Are India’s AI Founders ready to rise to the next level? Welcome to BuildAI 3.0.
BuildAI is a national-level platform created to identify, incubate and nurture India’s most promising AI ventures and founders. BuildAI is an initiative of by IndiaAI, Ministry of Electronics and Information Technology (MeitY) and ITEL Foundation.
After 500+ applications in the first two editions, and identifying over 10 highly-promising AI startups from across the country, BuildAI is all set to welcome applications for the third cohort.
Welcome to
BUILDAI3.0
To assess the technical readiness and real-world applicability of AI solutions presented by startups
To identify high-impact, highly innovative AI ventures and assess readiness for incubation
- AI Startups (0–3 years).
- Student startups with DPIIT Certification are welcome to apply
Winners and high-potential startups win a chance to get incubated by IndiaAI and MeitY, and co‑incubation by ITEL Foundation and IIT Guwahati Technology Incubation Centre*.
- 1st Prize₹2,00,000
- 2nd Prize₹1,00,000
- 3rd Prize₹1,00,000
- 4th Prize₹50,000
- 5th Prize₹50,000
About the Incubation Program
The incubation program, jointly administered by ITEL Foundation and the IndiaAI Mission, will offer a comprehensive and structured nurturing process. This will include:
Incubated startups will also be eligible to apply for a grant of up to ₹20,00,000.
IIT Guwahati, Assam*
20, 21 November 2026
- Travel tickets will reimbursed at actuals, not exceeding ₹10,000 per startup
- Incubation opportunities are based on the decision of the Incubation Committee
- Subject to terms and conditions
APPLICATIONS OPEN
Submit your application using ITEL's AI-based Interactive Screening Application.
You will be required to answer some questions and attach your pitch deck.
Last date to apply – 15 October 2026