Agriculture & Food Processing
Technology for resilient agriculture, food systems and processing.
Northern Region S&T Cluster
A flagship initiative of PI-RAHI
SPARKS 2.0
Strategic Program for Accelerating
Research & Knowledge Startups
Enabling deep-tech startups to translate innovation into real-world impact through acceleration, mentorship and strategic support.
For innovators at the ideation to proof-of-concept stage
Ideas into
Impact
Impact
Agritech
Healthcare
Circularity
Clean Energy
Indigenous Tech
Grant SupportUp to ₹10 Lakhs
Expert NetworkMentorship & Guidance
Application Deadline23 November 2026
About the programme
Turning promising ideas into impactful solutions.
SPARKS 2.0 is designed to support innovation-led startups with the resources, expert guidance and ecosystem connections needed to advance their solutions. The programme focuses on deep-tech innovations across the Northern Region S&T Cluster’s thematic areas, including opportunities that cut across multiple domains.
Selected startups can access acceleration support, mentorship, funding and investor connections, and intellectual property and commercialisation guidance.
Where you can innovate
Six pathways to innovation
Solutions may address one thematic area or connect expertise across domains.
Sustainable Mobility & Green Energy
Cleaner energy, efficient mobility and sustainable technologies.
Pharma, Medical Devices & Healthcare
Innovations that advance healthcare delivery and medical technology.
Waste Management & Wealth from Waste
Resource recovery, circular solutions and waste valorisation.
Indigenous Technology Development & Optimization
Home-grown technology, engineering and process optimisation.
Inter-Thematic Area
Cross-sector ideas combining two or more thematic domains.
Support to move forward
More than a grant
Practical support to help startups strengthen their technology and prepare for the next stage of growth.
Grant Support
Grant support of up to ₹10 lakhs, subject to programme terms and selection.
Expert Mentorship
Guidance from domain experts to refine solutions and strengthen business readiness.
Funding & Investor Connect
Access to funding pathways and connections across the innovation ecosystem.
IP & Commercialisation
Support and guidance around intellectual property and routes to market.
Acceleration Support
Strategic support to help startups validate, develop and scale their innovations.
Who can apply?
Is SPARKS 2.0 right for your startup?
We welcome ambitious innovators building solutions with potential for meaningful real-world impact.
Last date to submit23rd November 2026
01
Company registration
The entity should be registered as a Private Limited Company or be willing to register within the next three months.
02
Regional relevance
Preference will be given to entities registered in Himachal Pradesh, Jammu & Kashmir, Chandigarh, Haryana or Punjab, or those exploring market access in these regions.
03
Technology readiness
The product or service should be at least at the Minimum Viable Product (MVP) stage, corresponding to TRL 4.
04
Thematic alignment
The proposed innovation should align with one or more of the five thematic areas or an inter-thematic opportunity.
From application to acceleration
Your journey with SPARKS 2.0
Applications will be reviewed through a structured selection process.
01
Apply Online
Submit your startup and innovation details through the application process.
02
Initial Screening
Applications are reviewed against programme focus and eligibility criteria.
03
Evaluation & Pitch
Shortlisted applicants may be invited to present their proposal to the evaluation panel.
04
Selection & Support
Selected startups receive support in accordance with programme guidelines.
Your innovation can make a difference
Ready to take the next step?
Explore SPARKS 2.0 and prepare your application before the deadline.
Apply Now
Application deadline: 23 November 2026