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PW AI Startup Challenge 2026

AI startup and student innovation challenge offering funding, accelerator access, incubation, and growth support.

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Funding amount
Up to INR 1 Crore
Scheme
PW AI Startup Challenge 2026
Open for
Open to applicants across India., Application fee: Nil., Final event to be held at PW Headquarters, Noida, Uttar Pradesh on 20–21 August 2026.
Deadline
Apply by 30 July 2026

About the Program

PW AI Startup Challenge 2026 is designed to discover, fund, and accelerate the next generation of AI-driven startups and student innovators across Bharat. The program includes three flagship tracks: Startup Funding Challenge, Student Innovation Challenge, and AI Conference.

Eligibility requirements

  • For Startups:
  • * Registered Indian startup (DPIIT or equivalent recognition preferred)
  • * AI-first or AI-enabled product or service with a core AI component
  • * Revenue stage startups from Seed to Series A
  • * At least one founder must be an Indian citizen or resident
  • For Students:
  • * Students from any discipline
  • * Teams of 1–4 members
  • * At least one member must currently be enrolled as a student
  • * AI-first idea applicable to EdTech, FinTech, Defence Technology, or Healthcare

Offerings / Benefits

  • For Top 10 Startups:
  • * Funding up to INR 1 Crore per startup
  • * Access to PW AI Growth Accelerator program
  • * Grant facilitation up to INR 10 Lakhs under the StartinUP scheme
  • * Market access opportunities
  • * Intern hiring support from PW campuses
  • * Technology and business mentorship
  • For Top 10 Student Teams:
  • * Cash prizes up to INR 90,000
  • * Incubation opportunities with PW Incubation Centre
  • * Grant facilitation up to INR 10 Lakhs under the StartinUP scheme
  • * Aarambh startup immersion program access
  • * Product development support
  • * Scholarships and admissions opportunities at IOI campuses

Sectors supported

Artificial IntelligenceEdTechFinTechDefence TechnologyHealthcareAI, SaaS & Enterprise TechEdTech & Social ImpactSpace, Drone & DefenseHealth, Pharma & Biotech

Selection process

  • Application submission.
  • Screening and evaluation of startup or student innovation proposals.
  • Shortlisting of top participants.
  • Final challenge and presentations at PW Headquarters, Noida during the event on 20–21 August 2026.

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