C3iHub (IHUB NTIHAC FOUNDATION) IIT Kanpur, in collaboration with its Technology Business Incubator (TBI), FIRST (FOUNDATION FOR INNOVATION & RESEARCH IN SCIENCE & TECHNOLOGY) at IIT Kanpur, proudly announces the launch of applications for its highly anticipated Cybersecurity Startup Incubation Program – Cohort VII.
This program offers a significant funding opportunity of ₹30 Lakhs over two years, comprising a ₹20 Lakh grant and a ₹10 Lakh fellowship (equity-based), to nurture early-stage startups developing breakthrough solutions in cybersecurity and allied deep-tech domains.
C3iHub, a Section 8 non-profit organization under the National Mission on Interdisciplinary Cyber-Physical Systems (NM-ICPS) led by the Department of Science and Technology (DST), Government of India, is dedicated to fostering groundbreaking research and development in cybersecurity. Following its achievements during the TIH tenure, C3iHub has been upgraded to a Technology Translation Research Park (TTRP) by DST in 2025, further solidifying its commitment to innovation.Till now C3iHub has actively supported 49 startups in different fields of cybersecurity.
The program aims to identify and support startups focused on trending and emerging areas of cybersecurity, including:
- Mobile Security and Mobile Forensics
- Privacy Enhancing Technologies
- Automotive Security
- Supply Chain Security
- Threat Intelligence
- Security of AI-ML
- LLM security
Startups developing products with a key emphasis on strategic and national security are highly encouraged to apply.
The C3iHub Startup Ecosystem: A Catalyst for Cybersecurity Innovation
The C3iHub Incubation Program is a cornerstone of a vibrant and robust startup ecosystem designed to accelerate the growth of cybersecurity ventures. Selected startups gain unparalleled access to:
- IIT Kanpur’s World-Class Ecosystem: Leverage the extensive resources, research facilities, and intellectual capital of one of India’s premier academic institutions.
- Expert Mentorship: Receive guidance from distinguished faculty, seasoned industry leaders, and defence experts, providing invaluable insights and strategic direction.
- Go-to-Market and Product Piloting Support: Benefit from hands-on assistance in navigating market entry and piloting innovative products.
- Strategic Partnerships and Networking: Connect with relevant industry stakeholders, fostering collaborations and opening doors to new opportunities.
- Co-working Space: Utilize dedicated co-working facilities through SIIC IIT Kanpur, promoting a collaborative and innovative environment.
“Our mission at C3iHub is to cultivate a thriving ecosystem where cybersecurity innovation can flourish,” said Dr. Tanima Hajra, COO and Interim CEO. “Cohort VII represents our continued commitment to identifying and empowering the next generation of cybersecurity leaders. With comprehensive funding, mentorship, and access to the rich resources of IIT Kanpur and SIIC, we are confident that these startups will develop solutions critical for national cyber resilience.”
Speaking on the occasion, Prof. Manindra Agrawal, Director, IIT Kanpur said, “At IIT Kanpur, we remain committed to advancing India’s cybersecurity landscape through cutting-edge research, deep-tech innovation, and impactful entrepreneurship. C3iHub’s seventh startup cohort reflects this vision by nurturing ventures working at the forefront of cybersecurity. As a Technology Translational Research Park, we are proud to see it catalyze solutions that address emerging national and global challenges, while also contributing to India’s self-reliance in critical technologies.”
Eligibility Criteria:
- Startups or innovators registered in India as a private limited company.
- At least one full-time committed founder.
- Preferably less than 3 years old at the time of application.
Selection Mechanism:
Applicants will undergo a rigorous evaluation process, including a review of Google Form inputs by an Evaluation Committee, followed by pitch presentations for shortlisted startups. Final selection will be based on the novelty and relevance of the solution, market and growth potential, alignment with emerging cybersecurity focus areas, founding team’s capability and commitment, and product stage and market readiness.
Application Submission:
Interested startups can apply through the following link:
For any queries related to the application, please contact startup@c3ihub.iitk.ac.in
C3iHub, IIT Kanpur 
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