Indo-German InnoXchange Programme
‘InnoXchange’ is a bilateral programme of DWIH New Delhi, DAAD, and DST. On behalf of the DST, SINE – IIT Bombay is the implementation partner of the programme. It focuses on cooperation in innovation, technology transfer, and entrepreneurship between India and Germany. It is designed to enable exchange between incubator managers and deep-tech start-up founders, supporting collaboration and mutual learning. 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.
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.
Target group
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.
Following elements are part of the programme:
- Bilateral exchange and exposure visits
- Support for women entrepreneurs
- Joint workshops
- Joint pilot programmes
The programme commenced in early 2026, with the first delegation visit in June 2026 from India to Germany. A delegation of stakeholders from the entrepreneurial ecosystems of India and the Germany, including startup founders, incubator heads and officials from DAAD – DWIH New Delhi and DST came together through workshops, curated visits, meetings, and networking events to discuss the internationalization of innovation and entrepreneurship and explore opportunities for cooperation.
Policy Framework
The programme is a result of a Joint Declaration of Intent (JDI) for Cooperation in Innovation, Technology Transfer and Entrepreneurship under the Indo-German bilateral S&T Agreement 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.
