How much grant funding does the iDEX Open Challenge offer?

Selected innovators can receive grants of up to ₹1.5 crore, disbursed in tranches against milestones under the iDEX SPARC framework.

Who is eligible to apply?

Indian startups, individual innovators and MSMEs with technology solutions applicable to defence and aerospace are eligible.

Do I need to be DPIIT-recognised to apply?

No. DPIIT recognition is not mandatory. Startups, MSMEs and even individual innovators can apply.

Does iDEX take equity?

No. iDEX grants are non-dilutive and equity-free.

How are applications evaluated?

Through a multi-stage process: eligibility screening, technical evaluation by subject experts, and a final pitch to the iDEX Grand Jury.

How are funds disbursed?

Funds are released in milestone-based tranches under a SPARC-style contract, with deliverables and timelines defined upfront.

What is the deadline for the current cycle?

30 June 2026, 11:59 PM. iDEX Open Challenge cycles refresh periodically throughout the year.

iDEX Open Challenge by DIO – Up to ₹1.5 Cr

The iDEX Open Challenge is a flagship initiative under Innovations for Defence Excellence (iDEX), implemented by the Defence Innovation Organisation (DIO), aimed at fostering innovation and entrepreneurship in India’s defence and aerospace sectors. The challenge creates a structured platform for startups, MSMEs, and individual innovators to propose breakthrough technologies that can strengthen India’s military and strategic capabilities.

The Open Challenge casts a wide net across leading-edge technology domains including aerospace, autonomous systems, artificial intelligence, quantum technologies, advanced materials, intelligent machines, predictive algorithms, and related defence applications. Unlike narrowly defined problem statements, this category allows innovators to propose original solutions that have potential use in defence and aerospace environments.

Selected applicants are given the opportunity to present their solutions before the iDEX Grand Jury. High-potential proposals may qualify for grants of up to ₹1.5 crore, along with potential investment support. The initiative is organized periodically throughout the year, enabling continuous engagement between innovators and defence stakeholders. Through facilitation by DIO and its partner incubators, startups and innovators can directly engage with the armed forces and defence ecosystem.

iDEX Open Challenge by DIO

iDEX Open Challenge by DIO

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