Defence Tech
iDEX Defence Innovation Scheme
Funding for Defence & Dual-Use Startups
Innovations for Defence Excellence (iDEX) is an initiative launched by the Ministry of Defence (MoD) under the Defence Innovation Organisation (DIO). It aims to create a self-reliant and innovative defence ecosystem in India by engaging startups, MSMEs and innovators to develop technology solutions for defence and aerospace challenges. Under iDEX, the Ministry of Defence, Indian Army, Indian Navy and Indian Air Force publish specific technology 'problems' called DISC (Defence India Startup Chall
Sapno Se Safalta Tak
Up to ₹1.5Cr
Grant Potential
Grant
Support Route
Startup
Applicant Focus
India
Application Access
Scheme Overview
What Is iDEX Defence Innovation Scheme?
Innovations for Defence Excellence (iDEX) is an initiative launched by the Ministry of Defence (MoD) under the Defence Innovation Organisation (DIO). It aims to create a self-reliant and innovative defence ecosystem in India by engaging startups, MSMEs and innovators to develop technology solutions for defence and aerospace challenges. Under iDEX, the Ministry of Defence, Indian Army, Indian Navy and Indian Air Force publish specific technology 'problems' called DISC (Defence India Startup Chall
Vikas Bharat helps you check fit, prepare documents and structure a complete grant-ready application file.
Why Applicants Apply
- 01
Up to ₹1.5 Crore Grant
- 02
Direct Government Procurement
- 03
Access to Defence Facilities
- 04
Mentorship & Hand-holding
- 05
IP Rights Retained
- 06
Market Validation
What You Unlock
Benefits Of iDEX Defence Innovation Scheme
Grant Support And Guidance To Help Innovators Build, Validate And Scale.
01
Up to ₹1.5 Crore Grant
Grant or incentive support aligned to scheme guidelines and project evaluation.
02
Direct Government Procurement
Mentorship and ecosystem guidance to sharpen the execution plan.
03
Access to Defence Facilities
Structured documentation support for portals and implementing agencies.
04
Mentorship & Hand-holding
Pathways to pilots, market access and follow-on opportunities.
05
IP Rights Retained
Grant or incentive support aligned to scheme guidelines and project evaluation.
06
Market Validation
Mentorship and ecosystem guidance to sharpen the execution plan.
Who Qualifies
iDEX Defence Innovation Scheme Eligibility
iDEX is open to a range of innovators and organisations working in defence and aerospace technology domains:; DPIIT-Recognised Startups: Startups officially recognised by DPIIT under the Startup India initiative are the primary target beneficiaries.; MSMEs: Micro, Small and Medium Enterprises with relevant technology capabilities in defence or aerospace domains.; Individual Innovators: Individual technology innovator
Applicant Profile
Eligible Applicant
Individuals, startups or organisations covered under the scheme guidelines.
Project Fit
A project aligned to the scheme sector, stage and impact requirements.
Innovation Focus
A technology-led, scalable or high-impact solution where required.
Project & Compliance
Stage Readiness
Idea, prototype, MVP or early traction as specified by the programme.
Compliance
Registrations, KYC and statutory documents as applicable.
Documentation
A complete proposal and supporting file ready for agency review.
How To Apply
iDEX Defence Innovation Scheme Application Process
Prepare A Complete File, Submit Through The Official Channel And Progress Through Review To Grant Support.
- STEP 01
PROCESS
Monitor Active Challenges
Visit idex.gov.in to browse currently active DISC challenges posted by the Army, Navy, Air Force and MoD.
- STEP 02
PROCESS
Register On iDEX Portal
Create your innovator profile on the iDEX portal and ensure your DPIIT recognition is current.
- STEP 03
PROCESS
Submit Your Proposal
Prepare a technical proposal addressing the challenge requirements and submit within the specified deadline.
- STEP 04
PROCESS
Evaluation & Shortlisting
A technical committee evaluates submissions. Shortlisted applicants may be called for a presentation.
- STEP 05
PROCESS
Grant Agreement & Kickoff
Selected startups sign a grant agreement with DIO, receive initial funding tranche and begin prototype development.
- STEP 06
PROCESS
Milestone Reviews & Final Assessment
Funding is released in tranches based on milestone achievement. Successful prototypes are evaluated for procurement.
Paperwork
Documents Required
Important: Vikas Bharat can help organise a complete, grant-ready documentation file.
Prepare the following to apply for an iDEX DISC challenge:
DPIIT Certificate - DPIIT startup recognition certificate (mandatory for startups).
Company Registration - Certificate of Incorporation, LLP agreement or equivalent.
Technical Proposal - Detailed solution proposal addressing the specific DISC challenge requirements.
Team Profile - CVs of key technical and management team members demonstrating relevant expertise.
IP Documentation - Patents, patent applications or other IP documentation relevant to the proposed solution.
Financial Statements - Last 1-2 years of audited accounts or projected financials for early-stage startups.
- What is iDEX Defence Innovation Scheme?
- iDEX Defence Innovation Scheme provides non-dilutive or grant-linked support to qualifying innovators, startups or organisations under its programme guidelines.
- What funding support is available?
- Selected applicants may receive support of about Up to ₹1.5Cr, subject to evaluation and scheme guidelines.
- Who is eligible to apply?
- iDEX is open to a range of innovators and organisations working in defence and aerospace technology domains:; DPIIT-Recognised Startups: Startups officially recognised by DPIIT under the Startup India initiative are the primary target beneficiaries.; MSMEs: Micro, Small and Mediu
- What documents are required?
- Prepare the following to apply for an iDEX DISC challenge:, DPIIT Certificate - DPIIT startup recognition certificate (mandatory for startups)., Company Registration - Certificate of Incorporation, LLP agreement or equivalent., Technical Proposal - Detailed solution proposal addressing the specific DISC challenge requirements..
iDEX Defence Innovation Scheme Questions, Answered
Grant Support, Eligibility, Documents And The Application Process.
What is iDEX Defence Innovation Scheme?
iDEX Defence Innovation Scheme provides non-dilutive or grant-linked support to qualifying innovators, startups or organisations under its programme guidelines.
What funding support is available?
Who is eligible to apply?
What documents are required?
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Open Mahila Empowerment SchemeSpark Grant
Innovation grants for technology-driven startup ideas and prototypes
Open Spark Grant
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