iCreate Drone Challenge 2025

About this scheme

The **iCreate Drone Challenge 2025** is a national deep-tech initiative designed to identify, nurture, and accelerate groundbreaking drone technologies from innovators, students, and startups across India. The vision is to strengthen India's goal of becoming a global drone hub by 2030.

The challenge is divided into two tracks: **Aerial Excellence** (Speed, Payload, Endurance) and **Component Indigenisation** (Propulsion, Avionics, Sensors, etc.).

Key Benefits and Support:

* **Funding Pool:** Opportunity to pitch for a funding pool of up to **Rs. 2 Crore** from iCreate.
* **Acceleration:Fully sponsored residential Prototype Acceleration Programme** at iCreate (worth \~Rs. 6L per team).
* **Pilot Opportunities:** Unlock **paid pilot opportunities** with industry and government partners.
* **Technical Support:** Access to state-of-the-art labs, rapid prototyping facilities, software credits, and expert technical mentorship.
* **Ecosystem Access:** Connections to a vast network of angel investors, VCs, corporate partners, and national recognition.

Know more about the tracks and themes here: [iCreate Drone Challenge](https://idc.icreate.org.in)

Who can apply

• **Applicant Type:** Open to **Startups**, **innovators**, **student teams**, and **R&D groups registered in India**.
• **Prototype Requirement:** Must be able to **demonstrate their prototypes** at the zonal qualifier rounds (Phase 3).
• **Track 1 (Aerial Excellence):** Innovations focusing on speed, payload, or endurance.
• **Track 2 (Component Indigenisation):** Focus on making critical components indigenous (e.g., Propulsion, Energy Systems, Avionics, Sensors).

Frequently asked questions