iDEX Open Challenge
By Innovations for Defence Excellence (iDEX)
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Quick Answer
The iDEX Open Challenge invites Indian startups, innovators, and MSMEs to propose cutting-edge technologies and products for the defence and aerospace sectors, offering grants up to ₹1.5 crore and direct engagement with the military.
- Funding amount
- Up to ₹1.5 Cr
- Funding type
- Grant
- Application deadline
- 8d — 30 Sept 2026
- Location
- Open to startups registered in India
About this grant
The iDEX Open Challenge is a flagship initiative by the Defence Innovation Organisation (DIO) and iDEX, designed to foster innovation and entrepreneurship within India's critical defence and aerospace sectors. It serves as a vital bridge between India's burgeoning engineering talent and the nation's military needs, seeking to harness advanced technological capabilities for strengthening national security. The program specifically targets next-generation engineers, startups, and MSMEs who are developing solutions in areas such as autonomous systems, intelligent machines, advanced materials, predictive algorithms, and even rocket engines. Through this challenge, iDEX aims to identify and nurture innovative ideas, technologies, and products that can contribute to India's military superiority and operational effectiveness.
Participants are encouraged to propose novel ways to apply their technological expertise to solve complex challenges faced by the defence and aerospace domains. The challenge provides a unique platform for innovators to engage directly with the military, showcasing their solutions and gaining invaluable insights into real-world applications. Selected applicants receive significant financial support in the form of grants and access to a robust ecosystem of partner incubators. This comprehensive support structure is designed to help transform nascent ideas into viable, deployable solutions, thereby accelerating the indigenization of defence technologies and reducing reliance on foreign imports.
The iDEX Open Challenge is more than just a funding opportunity; it's an ecosystem builder that facilitates collaboration, mentorship, and market access within a strategically important sector. By casting a wide net, iDEX ensures that even the most ambitious and transformative ideas from across the country have a chance to contribute to national defence, driving technological self-reliance and innovation.
Eligibility
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Full eligibility criteria — entity type, stage, sector, founder profile and registration requirements — plus your fit for this program. Sign up to view.
Grant providers
Innovations for Defence Excellence (iDEX) is an initiative of the Ministry of Defence, Department of Defence Production, Government of India. It aims to foster innovation and technological development for the Indian defence sector. iDEX supports startups, MSMEs, and individual…
Learn moreDefence Innovation Organisation (DIO) – Innovations for Defence Excellence (iDEX) The Defence Innovation Organisation (DIO) is a not-for-profit Section 8 company under the Department of Defence Production, Ministry of Defence, Government of India. DIO was established to own,…
Learn moreBenefits & Funding
- Amount
- Up to ₹1.5 Cr
- Fund type
- Grant
- Equity
- Equity-free
- Repayment
- Non-repayable
What You Get
- Grant of up to ₹1.5 crore: Non-repayable funding for development and testing of defence and aerospace innovations.
- Access to iDEX ecosystem: Direct engagement with the Indian Armed Forces, DRDO, and Defence Public Sector Units.
- Mentorship and handholding: Technical guidance from defence experts and support for certification, trials, and testing.
- Procurement pathway: Identified problem statements with clear routes to procurement and deployment by the defence forces.
- Bootstrap friendly
- Yes
Timelines & Process
Selection Process
Applications for the iDEX Open Challenge undergo a rigorous multi-stage selection process. Initially, proposals submitted through the iDEX portal are screened for eligibility and alignment with defence and aerospace needs by a panel of experts. This phase assesses the novelty, technical feasibility, and potential impact of the proposed solutions. Shortlisted applicants are then invited to present their innovations directly to the iDEX grand jury. This pitching session allows innovators to articulate their vision, demonstrate their technology, and answer questions from senior defence officials, industry experts, and investors. The grand jury evaluates proposals based on their technological merit, strategic relevance, scalability, and the team's capabilities. Successful pitches lead to qualification for grants and potential investments, alongside ongoing support.
Application Process
- 1
Submit Proposal
Innovators submit their detailed proposals, including technology description and applications, via the iDEX portal.
You - 2
- 3
- 4
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
Submit on the official portal
Use the official application link and verify all details before final submission.
- 3
Follow up
Reach out 5–7 days after submitting to confirm receipt and ask about the review timeline.
Frequently Asked Questions
Who is eligible to apply for the iDEX Open Challenge?
The challenge is open to Indian startups, individual innovators, and Micro, Small, and Medium Enterprises (MSMEs) who have innovative solutions applicable to the defence and aerospace sectors.
What kind of solutions is the iDEX Open Challenge looking for?
iDEX invites proposals for innovative ideas, technologies, or products that can enhance India's military superiority in defence and aerospace. This includes areas like autonomous systems, intelligent machines, advanced materials, AI, quantum technologies, and more.
What is the maximum grant amount available?
Selected applicants can qualify for grants and investments, with grants available up to ₹1.5 crore (₹15 million) to support the development of their technologies.
How do I submit my proposal for the Open Challenge?
Participants must submit their proposals exclusively through the official iDEX portal. The proposal should include a detailed description of the technology or solution, its potential applications, and ideally, a demonstration of its feasibility.
What happens after I submit my application?
Applications are reviewed by the iDEX team and its partners. Selected applicants are offered the opportunity to pitch their solutions to the iDEX grand jury, after which they may qualify for grants and investments.
Are MSMEs required to have specific certifications to apply?
Yes, MSMEs are explicitly mentioned as eligible, implying that MSME Udyam registration is a mandatory requirement for such entities to apply.
Sources
Data on this page is compiled from official program and provider references.
