Deadline Date: July 15, 2026
NERVE CoE has launched the Open Challenge Program (OCP) to support DeepTech and AI-driven startups by providing infrastructure, funding, mentorship, and market access opportunities through its incubation programme in Nagpur.
The programme focuses on emerging sectors including AgriTech, HealthTech, Forestry and Environment, and Mining.
Applications are now open for Cohort 1 of the 18-month incubation programme hosted at STPI Nagpur. Supported by MeitY, NERVE CoE aims to help startups build innovative solutions by offering access to GPU infrastructure, expert mentoring, seed funding, and incubation facilities. The initiative is designed to assist startups in moving from the idea stage to achieving market traction.
Selected startups will receive dedicated AI and GPU computing resources for training and deployment, eliminating the need for external cloud computing expenses. Participants will also benefit from bootcamp-style mentoring sessions covering product validation, unit economics, and investor readiness. In addition, startups may receive seed funding support of up to Rs. 50 lakhs along with introductions to venture capital firms and funding agencies.
The programme also provides go-to-market support through workshops, enterprise connections, and market-access opportunities. Startups will have access to intellectual property and legal assistance, including patent filing support, legal guidance, and accounting services. A fully equipped incubation facility with high-speed connectivity and conference rooms is available at STPI Nagpur.
NERVE CoE follows an equity-based incubation model for high-impact deep tech startups. In exchange for access to infrastructure, mentoring, funding facilitation, and market opportunities, the programme takes a nominal equity stake. Specific equity terms are discussed transparently during the selection process and are determined on a case-by-case basis.
Eligible applicants include private limited companies, registered partnership firms, and LLPs incorporated in India. Pre-incorporation founders may also apply, provided they complete registration within three months of selection. Startups should have been incorporated within the last ten years, while deep tech startups may qualify within an extended twenty-year window. Annual turnover limits are set at Rs. 200 crores for startups and Rs. 300 crores for deep tech startups.
The selection process begins with submission of an online application containing details about the team, product stage, and business plan. Applications are then evaluated based on innovation, team capability, product readiness, and market potential. Shortlisted applicants will pitch their solutions to the NERVE CoE selection committee, where equity terms will be discussed openly. Successful startups will then be onboarded into the cohort and gain access to programme resources from the start of incubation.
The standard incubation period is 18 months and may be extended by up to six additional months based on requirements and availability. While the incubation facility is based in Nagpur, any remote or hybrid participation arrangements will be considered during onboarding.
For more information, visit Sayuj.
