GTU Ventures Incubation Center invited applications from innovative deep-tech startups for internal screening and potential nomination to the India–UK InnoXchange Programme 2026. The bilateral initiative, led by the Department of Science and Technology, Government of India, and Innovate UK, aims to strengthen collaboration between the Indian and UK deep-tech ecosystems.
Selected participants will have the opportunity to explore the UK innovation ecosystem, develop international partnerships and identify opportunities for research collaboration, technology development, investment and market access.
Program Benefits
• Explore the UK innovation and entrepreneurship ecosystem.
• Build partnerships with research institutions, industries, investors, incubators and technology leaders.
• Gain insights into the UK’s technology, business and regulatory environment.
• Explore opportunities for collaborative research and joint product development.
• Identify potential technology-transfer, commercialization and market-access opportunities.
• Participate in meetings, workshops, institutional visits and networking activities in the United Kingdom.
Eligibility and Ideal Candidates
• GTU Ventures’ call was intended for deep-tech and technology-led startups seeking consideration for nomination.
• Applicants should be developing innovative products or technologies with international collaboration potential.
• Founders and co-founders interested in entering the UK market or partnering with the UK innovation ecosystem were encouraged to apply.
• Applications submitted to GTU Ventures were subject to an internal screening process.
• Submission of an application did not guarantee nomination, and only shortlisted startups would be contacted for the next stage.
• Under the official programme, eligible incubators may nominate two or three deep-tech startups that they support or incubate.
Key Technology Sectors
The official first programme cycle focuses on advanced manufacturing, particularly:
• Advanced battery manufacturing
• Advanced semiconductors
• Electronics manufacturing
GTU Ventures’ internal call also welcomed startups working in the following deep-tech fields:
• Artificial intelligence and machine learning
• Robotics
• Industrial automation
• Internet of Things
• Advanced materials
• CleanTech and ClimateTech
• SpaceTech
• Drones
• Biotechnology
• MedTech
• AgriTech
• Quantum technology
• Photonics
• Cybersecurity
• Other deep-tech innovations
Application Information
• GTU Ventures Internal Screening Deadline: July 11, 2026, at 11:59 p.m. IST
• Official Programme Application Deadline: July 17, 2026
• Nominating Body: GTU Ventures Incubation Center conducted an internal screening process to identify startups for potential nomination.
• Programme Organizers: Department of Science and Technology, Government of India, and Innovate UK, part of UK Research and Innovation.
• Indian Implementing Partner: Foundation for Innovation and Technology Transfer, IIT Delhi.
• Proposed UK Delegation Visit: September 2026
The India–UK InnoXchange Programme provides a structured pathway for selected Indian deep-tech startups and incubation professionals to engage with the UK innovation ecosystem. Interested applicants should consult the official DST-NIDHI programme page and GTU Ventures’ application announcement for complete eligibility, nomination and selection details.