Who can apply to BICFAI Deeptech Cohort 1.0?

Students, MSMEs, researchers, and professionals working on innovations in defence, aerospace, or deeptech domains. Both individuals and teams are welcome. No restriction on incorporation status.

What technology domains does the programme focus on?

AI, Autonomy and Robotics; Cybersecurity, Secure Communication and Information Warfare; Quantum and Advanced Computing; Advanced Materials and Smart Manufacturing; Sensors, Electronics and Embedded Systems; and Energy Systems.

Is there a direct cash grant offered?

No fixed cash grant amount is stated. The programme provides support in identifying and accessing relevant funding sources including government grants, institutional schemes, and investor connects.

What is the application deadline?

Registration closes on 25 May 2026. Registration opened on 5 May 2026.

How is BICFAI structured?

BICFAI is a joint initiative of BITS Pilani Hyderabad Campus and the ICFAI Group, combining BITS Pilani's engineering and research depth with ICFAI's business and enterprise network.

BICFAI Deeptech Cohort 1.0 – BITS Pilani Hyderabad & ICFAI Group

About this grant

BICFAI Deeptech Cohort 1.0 is the inaugural incubation cohort of the Bharat Incubation Center for Futuristic and Advanced Innovations, a joint initiative of BITS Pilani Hyderabad Campus and the ICFAI Group. The programme targets high-impact technology ventures across defence, aerospace, and deep-tech domains, reflecting the dual institutional mandate of research excellence (BITS Pilani) and enterprise development (ICFAI).

The programme is open across six technology domains: Artificial Intelligence, Autonomy and Robotics; Cybersecurity, Secure Communication and Information Warfare; Quantum and Advanced Computing Technologies; Advanced Materials and Smart Manufacturing; Sensors, Electronics and Embedded Systems; and Energy Systems. These map closely to India's strategic deeptech priorities and the dual-use technology pipeline between defence, aerospace, and commercial applications.

Selected participants receive mentorship from faculty and domain experts at BITS Pilani Hyderabad and the ICFAI Group, alongside support for identifying and accessing funding sources , government grants, institutional funding, and investor connects. Market access support is also part of the programme, helping ventures connect with potential customers and partners in defence and commercial sectors.

BICFAI is positioned at the intersection of two well-established institutions , BITS Pilani's engineering and research depth, and ICFAI's business and enterprise network , giving cohort members access to a combined ecosystem that spans technical R&D, academic talent, and industry linkages. As a first cohort, this is also an opportunity for founders to build early relationships with the incubator as it scales its programme and network over time.

The programme is open to students, MSMEs, researchers, and professionals , making it accessible to a broader range of applicants than typical startup-only incubators, and particularly relevant for researchers and technologists looking to translate their work into ventures.

BICFAI Deeptech Cohort 1.0 – BITS Pilani Hyderabad & ICFAI Group

BICFAI Deeptech Cohort 1.0 – BITS Pilani Hyderabad & ICFAI Group

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