Defence India Startup Challenge 14 (DISC 14) - Defence Innovation Organisation

About this grant

The Defence India Startup Challenge 14 (DISC 14) is a flagship innovation initiative launched under the aegis of the Defence Innovation Organisation, functioning within the Department of Defence Production, Ministry of Defence. The program is designed to harness the innovation capabilities of Indian startups, MSMEs, and individual innovators to address critical technological gaps faced by the Indian Armed Forces. This edition of DISC features 82 problem statements sourced from the Indian Army, Indian Navy, Indian Air Force, and Indian Coast Guard. These problem statements span a wide range of advanced defence technologies including artificial intelligence, autonomous systems, advanced materials, electronic warfare, drone systems, and surveillance technologies. The challenges are rooted in real-world operational needs, ensuring that solutions developed under this program have direct deployment potential in defence environments. Selected participants receive funding support of up to ₹1.5 crore to develop prototypes and solutions. The funding is structured to support different phases of product development, including design, prototyping, testing, and validation. The initiative emphasizes indigenous capability development, reducing dependency on imports, and strengthening India's defence manufacturing ecosystem. Beyond funding, DISC 14 provides startups with access to defence experts, testing facilities, certification pathways, and potential procurement opportunities. This ecosystem support is critical in enabling startups to navigate the complexities of defence-grade product development, including compliance with stringent military standards and certifications.

Eligibility requirements

All of the following criteria must be met:

• Open to startups, MSMEs, and individual innovators
• Applicants should be capable of developing solutions for defence-related problem statements
• Participation is expected from entities working in deeptech, AI/ML, robotics, electronics, and advanced engineering domains
• Solutions must align with one or more of the 82 problem statements issued by defence forces
• Entities should have the technical capability to build prototypes and undergo defence-grade testing

What the funding covers

• Funding: Upto: ₹1.5 Cr

How to apply

1. 1Check eligibility as a startup, MSME, or individual innovator targeting the 82 defence problem statements in areas like deeptech, AI, and robotics.
2. 2Register or log in on the official iDEX portal at idex.gov.in/challenges.
3. 3Select a challenge from DISC 14 and prepare a proposal including entity details, solution, and funding needs up to ₹1.5 crore.
4. 4Submit the application through the portal before May 4, 2026, 5 PM, including patents or research if applicable.
5. 5Applications are evaluated by an expert committee, and shortlisted applicants receive funding, testing support, and mentorship.
6. 6Track updates through portal notifications and email.

Application tips