IndiaASTRA 1.0 (Advanced Solutions in Technology for Resilience & Autonomy)
ASTRA 1.0 is a three-month equity-free defence technology accelerator program designed to facilitate the transition of innovative prototypes into functional defence solutions. Run by T-Works (a Telangana government prototyping center) and JNTUH TBI (JNTU Hyderabad Technology Business Incubator), the program supports Indian hardware startups with developed PoC or early-revenue stage products specifically for the Indian defence sector. Focus areas include energy and power systems, autonomous systems, sensors and communication, and advanced hardware for defence applications. The program provides no direct cash grants but offers access to T-Works prototyping and testing infrastructure, expert mentorship, sandbox environments, and networking with investors and corporates, along with guidance on securing government funding from schemes like iDEX, TDF, and Make-1/Make-2.
Who can apply
Open to Indian hardware startups with a developed Proof of Concept (PoC) or at the early-revenue stage, specifically developing solutions for the Indian defence sector in areas such as energy/power systems, autonomous systems, sensors/communication, and advanced defence hardware.Perks & benefits
- Access to T-Works prototyping infrastructure (3D Printing, Electronics, PCB fabrication, Laser/Wood/Metal shops, Advanced Rapid Prototyping labs)
- Expert mentorship from industry specialists
- Sandbox environments for testing and validation
- Networking with investors and corporate partners
- Guidance on securing government funding (iDEX, TDF, Make-1/Make-2)
- Access to T-Works testing facilities and equipment
- Demo day and investor showcase opportunity
Sources
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