On December 29, 2025, the Foundation for Innovation and Technology Transfer (FITT), which is the technology transfer and incubation arm of the Indian Institute of Technology (IIT) Delhi, launched a new cohort as part of the Innovation Growth & Nurturing Initiative for Technology Entrepreneurs (IGNITE) program, in collaboration with IDFC First Bank.
The main highlights of this new cohort include:
The IGNITE program is part of IDFC First Bank’s Corporate Social Responsibility (CSR) initiatives. Its primary aim is to bridge the gap between deep-tech research and market access, providing essential funding, mentorship, and resources to help startups scale their solutions for a global impact.
This initiative is designed to support innovation-led startups in India, particularly those in the early to growth stages. With structured mentorship, funding support, and access to a robust ecosystem, the program facilitates the transition from proof-of-concept to market-ready commercialization.
Selected startups will focus on critical areas such as:
Each selected startup in the IGNITE program will receive:
This comprehensive support structure is designed to accelerate the growth of innovative startups, ensuring they are well-equipped to make a significant impact in their respective fields.
Q1. What is the IGNITE program?
Answer: The IGNITE program is an initiative by FITT, IIT Delhi, and IDFC First Bank, aimed at supporting early-stage startups through funding, mentorship, and resources in key sectors.
Q2. How much funding do startups receive under the IGNITE program?
Answer: Each selected startup can receive up to Rs.30 lakhs in non-dilutive funding to help scale their innovative solutions.
Q3. What areas does the IGNITE program focus on?
Answer: The program focuses on climate tech, clean energy, healthcare, Agri-tech, mobility, education, and AI for social good.
Q4. Who provides mentorship in the IGNITE program?
Answer: Mentorship is provided by IIT faculty, industry experts, and CSR leaders from IDFC First Bank, ensuring comprehensive support for startups.
Q5. What opportunities do startups get besides funding?
Answer: Startups have access to workshops, investor-connect sessions, demo days, and pitching opportunities to enhance their growth potential.
Question 1: What is the primary objective of the IGNITE program?
A) To provide loans to startups
B) To support innovation-led startups with funding and mentorship
C) To create technology transfer policies
D) To promote traditional businesses
Correct Answer: B
Question 2: Which organization partnered with IIT Delhi to launch the new cohort?
A) SBI
B) HDFC Bank
C) IDFC First Bank
D) Axis Bank
Correct Answer: C
Question 3: What is the maximum funding amount available for startups in the IGNITE program?
A) Rs.10 lakhs
B) Rs.20 lakhs
C) Rs.30 lakhs
D) Rs.50 lakhs
Correct Answer: C
Question 4: Which of the following is NOT a focus area of the IGNITE program?
A) Climate tech
B) Healthcare
C) Tourism
D) AI for social good
Correct Answer: C
Question 5: In which year was the new cohort of the IGNITE program launched?
A) 2024
B) 2025
C) 2023
D) 2026
Correct Answer: B
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