The Indian National Space Promotion and Authorization Centre (IN-SPACe) has announced a seed fund scheme for start-ups operating in the areas of Urban Development and Disaster Management by using space technology.
The scheme, launched in collaboration with the National Remote Sensing Centre (NRSC), ISRO, will provide opportunities for NGEs that leverage space technology for societal benefits to graduate to the next level. The last date of application for the Seed Fund Scheme is December 20.
As part of the scheme, selected start-ups will receive seed funding for transforming an original idea into a prototype using space technology, ISRO facility support, including Earth Observation (EO) data for validation of the concept, mentorship support, and access to data algorithms as transfer of technology from the Department of Space.
“The Seed Fund Scheme is a part of IN-SPACe’s efforts to provide a special thrust to enhance the space activity capabilities of the nation with the active participation of the start-ups. This scheme is designed to support Indian space start-ups that aim to develop innovative space products and services, thereby improving the quality of life for people and communities in India and around the world,” Dr. Pawan Goenka, chairman, IN-SPACe said
The IN-SPACe Seed Fund Scheme has the provision of providing financial assistance of up to ₹1 crore in addition to mentorship support, training and networking opportunities.
For urban development, opportunities abound for start-ups working in the domains of urban planning, monitoring and infrastructure management, telecommunication, navigation, broadband connectivity, water resources management, energy efficiency, climate and weather monitoring, disaster risk reduction, public health, healthcare, and more.
Similarly, disaster management offers opportunities for start-ups specializing in the domains of Geographical Information System (GIS), early warning and monitoring systems, insurance and risk assessment, communication and navigation systems, climate change monitoring, search and rescue operations, space-borne sensors, and instruments, among others.
