CoE Innovation Challenge: AI-Powered Foreign Object Detection in Bulk Cargo Unloaders
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Quick Answer
An AI & Deep-Tech Innovation Challenge by nasscom CoE, seeking solutions for a large port terminal operator to detect foreign objects in bulk cargo unloaders, leading to a potential paid Proof-of-Concept.
- Funding amount
- Varies
- Funding type
- Competition
- Provider
- nasscom CoE – IoT & AI
- Application deadline
- Rolling
- Location
- Open to startups registered in India
Results & next round
Applications for this round are closed. The organiser has not published a selection list that we can verify yet.
Selections for this programme are announced by nasscom CoE – IoT & AI. Official links are listed under Sources below.
We update this page when results are published, and when the next round opens.
About this competition
The nasscom Centre of Excellence for IoT & AI, a joint initiative with the Ministry of Electronics & Information Technology (MeitY) and the Governments of Karnataka, Haryana, and Gujarat, presents an Innovation Challenge focused on critical industrial problems. This program specifically targets deep-tech startups to develop advanced solutions for real-world operational challenges. The current challenge, developed in collaboration with a major port terminal operator, seeks to address a significant safety and efficiency issue in bulk cargo handling: the detection of foreign objects within deep vessel holds during coal unloading.
Current operations suffer from a lack of visibility inside 18-19 meter deep vessel holds, where hidden debris can cause substantial damage to equipment, lead to costly downtime, and pose safety risks. This challenge calls for innovative AI and deep-tech solutions capable of real-time, 360-degree scanning around a rapidly rotating screw arm (approximately 325 RPM) to detect obstructions 3-4 meters ahead. The successful deployment of such a system would dramatically enhance safety protocols, improve response times to potential hazards, and bolster the overall operational reliability of bulk cargo handling at port terminals.
This initiative underscores the commitment of nasscom CoE, MeitY, and state governments to foster technological innovation that addresses pressing industrial needs and creates opportunities for deep-tech startups to scale their solutions in high-impact sectors. By bridging the gap between cutting-edge technology and industry requirements, the Innovation Challenge aims to drive digital transformation in critical infrastructure and promote the growth of India's deep-tech ecosystem.
Eligibility
See if you're eligible
Full eligibility criteria — entity type, stage, sector, founder profile and registration requirements — plus your fit for this program. Sign up to view.
Organizers
nasscom CoE – IoT & AI is a centre of excellence for deep-tech startups working on the internet of things, artificial intelligence and machine learning, analytics, AR/VR and robotics. It is run by nasscom with the Ministry of Electronics and Information Technology as a Digital…
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What You Get
If selected, your solution has the potential to move toward a paid PoC with the operator, with the possibility of scaling up after a successful PoC. This offers deep-tech startups an unparalleled opportunity to validate their technology in a real-world industrial setting and secure a commercial engagement with a leading port terminal operator, providing critical market access and potential for significant growth.
- Bootstrap friendly
- Yes
Timelines & Process
Applications
Rolling basis
Selection Process
The selection process for the CoE Innovation Challenge is designed to identify the most promising deep-tech solutions with high potential for real-world impact. Initial applications will undergo a rigorous screening by a panel of technical experts from nasscom CoE and representatives from the participating port terminal operator. This stage will assess the innovativeness, technical feasibility, and alignment of the proposed solution with the challenge's objectives. Shortlisted startups will then be invited for a more in-depth evaluation, which may include presentations, interviews, and technical demonstrations. The final selection will be based on the solution's potential to effectively address the problem, the startup's capacity for execution, and the commercial viability of a potential paid Proof of Concept (PoC). The goal is to identify a solution that can be successfully integrated and scaled within the port's operations, ensuring enhanced safety and efficiency.
Application Process
- 1
Express Interest
Submit your company name and email via the online form on the use-case page.
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How to apply
Four steps from draft to disbursement — one action each.
- 1
Submit on the official portal
Use the official application link and verify all details before final submission.
- 2
Follow up
Reach out 5–7 days after submitting to confirm receipt and ask about the review timeline.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the CoE Innovation Challenge about?
The CoE Innovation Challenge is an initiative by nasscom Centre of Excellence for IoT & AI, in partnership with MeitY and state governments, to identify deep-tech solutions for specific industrial problems. This particular challenge focuses on AI-powered detection of foreign objects in bulk cargo unloaders for a large port terminal operator.
What kind of funding or support does this program offer?
The primary benefit for selected startups is the potential opportunity to conduct a **paid Proof-of-Concept (PoC)** directly with the port terminal operator. This provides a direct commercial engagement and a clear pathway for scaling up the solution after successful validation, rather than an upfront grant or equity investment.
Is there an application deadline for this challenge?
No, this program is designed as an ongoing, rolling call for solutions. Applications are accepted continuously, allowing startups to submit their proposals as soon as they are ready to address the specified use-case.
What are the key technical requirements for a successful solution?
The solution must be capable of 360-degree scanning around a rotating screw arm (325 RPM), detect obstructions 3-4 meters ahead in coal depths of 18-19 meters, and provide real-time alerts with object type and location to enhance safety and operational reliability.
Which stages of startups are eligible to apply?
The challenge primarily targets deep-tech startups that have developed an MVP or prototype (product stage) or are in early revenue stages, ready to validate their technology through a Proof-of-Concept in a real-world industrial environment.
What is the expected outcome if my solution is selected?
If selected, your startup will have the opportunity to implement a paid PoC with the port terminal operator. A successful PoC can lead to further commercial engagements, long-term contracts, and the significant scale-up of your solution within the port sector and potentially other industrial applications.
Sources
Data on this page is compiled from official program and provider references.
