UDAAN Drone Center of Excellence Program

• DPIIT-recognised drone or deeptech startups at product or revenue stage.

About this scheme

The UDAAN Drone Center of Excellence Program is an acceleration initiative spearheaded by SIIC IIT Kanpur, a prominent incubator dedicated to fostering innovation and entrepreneurship. SIIC, the Startup Incubation and Innovation Centre at IIT Kanpur, leverages the institution's academic and research excellence to support startups in critical technological domains. This program is designed to propel drone startups and innovators forward by providing a comprehensive ecosystem for development and growth, aiming to empower them to lead in the rapidly evolving drone industry.

While direct funding from SIIC is determined on a case-by-case basis, the program offers substantial financial guidance. Startups receive briefings on various funding programs and expert assistance in structuring proposals and pitch decks to enhance their chances of securing financial support. This includes active help in applying for relevant government funding schemes such as iDEX, Technology Development Fund (TDF), TIDE, Genesis, TDB, and Make-1 & 2.

A core offering of the program is unparalleled access to the Center of Excellence, enabling startups to conduct crucial UAV/UAS testing activities with specialized equipment and facilities. Participants also benefit from direct guidance provided by the esteemed faculty of IIT Kanpur, which helps streamline operations and accelerate their transition into established companies. The program includes a Demo Day at its conclusion, allowing startups to showcase their progress to investors and partners. Further support encompasses arranged mentorship tailored to learning paths, opportunities for physical incubation space at SIIC post-program, and facilitated connections with corporate and government agencies.

Who can apply

• Applicants must be at an early stage, with a minimum viable product (MVP), or in their growth/scale stage.
• The program seeks startups with demonstrated initial traction and a clear path to commercialization.
• A mandatory requirement is that applicants must be registered as a DPIIT recognized startup, aligning with national initiatives for innovative Indian ventures.
• The program is open to startups operating anywhere across India, ensuring broad participation.

Eligible entity types: Private Limited, LLP, Partnership

Benefits & funding

• Case-by-case funding from SIIC, financial guidance, and proposal assistance for government schemes (iDEX, TDF, TIDE, Genesis, TDB, Make-1 & 2).
• Benefits include access to a Center of Excellence for UAV/UAS testing, IIT Kanpur faculty guidance, Demo Day, tailored mentorship, post-program incubation space, and connections with corporate and government agencies.

How the application process works

The journey below is informational, compiled from the official program guidelines. Applications are submitted directly with SIIC IIT Kanpur, in your own name.

1. 1

   Applicants submit a detailed online application covering team, drone technology, development stage, and market opportunity.

2. 2

   Shortlisted startups are invited for a virtual or in-person interview with a selection committee of SIIC representatives, IIT Kanpur faculty, and industry experts.

3. 3

   Top contenders present in a final pitching session before successful applicants are notified to join the cohort.

Frequently asked questions