The UDAAN Drone Acceleration Program Cohort 3, launched by SIIC IIT Kanpur in collaboration with Drone CoE and Drone Federation of India, empowers high-potential UAV/UAS/drone startups to build, test, and scale rapidly.

Program Purpose and Impact

This flagship initiative supports India’s booming drone ecosystem by providing access to world-class infrastructure and expertise. It selects startups from early MVP stage to growth phase, fostering innovation in defense, agriculture, healthcare, and air mobility sectors. Annually, it incubates 20 startups across two cohorts, with top performers securing fellowships and investor connections.

Key Benefits

• Advanced UAV Testing Facilities: Utilize Helicopter/VTOL Lab, Flight Lab, and National Wind Tunnel at Drone CoE.

• Mentorship from IIT Experts: Guidance from faculty on product development, regulatory approvals, and certifications.

• Funding and Fellowship: Top 6 startups per cohort receive ₹3 Lakh per annum fellowship; case-by-case SIIC funding possible.

• Industry & Investor Networks: Demo Day, pitch deck support, and connections to government schemes like iDEX, TDF, TIDE.

• Physical Incubation Space: Post-program space at SIIC IIT Kanpur campus for scaling.

Success Metrics

Previous cohorts accelerated startups via R&D access and funding guidance, positioning them for market entry amid India’s drone market growth projected at 20% CAGR.