Request for Applications: Cyber Security Grand Challenge 2.0 (India)

The Cyber Security Grand Challenge stands as a testament to the commitment to fostering a culture of innovation and entrepreneurship within their nation. It plays a pivotal role in contributing to India’s ambition of becoming a global leader in the field of cybersecurity. CSGC acts as a catalyst, propelling their country closer to these ambitious goals.

Problem Statements

• API Security
  • Development of an API security solution that detects anomalies, maintains data integrity, and automatically self-heals, in the context of enterprise environments and platforms like API Setu.
• Data Security
  • Data security solutions to maintain security posture across diverse environments, detect anomalies, monitor and govern access and usage, and prevent data exfiltration.
• Wearable Device Security and Privacy
  • Security and privacy solutions for smart, connected wearable devices.
• Clone and Fake App Mitigation
  • Detecting and mitigating clone and fake apps.
• AI for Threat Detection and Incident Response
  • Autonomous monitoring through AI-powered expertise for threat detection & incident response and for self-governed actions, including integration of the solution with advance security operations.
• Securing Next-Generation Biometric Systems
  • Defending against vectors targeting next-generation biometric identification and authentication systems that withstand AI-powered threats.

Challenge Stages

• Go-to-market stage: Develop and execute a Go-To-Market (GTM) strategy. This includes planning Proof of Concepts (PoCs), identifying market entry points, and preparing for a successful product launch. Compete for the grand prize by showcasing your solution’s impact and viabilility in the cybersecurity landscape.
• Final product stage: With expert mentorship, refine and finalize your product by incorporating advanced features that are both market-relevant and cutting-edge. This stage ensures your solution is robust and ready for Real-World Application.
• MVP stage: Gain mentorship and guidance to build a Minimum Viable Product (MVP). The goal is to create a prototype or initial version of your solution that demonstrates its core functionality and aligns with market needs.
• Idea stage: Submit your innovative idea to address the Cybersecurity Grand Challenge problem statements. This stage focuses on identifying and articulating a novel solution to tackle pressing cybersecurity issues.

Key Highlights

• Focus on Entrepreneurship:
  • Special emphasis on attracting more entrepreneurs.
  • Recognition for professors and institutions offering exceptional support to students’ journeys in CSGC.
• Expanded Recognition for Startups:
  • 06 startups at the idea stage will be qualified for each problem statement.
  • Total of 36 startups recognized at the idea stage (3X increase compared to CSGC 1.0).
• Introduction of a New Stage:
  •  Go-To-Market stage to the existing stages (Idea, MVP, and Final Stage).
• Mentorship Support:
  • Technical and business mentorship will be provided throughout the journey to help startups mature into successful ventures.
• Commitment to Innovation:
  • Aims to elevate India’s standing in cybersecurity.
  • Inspires a new generation of cybersecurity leaders through enhanced support and opportunities.

Funding Information

• Cyber Security Grand Challenge 2.0 offers a total prize fund of INR 6.85 Crores, distributed across multiple stages:
  • ₹ 1.75 cr
    • 1 cr to 1st Prize Winner
    • 50 lacs to 2nd Prize Winner
    • 25 lacs to 3rd Prize Winner
  • ₹ 1.50 cr
    • 25 lacs each to 1 startup of every problem statement
  • ₹ 1.80 cr
    • 10 lacs each to 3 startups of every problem statement
  • ₹ 1.80 cr
    • 5 lacs each to 6 startups of every problem statement.

For more information, visit DSCI.