Physics Wallah AI Startup Challenge 2026

• AI-first startups.
• AI-enabled startups with a core AI product or service.
• Seed to Series A startups.
• Registered Indian startups.
• Founders developing innovative AI solutions across multiple industries.

About this scheme

The Physics Wallah AI Startup Challenge 2026 is a national initiative by Physics Wallah School of Startups aimed at identifying, funding, and celebrating India's most promising AI-driven startups. The programme provides an opportunity for founders to showcase innovative AI-powered products and secure equity investment while becoming part of a growing startup ecosystem.

The challenge is open to registered Indian startups developing AI-first or AI-enabled products or services with a core artificial intelligence component. Startups from the Seed to Series A stage are encouraged to apply, particularly those working in sectors such as EdTech, FinTech, Healthcare, Robotics Surgery, Defence Technology, Drone Mobility, DeepTech, B2B SaaS, Agriculture, Aerospace, Renewable Energy, Green Technology, and Indic Language Technologies.

Selected startups receive the opportunity to raise equity funding from Physics Wallah, gain visibility among investors and industry stakeholders, and benefit from ecosystem support that can help accelerate commercialization and business growth. There is no application fee, making the programme accessible to innovative founders across India.

Who can apply

• Must be a registered Indian startup (DPIIT or equivalent recognition preferred)
• Must have an AI-first or AI-enabled product or service with a core AI component.
• Startup should be at the Seed to Series A stage.
• At least one founder must be an Indian citizen or resident.
• No application fee is required.

Eligible entity types: Private Limited, LLP, Partnership

Benefits & funding

• Opportunity to receive equity funding from Physics Wallah.
• National recognition through a leading AI startup challenge.
• Exposure to investors and startup ecosystem stakeholders.
• Opportunity to showcase innovative AI products.
• Networking opportunities with founders, mentors, and investors.
• Increased visibility and growth opportunities for selected startups.

How the application process works

The journey below is informational, compiled from the official program guidelines. Applications are submitted directly with Physics Wallah School of Startups, in your own name.

1. 1

   Review the eligibility criteria and ensure your startup is registered in India and operates with an AI-first or AI-enabled product that includes a core AI component.

2. 2

   Prepare your startup profile, pitch deck, product demonstration, business model, traction details, and commercialization roadmap.

3. 3

   Complete the official online application form with accurate information about your startup, founding team, technology, target market, and funding requirements.

4. 4

   Clearly explain how artificial intelligence powers your solution, the problem being solved, your competitive advantage, and the market opportunity.

5. 5

   Submit the completed application through the official Physics Wallah School of Startups platform. There is no application fee.

6. 6

   Applications will be reviewed by the programme team. Shortlisted startups may be invited for additional evaluation, discussions, product demonstrations, or investor pitches.

7. 7

   Selected startups will receive an opportunity to secure equity investment from Physics Wallah and gain access to networking, ecosystem support, and investor engagement.

Documents checklist 8

• Startup Profile
• Pitch Deck
• Certificate of Incorporation
• Founder Details
• Product Overview
• Business Plan
• AI Product Demonstration (if available)
• DPIIT Recognition Certificate (preferred, if available)

Need help getting these in order? IncorpX provides assistance for incorporation, DPIIT recognition, MSME and GST registrations along with document preparation.

Frequently asked questions