Mobility & Transport Startup Grants and Funding Programs in India — October 2026

Indian mobility and transport startups have access to ten active funding programs this October 2026, encompassing government grants, seed investments, incubation support, and innovation competitions.

The funding landscape for the sector is characterized by strategic government initiatives like Production Linked Incentive schemes, alongside institutional accelerators and open innovation challenges. These programs aim to catalyze domestic manufacturing, foster advanced automotive technologies, and support sustainable transportation solutions across the country.

Active Mobility & Transport Grants and Programs

Patent Reimbursement Incentives (KBITS, Government of Karnataka)

The Patent Reimbursement Incentives: Karnataka Startup Policy is a program by the Karnataka Biotechnology and Information Technology Services (KBITS) under the Government of Karnataka. It offers financial support for patent registration costs to eligible startups.

This initiative is specifically for incubated startups officially registered with the Karnataka Startup Cell. The policy aims to reduce the financial burden associated with securing intellectual property rights, which is critical for technology-driven ventures in Karnataka seeking to protect their innovations. Startups can receive up to ₹10,00,000 in reimbursement.

Katapult Ocean Accelerator (Katapult Ocean)

Katapult Ocean, an Oslo-based accelerator, provides early-stage investment and acceleration to startups focused on the blue economy. The Katapult Ocean Accelerator (Investment Program) targets innovative solutions globally that protect and restore ocean health.

The program seeks entrepreneurs developing technologies for maritime decarbonization, green shipping, ocean renewable energy, sustainable aquaculture, ocean data analytics, marine restoration, and circular economy solutions. While based internationally, its focus on maritime decarbonization and green shipping offers direct relevance for Indian startups in the marine transport and logistics segments. Up to ₹4,50,00,000 in investment is available.

Production Linked Incentive (PLI) Scheme for Automobile and Auto Components Industry (Ministry of Heavy Industries)

The Ministry of Heavy Industries, Government of India, offers the Production Linked Incentive (PLI) Scheme for Automobile and Auto Components Industry. This initiative aims to boost domestic manufacturing capabilities by providing financial incentives for producing advanced automotive technology products.

The scheme supports eligible automobile and auto component manufacturers, helping them overcome cost disadvantages and achieve economies of scale. It seeks to establish India as a competitive global manufacturing hub, fostering investment and enhancing the entire automotive ecosystem. This program offers significant financial support, potentially up to ₹64,85,00,00,000, for manufacturers focused on advanced automotive technologies relevant to mobility.

PLI Scheme for Advanced Chemistry Cell (ACC) Battery Storage (Ministry of Heavy Industries)

Another strategic initiative from the Ministry of Heavy Industries is the Production Linked Incentive (PLI) Scheme For National Programme on Advanced Chemistry Cell (ACC) Battery Storage. This scheme incentivizes domestic and foreign investors to establish giga-scale ACC manufacturing facilities in India.

The primary goal is to promote domestic manufacturing of Advanced Chemistry Cells, thereby reducing import dependency for battery storage solutions. Financial incentives are provided as subsidies to beneficiary firms to achieve maximum value addition and committed capacity within a defined timeframe. This program is crucial for startups involved in electric vehicle (EV) battery technology and energy storage components within the mobility sector, with funding amounts varying based on project specifics.

Jharkhand Mukhyamantri Gram Gadi Yojana (Transport Department, Government of Jharkhand)

The Transport Department, Government of Jharkhand, launched the Jharkhand Mukhyamantri Gram Gadi Yojana to enhance rural connectivity. This scheme incentivizes private bus operators to establish transportation links between remote villages and key destinations.

The program provides financial assistance and various exemptions to ensure the viability and expansion of bus services in underserved rural areas. It aims to connect villages with block headquarters, district headquarters, educational institutions, medical facilities, main roads, and commercial centers. Startups involved in rural transportation, logistics, or related services in Jharkhand could find this scheme relevant. Funding amounts vary depending on the operational scope.

D.E.S.I.G.N. for BioE3 Challenge (Department of Biotechnology (DBT))

The Department of Biotechnology (DBT), BIRAC, and BRIC-ILS lead the D.E.S.I.G.N. for BioE3 Challenge, a government initiative under India's BioE3 policy. This challenge aims to inspire sustainable biotechnological solutions from young students and researchers across India.

