Indo-German InnoXchange Programme
‘InnoXchange’ is a bilateral programme focused on cooperation in innovation, technology transfer, and entrepreneurship between DWIH New Delhi, DAAD, and DST. The programme aims to facilitate knowledge sharing across key areas such as joint technology development, funding opportunities, management of incubators and accelerators, international market access, and intellectual property strategies. It is designed to enable exchange between incubator managers and deep-tech startup founders, supporting collaboration and mutual learning.
In early 2026, the German Academic Exchange Service (DAAD) with its unit, German Centre for Research and Innovation (DWIH) New Delhi, and the Department of Science & Technology (DST), Ministry of Science and Technology, Government of India, initiated the first ever bilateral programme between India and Germany in the field of deep-tech entrepreneurship.
Programme Vision
The overall goal of the programme is to deepen bilateral relations, promote knowledge exchange, and identify collaborative prospects between deep-tech startup ecosystems from both countries. Its core objective is to create a platform that harnesses shared expertise and resources to advance scientific innovation and strengthen incubation ecosystems in the targeted sector. The initiative aligns with the mutual goal of boosting technological advancement and promoting economic growth through innovation in both countries. The programme is expected to run for a period of three to five years.
Who can benefit
The programme is for deep-tech startups, incubators, and technology transfer offices at higher education institutions (public and private), research institutions, and public-private partnerships in both countries.
Key elements of the programme
- Bilateral exchange and exposure visits
- Support for women entrepreneurs
- Joint workshops
- Joint pilot programmes
The programme will facilitate knowledge-sharing, among others, on deep-tech commercialization, joint technology development, funding programmes, management of incubators and accelerators, international market access, and IP strategies.
Policy Framework
Under the Indo-German bilateral S&T Agreement, a Joint Declaration of Intent (JDI) for Cooperation in Innovation, Technology Transfer and Entrepreneurship was signed on 25th October 2024 between the Department of Science & Technology (DST) of the Government of the Republic of India and the Deutscher Akademischer Austauschdienst e.V. (DAAD) (German Academic Exchange Service). The JDI was exchanged during the 7th Indo-German Inter-Governmental (IGC) meeting, held in New Delhi. The cooperation was also highlighted in the leader’s statement.
The programme commenced early 2026, with the first exchange planned in June 2026 from India to Germany.
Call for Applications
The first activity of the programme is a Delegation of incubator heads and managers as well as deep-tech start-up founders from India to Germany in June 2026.
Visit the ‘Call for Applications‘ page to find our more and apply to be a part of this programme.
Application deadline is 10 April 2026.
Partners
