KickSky Space Lab, India's first venture-capital-backed accelerator dedicated exclusively to space technology, has opened applications for the third cohort of its programme. The announcement, reported on October 21, 2026, is a timely addition to startup funding in India news for the country's fast-growing spacetech pipeline.
The six-month programme combines four months of active acceleration with two months of post-programme support, and the new cohort is expected to begin on December 1, 2026. KickSky plans to select five to six companies, which will receive a $10,000 stipend, customised technical and business mentorship, commercialisation support, and introductions to investors, customers and industry partners.
Founded in 2023 by deep-tech investors Riceberg Ventures, E2MC Ventures and Aniara Space, KickSky has supported 11 startups across its first two cohorts. Six graduates have secured funding or exited, according to the organisation - an unusually strong hit rate for an accelerator this young.
What KickSky's track record means for spacetech founders
In June 2026, startup discovery platform Ideabaaz acquired a 25% strategic stake in KickSky, deepening its investment and go-to-market reach. KickSky is also developing partnerships to help startups with legal, regulatory, banking, testing and launch-related requirements.
Why it matters for founders
Spacetech accelerators with real funding outcomes are rare in India - KickSky's six funded-or-exited graduates make this cohort worth a serious look. If you are building in space, the $10,000 stipend plus investor introductions beats most generalist accelerators on relevance alone.