iDEX Open Challenge, SPARK grant (via DRDO iDEX)
Offered by DRDO iDEX
Overview
The iDEX Open Challenge is a track of Innovations for Defence Excellence (iDEX), the operational framework of India's Defence Innovation Organisation (DIO). Unlike the DISC and ADITI tracks where problem statements originate from the military, Open Challenge lets innovators themselves identify critical defence and dual use challenges and submit suo-moto proposals for them.
Eligibility
- Individual innovators, startups, MSMEs, and research institutions can apply
- Startups must have majority Indian stake
- No restriction against applicants with a civilian sector background
- Both software and hardware solutions are accepted
- No minimum Technology Readiness Level (TRL) is required
- Joint ventures or consortiums are not permitted
Funding Purpose
Grant in aid of up to Rs. 1.5 crore, subject to Product Development Budget approval, funds the co-creation of novel, indigenized, and innovative technologies for potential adoption by the Armed Forces and defence production units, disbursed across six milestones.
Application Process
Applicants log in or create an account at www.idex.gov.in, select the Open Challenge category, complete and submit the application form, and then track their status via the online dashboard. The application window remains open throughout the year, with evaluations conducted roughly every 3 months.
How to Apply
- 1Click "Apply Now" above and submit your application directly on the official page.
- 2The offering organisation screens applications against its own eligibility criteria.
- 3Shortlisted applicants may be invited to a pitch or interview round.
- 4The final decision rests solely with the offering organisation.
- 5There is no guarantee of funding at any stage.
Before You Apply
- ZeedFund is an independent tracker, not the offering organisation or a funding body.
- Verify current eligibility, funding amount, and deadline on the official page before applying. Details can change after we last verified them.
- Once you apply, all follow-up (screening updates, interview or pitch invites, and the final decision) comes directly from the facilitator, incubator, or investor, never from ZeedFund. Check their application portal or email yourself for status updates; we won't have visibility into it.