PI-RAHI SPARKS 2.0 Grant
By PI-RAHI (PU-IIT Ropar Regional Accelerator for Holistic Innovations Foundation)
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Quick Answer
SPARKS 2.0 is a flagship initiative by PI-RAHI, offering grant support, acceleration, mentorship, and investor access to research-driven and deep-tech startups across India.
- Funding amount
- Up to ₹10L
- Funding type
- Grant
- Application deadline
- 30d — 23 Nov 2026
- Location
- Open to startups registered in India
About this grant
SPARKS 2.0, also known as the Strategic Program for Accelerating Research & Knowledge Startups, is a flagship initiative spearheaded by PI-RAHI (PU-IIT Ropar Regional Accelerator for Holistic Innovations Foundation). PI-RAHI operates as the Northern Region S&T Cluster, an autonomous not-for-profit Section 8 company, established under the aegis of the Office of the Principal Scientific Adviser, Government of India. It is jointly hosted by two prestigious institutions, Panjab University and IIT Ropar, situated at the Panjab University campus in Chandigarh.
This program is specifically designed to empower research-driven and deep-tech startups, providing them with critical resources and strategic guidance to expedite their journey from nascent research concepts to commercially viable market-ready products. SPARKS 2.0 aims to bridge the gap between academic innovation and entrepreneurial execution, fostering a vibrant ecosystem for technological advancements.
The initiative focuses on supporting startups that are developing innovative solutions within key thematic areas, including agriculture, sustainable mobility, green energy, healthcare, and waste management. By offering comprehensive support that goes beyond just funding, SPARKS 2.0 seeks to cultivate a new generation of deep-tech ventures that can contribute significantly to India's technological and economic growth.
Eligibility
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Full eligibility criteria — entity type, stage, sector, founder profile and registration requirements — plus your fit for this program. Sign up to view.
Grant providers
Provider
PI-RAHI (PU-IIT Ropar Regional Accelerator for Holistic Innovations Foundation)Chandigarh · Chandigarh · India
Panjab University, located in Chandigarh, is an institution established under the Panjab University Act VII of 1947 by the Government of India. The university aims to impart education in Arts, Letters, Science, and learned professions, while also furthering advancement of…
Learn moreBenefits & Funding
- Amount
- Up to ₹10L
- Fund type
- Grant
- Equity
- Equity-free
- Repayment
- Non-repayable
What You Get
SPARKS 2.0 provides grant support of up to ₹10 lakhs to selected deep-tech startups, enabling them to fund critical research, product development, and market entry activities without dilution. Beyond financial aid, the program offers comprehensive acceleration support, including tailored expert mentorship from industry veterans and academics. Participants gain invaluable access to funding opportunities and investor connections, significantly enhancing their fundraising potential. Additionally, the initiative provides crucial IP support and commercialisation guidance, helping startups protect their innovations and successfully bring them to market.
- Disbursement
- Milestone Based
- Bootstrap friendly
- Yes
Timelines & Process
Selection Process
The selection process for SPARKS 2.0 is designed to identify high-potential deep-tech startups with innovative solutions. Applications are initially screened by a panel of experts from PI-RAHI, Panjab University, and IIT Ropar. This initial review assesses the startup's eligibility, the innovation of their product/service, market potential, and alignment with the program's thematic areas. Shortlisted candidates may then be invited for a detailed presentation or interview round, where they will have the opportunity to pitch their venture to a selection committee comprising venture capitalists, industry leaders, and technical experts. The final selection will be based on the overall strength of the proposal, the team's capabilities, and the potential for commercialisation and impact.
Application Process
- 1
Apply Online
Applicants submit their detailed application through the provided online Google Form.
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How to apply
Four steps from draft to disbursement — one action each.
- 1
Draft your application
Answer the form inside the grant tracker — AI drafts each response using your past answers, so you're not starting from a blank page.
- 2
Submit on the official portal
Use the official application link and verify all details before final submission.
- 3
Follow up
Reach out 5–7 days after submitting to confirm receipt and ask about the review timeline.
Frequently Asked Questions
What kind of startups is SPARKS 2.0 looking for?
SPARKS 2.0 targets research-driven and deep-tech startups with products or services at the Minimum Viable Product (MVP) stage and a Technology Readiness Level (TRL) of 4 or above. The program seeks innovations across thematic areas such as Agriculture & Food Processing, Sustainable Mobility & Green Energy, Pharma, Medical Devices & Healthcare, and Waste Management.
What is the maximum funding available through SPARKS 2.0?
Selected startups can receive grant support of up to ₹10 lakhs. This funding is non-dilutive and does not require any equity stake from the startup.
Is there a specific legal entity required to apply?
Yes, startups must be registered, or be in the process of registering within three months, as Private Limited companies to be eligible for the program.
Does SPARKS 2.0 offer any support beyond financial grants?
Absolutely. In addition to the grant, the program provides extensive acceleration support, expert mentorship, access to funding and investor connections, and specialized guidance for intellectual property protection and commercialisation.
Is SPARKS 2.0 open to startups from all over India?
Yes, the program is open to startups across India. While there is a preference for entities registered in or exploring market access in Himachal Pradesh, Jammu & Kashmir, Chandigarh, Haryana, and Punjab, this is not a strict restriction for eligibility.
What is the application deadline for SPARKS 2.0?
The last date to apply for SPARKS 2.0 is 23 November 2026. Interested startups are encouraged to submit their applications well before the deadline.
