The ICONN NINJA India Programme, Cohort 3, has officially opened applications, offering Indian startups the opportunity to collaborate with Japanese global corporates.
Organized by the CII Centre of Excellence for Innovation, Entrepreneurship & Startups (CIES) in partnership with the Japan International Cooperation Agency (JICA) and Deloitte Tohmatsu Venture Support (DTVS), the programme is designed to power scalable innovation through startup–corporate partnerships.
The last date to apply for Cohort 3 of the ICONN NINJA India Programme is 20th September 2025.
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ICONN NINJA India Programme: Focus on Startup–Corporate Synergy
The ICONN NINJA India Programme connects selected startups with industry leaders, offering access to mentorship, strategic partnerships, market entry opportunities, pilot projects, and funding visibility.
The programme focuses on creating impact in mobility, sustainability, agriculture, healthcare, AI, and emerging digital technologies.
Suzuki R&D Center India: Versatile Micro Electric Mobility (VMeM) Platform
- As part of the ICONN NINJA India Programme, Suzuki R&D Center India is inviting startups to collaborate on its Versatile Micro Electric Mobility (VMeM) platform.
- This compact, zero-emission, all-terrain electric vehicle is designed for short-distance, high-efficiency operations with a payload capacity of up to 400 kg and a range of 50 km.
- Startups are encouraged to develop applications in disaster management logistics, surveillance and inspection, precision farming, and airport cargo movement.
Dentsu India: AI and Digital Experiences for the Future
- Dentsu India is seeking startup collaborations that redefine marketing, media, and digital experiences.
- Areas of focus include Interlingual Generative AI for multilingual content, regenerative AI to reduce environmental impact, and AI-driven travel and automotive experience platforms such as DriveLog.
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Sasakawa Peace Foundation: Revitalizing Rural Asia
- The Sasakawa Peace Foundation (SPF) is inviting startups to join its Asia Inclusive and Innovative Leadership Program under the ICONN NINJA India Programme.
- The initiative seeks scalable solutions for rural revitalization, addressing challenges in livelihoods, sustainable infrastructure, healthcare, education, financial innovation, and quality-of-life improvements through technology.
ICONN NINJA India Programme Cohort 3: Details and Eligibility
Cohort 3 of the ICONN NINJA India Programme will run for three months with a hybrid format combining virtual and in-person engagements.
The programme is open to Indian startups with proof of concept or early market validation. Participation is free of charge, and selected startups will gain mentorship, pilot opportunities, and visibility to both Japanese and Indian investors and corporates.
