STPI CoE-EA: Schneider Electric Open Challenge Program 3.0
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Quick Answer
An open challenge program by STPI CoE-EA and Schneider Electric supporting startups with equity-linked funding up to ₹25 lakh for Industry 4.0 and enterprise tech solutions.
- Funding amount
- ₹2.5 Lakhs – ₹25 Lakhs
- Funding type
- Competition
- Provider
- STPI CoE-EA, Bengaluru
- Application deadline
- Closed
- Location
- Open to startups registered in India
Results & next round
Applications for this round closed on 17 July 2026. The organiser has not published a selection list that we can verify yet.
Selections for this programme are announced by STPI CoE-EA, Bengaluru. Official links are listed under Sources below.
We update this page when results are published, and when the next round opens.
About this competition
The Centre of Excellence – Efficiency Augmentation (CoE-EA), hosted by Software Technology Parks of India (STPI), provides a specialized incubation and innovation platform. This platform focuses on enabling startups to leverage Industry 4.0 and other emerging technologies to enhance efficiency across various domains including industrial operations, service sectors, and government applications. CoE-EA operates in collaboration with Karnataka Innovation and Technology Society (KITS), Government of Karnataka, and with support from industry and the broader ecosystem. Under this initiative, STPI CoE-EA, in partnership with Schneider Electric, is launching an Open Challenge Program (OCP) 3.0. This program aims to identify, select, support proof-of-concept (PoC) development, facilitate industry validation, and onboard startups in high-impact Industry 4.0 and enterprise technology use cases. It is structured as a focused two-month challenge offering mentorship, technical handholding, access to infrastructure, industry engagement, and a final demonstration opportunity for shortlisted startups.
The program seeks to support startups developing products and solutions that improve efficiency in industrial production, operations, service delivery, and public-sector applications. This includes leveraging technologies such as Artificial Intelligence, Machine Learning, IoT, Data Analytics, Robotics, Automation, Digital Twin, Computer Vision, and allied emerging technologies.
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.
Organizers
STPI CoE-EA is the Centre of Excellence for Efficiency Augmentation, an incubation centre in Jayanagar, Bengaluru. It is run by Software Technology Parks of India (STPI) in collaboration with the Government of Karnataka, with support from Hewlett Packard Enterprise India Private…
Learn morePrizes & Awards
- Amount
- ₹2.5 Lakhs – ₹25 Lakhs
What You Get
This program offers financial incentives of up to ₹25 lakh in total, structured as equity participation by CoE-EA. This includes Part I: ₹2.50 lakh in Incubator Equity/Market Access Support (linked to incubator equity at face value via SHA) and Part II: Up to ₹22.50 lakh in Investment Equity/Growth Funding (linked to market value of shares via an investment structure). Beyond funding, selected startups receive ready-to-work plug-and-play incubation space, high-speed internet, access to Innovation and Development Lab and ICT infrastructure, mentorship from domain experts, technical handholding, networking opportunities, market-connect, investor access, and advisory support in HR, legal, accounting, IPR, and patenting.
- Disbursement
- Milestone Based
- Duration
- 2 months
Timelines & Process
Selection Process
The selection process is multi-stage, commencing with an initial eligibility screening of all applications. This is followed by a comprehensive technical and commercial evaluation of the qualified submissions. Startups that successfully clear these stages will be invited for a pitching and presentation round. The final selection will be made by a designated committee, based on the overall evaluation and pitch performance.
Application Process
- 1
Apply Online
Submit your application through the official program portal.
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How to apply
Four steps from draft to disbursement — one action each.
- 1
Submit on the official portal
Use the official application link and verify all details before final submission.
- 2
Follow up
Reach out 5–7 days after submitting to confirm receipt and ask about the review timeline.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the funding amount available?
Shortlisted startups can receive up to **₹25 lakh** in equity-linked funding, split into two parts: ₹2.50 lakh in Incubator Equity/Market Access Support and up to ₹22.50 lakh in Investment Equity/Growth Funding.
What stages of startups are eligible?
Startups at **ideation, validation, early-traction, or scaling stages** are eligible to apply.
Is DPIIT recognition mandatory?
While DPIIT registered startups are encouraged to participate, individual academicians, researchers, educators, entrepreneurs, partnership firms, and LLPs may also apply. If selected, they shall be required to register as a Private Limited Company.
What is the duration of the program?
The program involves a **two-month Proof-of-Concept (PoC) cycle** for selected startups, from the date of commencement.
Who can apply?
Startups registered with DPIIT, individual academicians, researchers, educators, entrepreneurs, partnership firms, and LLPs can apply. However, non-company entities must register as a Private Limited Company if selected.
Sources
Data on this page is compiled from official program and provider references.
