What kind of companies are eligible to apply for NextSense?

NextSense is open to Indian-registered startups with a strong business idea in quantum sensing or metrology, a clear go-to-market plan, and a technology-enabled core product or service. DPIIT Startup recognition is mandatory, or an undertaking that the startup is eligible for it, with funds released only post-registration.

Is there an equity component to the funding?

Yes, NextSense provides funding through equity or Compulsorily Convertible Preference Shares (CCPS) instruments, depending on the stage of the startup. It is not an equity-free grant.

What are the funding amounts available?

Funding is tiered: up to ₹1 Crore for Idea to POC, up to ₹5 Crores for POC to product/customer pilot, and up to ₹25 Crores for scale-up and commercialization stages.

What kind of support, besides funding, does NextSense provide?

Besides funding, the program offers extensive business and technical mentorship from experts, access to Qmet Tech's state-of-the-art lab facilities and technology resources at IIT Bombay, and networking opportunities within its ecosystem.

Is there a specific deadline to apply for the NextSense program?

Yes, the cutoff date for the 3rd Cohort is 5th September 2026. Applicants must submit their applications by this date.

Are there any specific requirements regarding Indian ownership and IP?

Yes, the startup must be an 'Indian Company' with its holding company registered in India, IP residing in India, and majority ownership in India. Indian promoters must hold at least 51% shareholding.

NextSense Call for Applications 2026: Apply by 5 Sept

NextSense is a strategic initiative spearheaded by Qmet Tech at IIT Bombay, designed to foster and accelerate entrepreneurial development in the critical and emerging fields of quantum sensing and metrology. The program addresses the need to bridge the gap between groundbreaking research and market-ready solutions within this highly specialized deep-tech domain. It is tailored for innovative startups that are poised to disrupt traditional industries by leveraging advanced quantum technologies. NextSense provides a comprehensive support system encompassing significant financial backing, expert mentorship, and unparalleled access to state-of-the-art technical infrastructure within the Qmet Tech ecosystem. The initiative aims to cultivate a vibrant community of quantum entrepreneurs, guiding them from initial ideation through proof-of-concept, product development, and ultimately, successful commercialization and scale-up in the Indian market. By focusing on areas such as Quantum Inertial Navigation Systems, Gravimeters, Thermal Sensors, Quantum Biosensors, and precision machining, NextSense seeks to establish India as a leader in quantum technology applications and drive economic growth through cutting-edge innovation.

The selection process for NextSense involves a thorough evaluation of submitted applications against the eligibility criteria and the program's objectives. Initial screening will assess the completeness of documents, the viability of the business idea, market fit, technological innovation, and potential for impact within the quantum sensing and metrology domain. Shortlisted applicants will then be invited for a Pitch Presentation, where they will have the opportunity to showcase their solution, team, and proposed milestones to a selection committee comprising experts from Qmet Tech and IIT Bombay. The committee will evaluate the pitches based on technical merit, commercial potential, team capability, and alignment with NextSense's focus areas. The final decision regarding the selection of projects and the allocation of funds will be made by Qmet Tech and will be final and binding.

Selected startups will receive equity or Compulsorily Convertible Preference Shares (CCPS) funding, structured across multiple stages to support their growth trajectory. For the 'Idea to POC' stage, startups can receive up to ₹1 Crore. As they progress from 'POC to product/customer pilot', the funding can extend up to ₹5 Crores. For 'Scale up of technology, product development and commercialization', substantial funding of up to ₹25 Crores is available. This funding is disbursed on a milestone-based approach, ensuring alignment with project progress and clear deliverables. Beyond capital, the program offers invaluable business and technical mentorship from a network of seasoned experts, guiding startups through critical development and commercialization challenges. Participants also gain privileged access to Qmet Tech's world-class facilities, labs, and technology resources at IIT Bombay, enabling rapid prototyping, testing, and validation of complex quantum solutions. The program also facilitates networking opportunities within the Qmet Tech and IIT Bombay ecosystem, connecting founders with potential partners, investors, and industry leaders.

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