With the theme "Empowering Youth to Solve Critical Issues of their TIMES," the program seeks innovative ideas that can address critical issues in economy, environment, and employment. Mobility-related solutions, especially those concerning sustainable fuels, bio-materials for transport, or environmental impact reduction, could be eligible. The challenge operates with rolling monthly submissions, closing on 31 October 2026, for its current cycle. Top concept proposal winners receive a cash appreciation grant of ₹1,00,000, along with mentorship and access to incubation facilities.

Maruti Suzuki NURTURE Cohort 4 (IIM Calcutta Innovation Park)

Maruti Suzuki and IIM Calcutta Innovation Park (IIMCIP) jointly present the Maruti Suzuki NURTURE Cohort 4. This pre-incubation initiative supports early-stage startups, with a specific focus on eastern, north-eastern, and central India, though it is open to startups offering services nationwide.

The program targets startups in domains such as Mobility Convenience/Assistance, Tech in Mobility (ADAS, V2X, EV & EV infrastructure, autonomous mobility), Sustainability (eco-friendly packaging, sustainable fuels, plastic alternatives), Social Impact (rural mobility & development), and Enterprise & Manufacturing. Benefits include cash rewards up to ₹13,00,000, potential for a paid Proof of Concept (PoC), mentorship, and access to Maruti Suzuki's ecosystem.

Indian Innovation Icons 2027 (Marico Innovation Foundation)

The Marico Innovation Foundation organizes Indian Innovation Icons 2027, a biennial program for founders and innovators addressing real-world problems. This program supports both for-profit businesses and not-for-profit organizations.

While there is no direct cash prize, winners receive a one-hour strategic diagnosis session with Harsh Mariwala and six months of customized mentorship from Marico's senior leadership in various functional areas. The program also provides introductions to venture capital firms, grant makers, and corporate partners, along with media visibility and long-term strategic guidance. Mobility sector innovations are welcome.

Avinya'27 Energy Startup Challenge (Federation of Indian Petroleum Industry (FIPI))

The Federation of Indian Petroleum Industry (FIPI) presents the Avinya'27 Energy Startup Challenge. This competition identifies and supports Indian startups developing solutions across the energy value chain.

Aligned with the vision of Atmanirbhar Bharat, the challenge focuses on innovation, socio-economic impact, sustainability, and diversity within the energy ecosystem. Participants can address areas including renewable energy, alternative fuels, low-carbon solutions, and energy efficiency, all directly impacting the future of mobility. The deadline for this challenge is 15 October 2026. Top startups can receive up to ₹3,00,000.

Maruti Suzuki - NSRCEL Mobility Incubation Program (NSRCEL, IIM Bangalore)

NSRCEL at IIM Bangalore, in partnership with Maruti Suzuki India Limited, offers the Maruti Suzuki - NSRCEL Mobility Incubation Program. This 6-month initiative accelerates technology and mobility startups aiming to transform the automotive sector.

The program targets ventures beyond the ideation phase, specifically those at the Minimum Viable Product (MVP) or paid pilot stage, extending to growth and scale-focused companies. It supports innovation in electric vehicles, advanced driver-assistance systems, data analytics, sustainable manufacturing, and connected vehicle solutions. Participants can access up to ₹1,00,00,000 in funding, mentorship from IIM-B and Maruti Suzuki, and industry networking.

Before Applying

Potential applicants should note specific eligibility criteria across these programs. The Patent Reimbursement Incentives: Karnataka Startup Policy requires startups to be incubated and officially registered with the Karnataka Startup Cell. Both Maruti Suzuki NURTURE Cohort 4 and the Maruti Suzuki - NSRCEL Mobility Incubation Program are tailored for early-stage and post-ideation startups respectively, with NSRCEL specifically targeting ventures at MVP or paid pilot stages.

Applicants should be aware of program deadlines. The Avinya'27 Energy Startup Challenge has a closing date of 15 October 2026, while the D.E.S.I.G.N. for BioE3 Challenge concludes its current rolling monthly submissions cycle on 31 October 2026. Many other programs, such as the PLI schemes and the Maruti Suzuki programs, operate on a rolling or unspecified deadline basis, allowing for continuous applications.