Open Challenge Program 8.0 (OCP 8.0)

The Open Challenge Program is Kalpataru's route in: a competition that identifies startups solving problems in emerging sectors with Industry 4.0 technologies. Open Challenge Program 8.0 is the current round. Applicants are screened and pitch for selection, and selected startups go through a one-year incubation delivered in Nurture, Develop and Market phases, which can be extended on the recommendation of the Project Management Group committee.

What you get

• A one-year incubation at Kalpataru, in Nurture, Develop and Market phases
• Plug-and-play space, mentoring and lab access
• Seed support for selected, physically incubated startups

Who can apply

• Indian startups building software products in the Industry 4.0 domain: Industrial IoT, AI, machine learning, AR/VR, industrial automation, robotics, drones and 3D printing
• For a private limited company, incorporated within the last ten years
• At least 51% shareholding held by an Indian citizen or person of Indian origin, and not a subsidiary of a foreign corporation
• Individual academicians, researchers, educators, entrepreneurs, partnership firms and LLPs may take part, registering as a private limited company (preferably within three months) if selected
• DPIIT-registered startups are encouraged to apply
• Startups already on-boarded at Kalpataru are not eligible

How selection works: Applications are screened in a centralised, multi-tier process, and shortlisted applicants are called for selection through a pitch or presentation.

How to apply: Apply online through the Apply Now link on the programme page. For help with the application form, write to kalpataru@stpi.in.