#100DesiDeepTechs: Startup Policy Forum’s Bold Move to Transform India’s Deep-Tech Ecosystem

Startup Policy Forum Launches #100DesiDeepTechs to Power India's Deep-Tech Revolution

In a major step toward support India's innovation, the Startup Policy Forum (SPF) has announced the launch of #100DesiDeepTechs, a landmark initiative to identify and support 100 leading deep-tech startups across the country.

Developed in collaboration with Startup India (DPIIT), MEITY Startup Hub, and IIT Madras, this multi-stakeholder initiative aims to strengthen policy dialogue and fast-track the growth of India’s deep-tech ecosystem.

Startups from across India can now apply to join this exclusive cohort. The selected startups will engage in closed-door policy dialogues with key stakeholders—policymakers, investors, industry leaders, regulators, and research institutions. The output from these discussions will feed into a comprehensive policy whitepaper, addressing sector-specific challenges and regulatory needs in deep tech.

#100DesiDeepTechs focus sectors semiconductors, Defence and Aerospace, Quantum Technology, Green Hydrogen, SpaceTech, Drones and UAVs, Electric Vehicles (EVs), Biotechnology, Robotics, Advanced Manufacturing, Communications Technology.

A Mentor Board comprising veteran founders, policymakers, investors, and domain experts will provide strategic guidance to the cohort, facilitating access to funding, partnerships, and research networks.

Shweta Rajpal Kohli, President & CEO of SPF, said:

“Our vision is to identify, mentor, and elevate India’s most promising deep-tech startups and support them with enabling policy frameworks. We are committed to supporting government initiatives like the ₹1 lakh crore RDI Scheme and the Deep-Tech Fund of Funds to scale R&D in critical sectors.”

The findings and regulatory recommendations from the cohort will be released at “Deeptech Baithak”, a flagship forum bringing together India’s deep-tech community. The event will also see the launch of the SPF Centre for Deep-tech Policy Research, a hub for sustained policy innovation and startup engagement.

Sanjiv Singh, Joint Secretary at DPIIT, noted:

“#100DesiDeepTechs is a timely and targeted initiative that will accelerate efforts by fostering policy clarity, nurturing breakthrough ideas, and building a strong pipeline of world-class startups.”

Panneerselvam Madanagopal, CEO of MeitY Startup Hub, added:

“Deep-tech is the next frontier of India’s startup journey. This program will help identify startups at the intersection of science and scalable innovation, serving the nation’s strategic interests.”

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Prof. Thillai Rajan from IIT Madras remarked:

“We are excited to collaborate on this national initiative that gives deep-tech startups a direct seat at the policy table. It aligns closely with our vision to advance high-impact research and industry partnerships.”

#100DesiDeepTechs Partners and Execution

The initiative will be executed with support from key partners:

• IIT Madras: Startup evaluation and selection

• Ikigai Law: Policy whitepaper drafting

• Kaio: Program management and coordination
  SPF will also collaborate with deep-tech investors and domain experts to ensure robust industry alignment.