CONTEXT

• Centre for Development of Telematics (C-DOT) is an autonomous R&D institution under Department of Telecommunications (DoT), Government of India.
• C-DOT aims to foster innovation and entrepreneurship in the Telecom & ICT sector.
• Launched the ‘Samarth’ Incubation Program to support startups in deep-tech areas.

CONCEPT

• Samarth Program:
  • A cutting-edge incubation initiative for startups in Telecom and ICT, including 5G/6G, AI, IoT, Quantum tech, and cybersecurity.
  • Designed to nurture sustainable, scalable tech businesses through structured mentorship, funding, and infrastructure support.
  • Two cohorts per year, with 18 startups each, supporting up to 36 startups annually.
• Support Provided:
  • Grant up to ₹5 lakh per startup.
  • Fully furnished office space at C-DOT campuses in Delhi & Bengaluru for 6 months.
  • Access to advanced lab facilities.
  • Mentorship from C-DOT experts and external professionals.
  • Acceleration sessions to guide product development and market readiness.
  • Startups may be eligible for further support under C-DOT Collaborative Research Program (CCRP).
• Implementation Partners:
  • Software Technology Parks of India (STPI).
  • TiE (The Indus Entrepreneurs) – Delhi NCR Chapter.
• Delivery Format:
  • Hybrid model combining physical and virtual engagement.
  • Includes expert-led workshops, industry interaction, and investor networking.
• Selection Process:
  • Done by a distinguished panel from academia, industry, STPI, and C-DOT.
  • Criteria: Innovation, feasibility, relevance, team strength, and execution capability.

CURRENT  

• Cohort-1 of 18 startups selected via competitive evaluation.
• Startups awarded first tranche of grant during launch event in New Delhi.
• Notable presence: CEO of C-DOT, DG of STPI, President of TiE, mentors & venture capitalists.
• MoU signed between C-DOT & STPI to promote joint initiatives, mentorship & training.
• One startup, Vital Carbon Pvt Ltd, received a ₹1 lakh cheque as part of the grant.
• Full list of startups published on cdot.in and cdot.sayuj.net.