Wadhwani Innovation Network CoE Call for Proposals 2026?
Wadhwani Innovation Network CoE Call for Proposals 2026 is offered by Wadhwani Foundation, a non-profit foundation. It is provided as non-dilutive funding.
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