SPARK Grant Scheme 2026 – Up to ₹1.5 Cr Non-Dilutive Prototype & R&D Grant for Startups
Support for Prototype and Research Kickstart (SPARK) under iDEX & Defence Innovation Organisation (DIO)
SPARK Grant by iDEX (Innovations for Defence Excellence) provides financial grant support of up to ₹1.5 Crore (and up to ₹10 Cr under iDEX Prime) to Indian startups, MSMEs, and individual innovators developing dual-use prototypes, aerospace, defence, AI, drone, and high-tech solutions.
Who Can Apply?
Verified criteria and borrower eligibility guidelines set by the Government of India.
DPIIT-Recognised Startups
Startups registered with DPIIT having high-potential innovations in defence, aerospace, cyber, AI, robotics, or advanced hardware.
Registered MSMEs
Manufacturing and technology MSMEs with valid Udyam Registration looking to accelerate prototype development and deeptech R&D.
Individual Innovators
Researchers, tech founders, and innovators with breakthrough solutions (must incorporate an Indian startup entity before grant disbursement).
Indian-Owned Entities
Companies incorporated in India where at least 51% shareholding is held by Indian citizens or Indian-controlled entities.
TRL Level 3+ Innovators
Innovations at Proof-of-Concept (PoC) or lab prototype stage ready for engineering validation and minimum viable product development.
Dual-Use Tech Creators
Enterprises designing innovative technologies with large civilian commercial markets as well as strategic defence/security applications.
Key Features
Core benefits, guarantees, and subsidy structures under this flagship program.
Milestone-Based Grant Tranches
100% non-dilutive grant funds disbursed in structured milestones tied to technical prototype deliverables.
Direct Tri-Services Access
Direct access to Indian Armed Forces (Army, Navy, Air Force, Coast Guard) for trials, testing, and operational feedback.
Defence Innovation Hubs
Partner Incubator mentorship, testing facilities, and lab infrastructure across top IITs, IIMs, and defence research centers.
Fast-Track Procurement Gateway
Successful prototypes get expedited paths to Defence Acquisition Procedure (DAP) and commercial procurement contracts.
Zero Equity Dilution
Founders retain 100% equity and intellectual property (IP) rights with no government equity stake.
Scale to iDEX Prime
High-performing ventures can qualify for up to ₹10 Crore scale-up grants under iDEX Prime challenges.
Scheme Benefits
Application Process
Challenge Selection & Proposal
Identify eligible Defence India Startup Challenge (DISC) / Open Challenge problem statement and formulate technical pitch.
iDEX Portal Application
Submit comprehensive technical proposal, milestone timelines, financial budget, and DPIIT startup proofs on the iDEX portal.
High-Powered Screening & Pitching
Present prototype design and feasibility before the High-Powered Selection Committee (HPSC) and Defence domain experts.
Agreement Signing & Tranche 1 Release
Execute tripartite agreement with DIO & Partner Incubator to receive initial advance grant tranche.
Milestone Execution & Field Trials
Build prototype, achieve technical milestones, conduct live field testing with Armed Forces, and claim subsequent milestone grants.
Documents Required
Keep the following paperwork ready for instant verification and fast processing.
Frequently Asked Questions
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