C-DOT Launches “Samarth” Incubation Program to Support Startups in Telecom and IT

Current Context: The Centre for Development of Telematics (C-DOT), an autonomous R&D arm of India’s Department of Telecommunications (DoT), launched its "Samarth" incubation program on March 19, 2025, in New Delhi.

The initiative aims to bolster innovation in telecommunications and information technology by supporting startups and innovators.
Objective: To foster advancements in telecom and IT by nurturing startups working on next-generation technologies.
Focus Areas: Telecom software applications, cybersecurity, 5G/6G technologies, artificial intelligence (AI), Internet of Things (IoT), and quantum technologies.
Support Offered: Up to ₹5 lakh in grants per startup, six months of furnished office space at C-DOT’s campus, access to lab facilities, mentorship from industry experts, and potential future collaboration under C-DOT’s research programs.
Structure: The program will support up to 18 startups per cohort, with a total of 36 startups across two six-month cohorts, delivered in a hybrid mode.
Partnership: C-DOT has teamed up with Software Technology Parks of India (STPI), under the Ministry of Electronics and IT, to implement the program, leveraging STPI’s incubation expertise.
Eligibility: Open to startups recognized by the Department for Promotion of Industry and Internal Trade (DPIIT), with a rigorous selection process involving screening and pitches to an expert panel.