iDEX Defence Innovation Scheme:Funding for Defence Tech Startups
The Innovations for Defence Excellence (iDEX) scheme by the Ministry of Defence offers grants of up to ₹1.5 Crore to startups developing advanced technology solutions for India's defence and aerospace sectors.
What is the iDEX Defence Scheme?
Innovations for Defence Excellence (iDEX) is an initiative launched by the Ministry of Defence (MoD) under the Defence Innovation Organisation (DIO). It aims to create a self-reliant and innovative defence ecosystem in India by engaging startups, MSMEs and innovators to develop technology solutions for defence and aerospace challenges.
Under iDEX, the Ministry of Defence, Indian Army, Indian Navy and Indian Air Force publish specific technology 'problems' called DISC (Defence India Startup Challenges) and Open Challenges. Selected startups receive grant funding of up to ₹1.5 Crore over 18 months to prototype and validate their solutions.
iDEX is part of India's 'Make in India' and 'Atmanirbhar Bharat' initiatives and provides selected innovators a direct path to procurement by Indian defence forces — giving startups both funding and a guaranteed potential customer.
Key Benefits of the iDEX Scheme
Up to ₹1.5 Crore Grant
Non-dilutive grant funding of up to ₹1.5 Crore to develop and prototype your defence technology solution.
Direct Government Procurement
Successful prototypes have a direct pathway to procurement by the Indian Armed Forces and MoD agencies.
Access to Defence Facilities
Winners get access to defence test ranges, labs and infrastructure to validate and refine their solutions.
Mentorship & Hand-holding
iDEX partners provide technical mentorship, business development support and access to a network of industry experts.
IP Rights Retained
Startups retain full intellectual property rights over their innovations — the government does not claim IP ownership.
Market Validation
Being selected by the Ministry of Defence provides strong market validation and visibility in global defence markets.
Who Can Apply for iDEX?
iDEX is open to a range of innovators and organisations working in defence and aerospace technology domains:
DPIIT-Recognised Startups
Startups officially recognised by DPIIT under the Startup India initiative are the primary target beneficiaries.
MSMEs
Micro, Small and Medium Enterprises with relevant technology capabilities in defence or aerospace domains.
Individual Innovators
Individual technology innovators with a proof-of-concept relevant to a posted DISC challenge may apply.
Relevant Technology Domain
Solutions must address specific challenges posted by MoD — areas include AI/ML, cybersecurity, drones, propulsion, communication systems and more.
Indian Entity
The applying entity must be registered in India. Foreign-owned entities must have an Indian subsidiary.
Not a Defence PSU
Defence Public Sector Undertakings (DPSUs) and their subsidiaries are not eligible to apply.
Documents Required for iDEX Application
Prepare the following to apply for an iDEX DISC challenge:
DPIIT Certificate
DPIIT startup recognition certificate (mandatory for startups).
Company Registration
Certificate of Incorporation, LLP agreement or equivalent.
Technical Proposal
Detailed solution proposal addressing the specific DISC challenge requirements.
Team Profile
CVs of key technical and management team members demonstrating relevant expertise.
IP Documentation
Patents, patent applications or other IP documentation relevant to the proposed solution.
Financial Statements
Last 1–2 years of audited accounts or projected financials for early-stage startups.
How to Apply for iDEX
Monitor Active Challenges
Visit idex.gov.in to browse currently active DISC challenges posted by the Army, Navy, Air Force and MoD.
Register on iDEX Portal
Create your innovator profile on the iDEX portal and ensure your DPIIT recognition is current.
Submit Your Proposal
Prepare a technical proposal addressing the challenge requirements and submit within the specified deadline.
Evaluation & Shortlisting
A technical committee evaluates submissions. Shortlisted applicants may be called for a presentation.
Grant Agreement & Kickoff
Selected startups sign a grant agreement with DIO, receive initial funding tranche and begin prototype development.
Milestone Reviews & Final Assessment
Funding is released in tranches based on milestone achievement. Successful prototypes are evaluated for procurement.
Monitor Active Challenges
Visit idex.gov.in to browse currently active DISC challenges posted by the Army, Navy, Air Force and MoD.
Register on iDEX Portal
Create your innovator profile on the iDEX portal and ensure your DPIIT recognition is current.
Submit Your Proposal
Prepare a technical proposal addressing the challenge requirements and submit within the specified deadline.
Milestone Reviews & Final Assessment
Funding is released in tranches based on milestone achievement. Successful prototypes are evaluated for procurement.
Grant Agreement & Kickoff
Selected startups sign a grant agreement with DIO, receive initial funding tranche and begin prototype development.
Evaluation & Shortlisting
A technical committee evaluates submissions. Shortlisted applicants may be called for a presentation.
Frequently Asked Questions
Ready to apply for the iDEX Defence Scheme?
Enego helps defence-tech startups navigate iDEX challenges — from DPIIT recognition to technical proposal preparation and grant management.