Wadhwani Innovation Network CoE Call for Proposals 2026
Up to Rs. 1Cr for TRL-4+ deeptech startups with IIT Hyderabad collaboration
- Startups and academic researchers with TRL 4+ technology at product or revenue stage.
About this scheme
The Wadhwani Innovation Network (WIN) Centre of Excellence at IIT Hyderabad has launched its Call for Proposals for March 2026, inviting Expressions of Interest (EOI) from innovators, startups, and research-driven teams working on high-impact technology solutions. This initiative is designed to accelerate the development and commercialization of advanced technologies by supporting projects that have already achieved a minimum level of technical validation.
The program specifically targets projects with a Technology Readiness Level (TRL) of 4 or higher. By focusing on this stage, the initiative aims to bridge the critical gap between early-stage research and real-world deployment, enabling promising innovations to progress toward scalable applications.
Selected projects may receive funding support of up to INR 1 crore, with a project duration of up to two years. This funding is intended to support further development, validation, and potential commercialization of the proposed technology. In addition to financial support, the program provides access to IIT Hyderabad's academic ecosystem, fostering collaboration between startups, faculty members, and interdisciplinary research groups.
A defining feature of the program is its emphasis on collaborative innovation. Startups and industry participants are required to actively collaborate with faculty members from IIT Hyderabad, ensuring that projects benefit from strong academic guidance and research expertise. This collaboration model enhances the scientific rigor and practical applicability of the solutions being developed.
The program focuses on a broad range of deep technology domains, including artificial intelligence, advanced manufacturing, aerospace, climate and sustainability, health technologies, quantum technologies, and critical minerals. These areas are aligned with national priorities and emerging global technology trends.
Who can apply
- Applicants must demonstrate Technology Readiness Level (TRL) of 4 or above
- Technology should be validated in a laboratory environment or have a working prototype
- TRL 1, 3 (concept-stage ideas) are not eligible
- Technology startups
- Faculty members
- Interdisciplinary research groups
- Faculty, startup collaborative teams
- Startups and industry applicants must collaborate with an IIT Hyderabad faculty member
- Proposals must align with focus areas such as AI, aerospace, advanced manufacturing, climate tech, healthtech, quantum technologies, and related domains
- Projects should demonstrate feasibility and potential for real-world application and impact
Eligible entity types: LLP, Private Limited
Ready to apply? Get the official link
Applications are submitted directly with Wadhwani Foundation, in your own name. Share a few details and we will point you to the official application portal and help you prepare a complete submission.
Here is the official application link
Apply in your own name with Wadhwani Foundation. Want a second pair of eyes before you submit? An IncorpX advisor can help you prepare.
Open the official applicationFrequently asked questions
How much funding does Wadhwani Innovation Network CoE Call for Proposals 2026 provide?
Wadhwani Innovation Network CoE Call for Proposals 2026 provides up to Rs. 1 Cr. The exact amount sanctioned depends on the proposal and the evaluation by the program authority.
Is Wadhwani Innovation Network CoE Call for Proposals 2026 currently accepting applications?
Closed on Mar 31, 2026. Always confirm the current window with the program authority before preparing your application.
Does Wadhwani Innovation Network CoE Call for Proposals 2026 take equity?
No. This program is listed as equity-free, which means the funding does not dilute your shareholding. Review the official terms for any debt or convertible components.
IncorpX is a private platform operated by a private company. It is not a government department, agency or official portal, and it is not affiliated with, endorsed by, or acting on behalf of any government body or of any organisation, incubator, accelerator, investor or partner listed in this directory. All program names, logos and trademarks are the property of their respective owners and are used for identification only.
This directory is compiled from publicly available official sources and is provided for general information only. It does not constitute legal, financial, tax or professional advice. Funding amounts, eligibility criteria, required documents, deadlines and availability are determined by each program authority and change with every cycle, so the details shown here may be incomplete or out of date. Always confirm the current terms on the official program source before you apply or take any decision.
IncorpX charges no fee for the information in this directory and does not collect, process, lodge or submit any application on your behalf. Applications are made by you, in your own name, directly with the respective program authority. IncorpX provides assistance only for application preparation and for related registrations such as company incorporation, DPIIT recognition, MSME (Udyam) and GST. Eligibility, approval, disbursement and selection rest solely with the respective program authority, and IncorpX makes no representation or guarantee as to any outcome.
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