Innovations for Defence Excellence (iDEX)
Government body
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Innovations for Defence Excellence (iDEX)

Innovations for Defence Excellence (iDEX) is a government body with 2 startup funding programmes on startupfunds. Browse every opportunity below, with eligibility, amounts and how to apply.

2 programsUpdated regularly
Quick answer

Innovations for Defence Excellence (iDEX) runs 2 startup funding programs listed on startupfunds, spanning competition funding up to ₹1.5Cr. None are open for applications at the moment, but many programs reopen for the next cohort.

Programs listed
2
Funding types
Competition
Funding amount
Up to ₹1.5Cr
Provider type
Government body
Geography
Startups registered in India
Equity-free
Some programs take no equity

About Innovations for Defence Excellence (iDEX)

A flagship initiative of the Ministry of Defence to foster innovation and entrepreneurship in the defence and aerospace sectors.

What Innovations for Defence Excellence (iDEX) funds

Filters that match Innovations for Defence Excellence (iDEX)'s programs — tap one to see every grant in that category.

Equity-FreeGovernmentCompetition₹1 Crore+

Programs from Innovations for Defence Excellence (iDEX)

Innovations for Defence Excellence (iDEX) has no programs open right now — see past programs below, or check back soon.

Past & closed programs

Recently closed — many run again, so they're worth tracking for the next cohort.

Competition
₹1.5CrUp to

iDEX Open Challenge

by Innovations for Defence Excellence (iDEX)

The iDEX Open Challenge invites Indian startups, innovators, and MSMEs to propose cutting-edge technologies and products for the defence and aerospace sectors, offering grants up to ₹1.5 crore and direct engagement with the military.

Equity-FreeGovernmentCompetition₹1 Crore+
Closed (30 Sept 2026)
View

Frequently asked questions

What founders ask about funding from Innovations for Defence Excellence (iDEX).

How many funding programs does Innovations for Defence Excellence (iDEX) offer?
Innovations for Defence Excellence (iDEX) currently lists 2 startup funding programs on startupfunds, though none are open for applications at the moment. New cohorts are added as Innovations for Defence Excellence (iDEX) announces them.
What type of funding does Innovations for Defence Excellence (iDEX) provide?
Innovations for Defence Excellence (iDEX) backs startups through competition funding, and some of its programs are equity-free (no equity is taken in return). Funding is typically up to ₹1.5Cr.
How much funding can a startup get from Innovations for Defence Excellence (iDEX)?
Innovations for Defence Excellence (iDEX)'s programs offer up to ₹1.5Cr. The exact amount depends on the specific program, stage and your startup's needs.
How do I apply to Innovations for Defence Excellence (iDEX) programs?
Pick the Innovations for Defence Excellence (iDEX) program you're interested in from the list below to see its eligibility, funding amount, deadline and step-by-step how-to-apply guide. Applications are submitted through Innovations for Defence Excellence (iDEX)'s official channels; you can also reach their official site from the top of this page.

Browse more startup funding

Compare Innovations for Defence Excellence (iDEX)'s programs against the wider funding landscape.

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