Samsung Research Open Innovation Challenge by StartupTN
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Quick Answer
An open innovation challenge for startups to develop proof-of-concept projects in key technology areas, with grant funding, mentorship, and potential partnership opportunities from Samsung Research.
- Funding amount
- Varies
- Funding type
- Grant
- Provider
- Samsung Research
- Application deadline
- Closed
- Eligible stage
- Idea
- Location
- Open to startups registered in India
Results & next round
Applications for this round closed on 15 November 2025. The organiser has not published a selection list that we can verify yet.
Selections for this programme are announced by Samsung Research. Official links are listed under Sources below.
We update this page when results are published, and when the next round opens.
About this grant
The Samsung Research Open Innovation Challenge, in collaboration with StartupTN, is an initiative to support startups with breakthrough ideas that can transform innovative concepts into reality through a collaborative development process.
The focus is on developing Proof of Concept (PoC) projects tailored to specific technology areas relevant to Samsung Mobile and future products.
Selected startups will receive:
- Grant Funding (No Equity) to support the PoC development plan.
- Expert Mentorship from Samsung experts and talent network.
- Potential Partnership & Investment Opportunities with Samsung Research/Mobile.
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.
Grant providers
Samsung Research India-Bangalore (SRI-B) is Samsung's largest R&D centre outside South Korea and a key innovation hub within the Samsung group. Established in 1996, SRI-B runs startup engagement programs including the Samsung Mobile Advance (SMA) incubation program, which…
Learn moreBenefits & Funding
- Fund type
- Grant
What You Get
Selected startups receive grant funding (no equity) to support the development of a Proof of Concept (PoC) over six months, along with expert mentorship from Samsung experts and talent network, and potential partnership and investment opportunities with Samsung Research/Mobile.
Application Process
- 1
Submit a 6-month PoC proposal
Prepare and submit a project proposal that describes the development plan of the Proof of Concept (PoC) and its potential benefits, addressing one of the specified focus areas.
You
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
Line up your documents
Keep every document from the checklist ready in one folder. Missing docs are the #1 reason applications get bounced.
- 3
Submit on the official portal
Use the official application link and verify all details before final submission.
- 4
Follow up
Reach out 5–7 days after submitting to confirm receipt and ask about the review timeline.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the Samsung Research Open Innovation Challenge?
It is an initiative by Samsung Research in collaboration with StartupTN to support startups with breakthrough ideas through a collaborative development process focused on Proof of Concept (PoC) projects.
What do selected startups receive?
Selected startups receive grant funding (no equity), expert mentorship from Samsung experts and talent network, and potential partnership and investment opportunities with Samsung Research/Mobile.
Who can apply?
The program is open to startups and other legal entities. The solution must address one of the key focus areas: AI, XR, Health, Foldable, Camera, Audio, Power, Wearable, Sensors, Materials, Connectivity, or ESG.
What is the expected project duration?
Applicants are expected to submit a 6-month project proposal that describes the development plan of the Proof of Concept (PoC) and its potential benefits.
Is the grant equity-free?
Yes, the grant funding is provided with no equity taken.
Sources
Data on this page is compiled from official program and provider references.









