iDEX (Innovations for Defence Excellence)
A programme by Defence Public Sector Undertakings (Defence Public Sector Undertakings)
SPARK grant support for start-ups and MSMEs, run by the Defence Innovation Organisation (DIO), not by the DPSUs.
At a glance
| Best for | Recognised start-ups and Indian companies, mainly MSMEs |
|---|---|
| Grant support | For selected startups. A place in the programme does not by itself guarantee a grant. |
About iDEX (Innovations for Defence Excellence)
iDEX is run by the Defence Innovation Organisation (DIO), a not-for-profit company formed under the Department of Defence Production. It is not a DPSU programme. It supports prototype and research work through SPARK grants, awarded through Defence India Start-up Challenges (DISC) and Open Challenges.
What you get
- SPARK grant support for prototype and research projects
- A higher grant ceiling under iDEX Prime
Who can apply
- Start-ups recognised by the Department of Industrial Policy Promotion (DIPP), Ministry of Commerce and Industry
- Indian companies incorporated under the Companies Act, mainly micro, small and medium enterprises
- Individual innovators, who must form a start-up before they sign the SPARK Grant Agreement. Research and academic institutions can use the individual route.
The scheme was launched in May 2021 with a stated funded period of 2021-22 to 2025-26. The pages read do not say whether it runs beyond that period.