A fresh government scheme for startups has opened: Karnataka's Department of Electronics, IT and Biotechnology has launched ELEVATE NxT 2026-27, offering grants of up to ₹1 crore to DeepTech ventures. Applications close on November 13, 2026 — about a month after the October 13 opening.

Eligibility: who can apply

ELEVATE NxT 2026-27 is designed for startups developing DeepTech products and solutions based on scientific discovery, research and advanced engineering. Priority sectors include artificial intelligence, generative AI, quantum technologies, drones, autonomous systems, robotics, advanced materials, industrial automation and space technologies. The inaugural edition drew 983 applications from across India and supported 33 DeepTech startups with ₹30 crore in seed funding — 12 of them led by women entrepreneurs.

Selection runs through application submission, eligibility screening, assessment of DeepTech credentials, pitching and a Grand Finale evaluation. Startups are assessed on scientific foundations, R&D, commercialisation strategy, socio-economic impact, the expertise of founding teams and proposed budget utilisation.

How to apply for the ELEVATE NxT grant

Apply through the Department of Electronics, IT and Biotechnology's official website before the November 13, 2026 deadline. Grants are released in two tranches, tied to completion of formalities and achievement of approved milestones — not as an upfront lump sum. Beyond the money, selected startups get mentoring, incubation, technology validation and market-linkage support through Karnataka's startup ecosystem.

Why it matters for founders

Non-dilutive ₹1 crore cheques for genuine DeepTech R&D are rare — this is one of the few. The bar is technical credibility and milestones, so apply with a crisp commercialisation plan, not just a research thesis. If your sector isn't on the priority list but you are genuinely DeepTech, the evaluation criteria still leave room — but do verify the detailed eligibility conditions and documentation on the department's site before the November 13 cutoff.