Centre for Development of Telematics Launches ‘Samarth’ Incubation Program to Support Telecom and ICT Startups

C-DoT, an autonomous research center under the Department of Telecommunication (DoT), Government of India, has launched the “Samarth” incubation program. This initiative supports startups in Telecom and ICT sectors, focusing on technologies like Telecom Software, Cybersecurity, 5G/6G, AI, IoT, and Quantum Technologies. Partnering with Software Technology Parks of India (STPI), the program provides mentorship, resources, and a hybrid structure. It will have two cohorts, each lasting six months with up to 18 startups per group.

Selected startups will receive grants of up to 5 lakh INR, office space, and access to C-DoT’s labs. They will also get mentorship from industry experts and may collaborate in the future with C-DoT. The program is open to DPIIT-recognized startups, with applications processed via a screening and pitching process.

Centre for Development of Telematics Launches ‘Samarth’ Incubation Program to Support Telecom and ICT Startups

The Centre for Development of Telematics (C-DoT), an autonomous research center under the Department of Telecommunications (DoT) in the Government of India, has launched a new initiative called “Samarth.” This incubation program is designed to support and guide startups in the Telecom and ICT sectors, with the goal of fostering innovation and advancing technology in India. Through this program, C-DoT aims to nurture startups working on emerging and advanced technologies such as Telecom Software, Cybersecurity, 5G/6G, Artificial Intelligence (AI), Internet of Things (IoT), and Quantum Technologies.

The “Samarth” program is intended to provide startups with the resources and mentorship needed to transform their ideas into successful businesses. By offering assistance in developing sustainable business models and helping startups move from the ideation stage to commercialization, the program ensures that these startups are well-prepared to succeed in the competitive tech landscape.

To implement this initiative effectively, C-DoT has partnered with Software Technology Parks of India (STPI), an organization under the Ministry of Electronics and Information Technology (MeitY). STPI has vast experience supporting innovation and promoting the growth of the IT/ITES (Information Technology/Information Technology Enabled Services) industry in India. This partnership will ensure that the startups in the “Samarth” program have access to the right environment and support to grow and succeed.

The “Samarth” program will be organized in two cohorts, each lasting six months, with each cohort accommodating up to 18 startups. The program will be hybrid, offering both physical and virtual support to ensure that startups can access the necessary infrastructure, mentorship, and networking opportunities, no matter their location. These startups will also have access to a network of investors and industry leaders who can help guide them and connect them with the resources they need for growth.

For the selected startups, the program offers several valuable resources, including a grant of up to 5 lakh INR, office space at C-DoT’s campus for six months, access to C-DoT’s advanced laboratories, and the opportunity to receive guidance from technical experts in the field. Additionally, successful startups may also have opportunities to collaborate with C-DoT through its Collaborative Research Program, opening doors for further growth and development.

Startups wishing to apply for the “Samarth” program must be recognized by the Department for Promotion of Industry and Internal Trade (DPIIT). The application process involves submitting a proposal, which will be screened before the selected startups are invited to pitch their ideas to a panel of industry experts. This panel will evaluate the startups and select the most promising ones for the program.

The program is designed to provide startups with a strong foundation in technology and business, ensuring that they have the tools necessary to scale and succeed in the market. It also fosters a robust support network, bringing together various stakeholders from the tech and telecom industries to collaborate with these startups.

Startups looking to apply or seeking more details about the program can visit C-DoT’s official website or the dedicated portal for “Samarth.” This program promises to be an excellent opportunity for innovative startups to gain the resources and mentorship they need to take their ideas to the next level, contribute to the growth of the telecom and ICT sectors in India, and make a lasting impact on the technology landscape.