UDAAN Drone Center of Excellence Program
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Quick Answer
Accelerator program for DPIIT-registered drone startups across India.
- Funding amount
- Varies
- Funding type
- Grant
- Provider
- SIIC IIT Kanpur
- Application deadline
- Rolling
- Location
- Open to startups registered in India
About this grant
The UDAAN Drone Center of Excellence Program is an acceleration initiative spearheaded by SIIC IIT Kanpur, a prominent incubator dedicated to fostering innovation and entrepreneurship. SIIC, the Startup Incubation and Innovation Centre at IIT Kanpur, leverages the institution's academic and research excellence to support startups in critical technological domains. This program is designed to propel drone startups and innovators forward by providing a comprehensive ecosystem for development and growth, aiming to empower them to lead in the rapidly evolving drone industry.
While direct funding from SIIC is determined on a case-by-case basis, the program offers substantial financial guidance. Startups receive briefings on various funding programs and expert assistance in structuring proposals and pitch decks to enhance their chances of securing financial support. This includes active help in applying for relevant government funding schemes such as iDEX, Technology Development Fund (TDF), TIDE, Genesis, TDB, and Make-1 & 2.
A core offering of the program is unparalleled access to the Center of Excellence, enabling startups to conduct crucial UAV/UAS testing activities with specialized equipment and facilities. Participants also benefit from direct guidance provided by the esteemed faculty of IIT Kanpur, which helps streamline operations and accelerate their transition into established companies. The program includes a Demo Day at its conclusion, allowing startups to showcase their progress to investors and partners. Further support encompasses arranged mentorship tailored to learning paths, opportunities for physical incubation space at SIIC post-program, and facilitated connections with corporate and government agencies.
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
The Startup Incubation and Innovation Centre (SIIC) is the startup incubator at IIT Kanpur. It was established in 2000 and now operates under the Foundation for Innovation & Research in Science & Technology (FIRST), IIT Kanpur. It works from two sites: the IIT Kanpur campus at…
Learn moreBenefits & Funding
- Fund type
- Grant
- Equity
- Equity-free
- Repayment
- Non-repayable
What You Get
Case-by-case funding from SIIC, financial guidance, and proposal assistance for government schemes (iDEX, TDF, TIDE, Genesis, TDB, Make-1 & 2). Benefits include access to a Center of Excellence for UAV/UAS testing, IIT Kanpur faculty guidance, Demo Day, tailored mentorship, post-program incubation space, and connections with corporate and government agencies.
- Bootstrap friendly
- Yes
Timelines & Process
Applications
Rolling basis
Selection Process
Applicants submit a detailed online application covering team, drone technology, development stage, and market opportunity. Shortlisted startups are invited for a virtual or in-person interview with a selection committee of SIIC representatives, IIT Kanpur faculty, and industry experts. Top contenders present in a final pitching session before successful applicants are notified to join the cohort.
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
See the questions before you start
Download every question this programme's application form asks, so you can prepare your answers offline before opening the portal.
- 3
Line up your documents
Keep every document from the checklist ready in one folder. Missing docs are the #1 reason applications get bounced.
- 4
Submit on the official portal
Use the official application link and verify all details before final submission.
- 5
Follow up
Reach out 5–7 days after submitting to confirm receipt and ask about the review timeline.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the startup stage we are looking for?
The program is seeking startups that are at an early stage, with at least a Minimum Viable Product (MVP), up to those in their growth or scale stage.
Why should I join this program?
Selected startups will gain access to the Center of Excellence for UAV/UAS testing, receive guidance from esteemed IIT Kanpur faculty, and leverage UDAAN program resources to accelerate their growth and navigate industry complexities.
Will there be sessions related to funding or fund-raising?
Yes, startups will be briefed periodically on funding programs and receive guidance on structuring proposals and pitch decks. Assistance for applying to government funding programs such as iDEX, Technology Development Fund (TDF), TIDE, Genesis, TDB, and Make-1 & 2 will also be provided.
Will SIIC be funding us in any way?
Yes, funding from SIIC will be provided on a case-to-case basis.
Does the startup have to be registered and/or in Uttar Pradesh?
No, the program is open to DPIIT-registered startups across all states in India.
Sources
Data on this page is compiled from official program and provider references.
