ChallengeEquitySeedEarly revenue

AWE Tech Innovation Challenge 2026

Equity investment program for impact-driven technology startups solving health, agriculture, climate, and deep technology challenges.

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Funding amount

USD 100,000–300,000 Equity Investment

Scheme

AWE Tech Innovation Challenge

Open for

Open to India-based startups., Applications close on 31 July 2026., Funding decisions are made solely at the discretion of the AWE Funds Investment Committee.

Deadline

Apply by 31 July 2026

About the Program

The AWE Tech Innovation Challenge is an investment initiative managed by AWE Funds, powered by the Evergreen Philanthropic Fund (EPF), and supported by the Bayer Foundation and AWE Foundation. The program backs technology-driven startups building scalable, impact-focused solutions for underserved and climate-vulnerable communities across India. The challenge provides long-term patient equity capital along with strategic investor access, industry partnerships, and fundraising support to help startups scale their impact.

Eligibility requirements

* India-based startups
* Early-stage or growth-stage startups
* Technology-led or DeepTech innovations
* Scalable and measurable impact-driven solutions
* Founders solving challenges for underserved communities
* Startups operating in Health, Climate Resilience, Sustainable Agriculture, or related impact sectors

Offerings / Benefits

* Equity investment of USD 100,000–300,000 for selected startups
* Long-term patient capital
* Direct evaluation by the AWE investment team
* Industry and corporate partner introductions
* Investor access and fundraising support
* Opportunity to pitch before AWE leadership, industry experts, and Investment Committee
* Strategic ecosystem and collaboration opportunities

Sectors supported

HealthTechClimateTechClimate ResilienceSustainable AgricultureAgriTechDeepTechAgri, Food & RuralHealth, Pharma & BiotechClimate, Energy & EVDeepTech, Electronics & Robotics

Selection process

Applications are reviewed and scored by the AWE investment team.
Top 20 startups pitch to the AWE Leadership team.
Top 10 startups pitch to industry experts.
Top 5 startups present before the Investment Committee for funding consideration.
Final investment decisions are made by AWE Funds.

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