T-Hub, an innovation ecosystem enabler, has significantly impacted the growth and development of startups in India’s aerospace and defence sectors. Through its various programmes and initiatives, T-Hub has provided crucial support and resources to nurture promising startups and facilitate their journey towards success.
In an exclusive interaction with Financial Express Online, Mahankali Srinivas Rao (MSR), CEO, T-Hub said “One of T-Hub’s flagship programmes, the Innovation for Defence Excellence Program (IDEX), executed in collaboration with the Defence Innovation Organization (DIO) under the Ministry of Defence, has incubated around 40 startups. These startups receive invaluable guidance and mentorship, enabling them to innovate and develop solutions catering to defence needs.”
Also, “In addition to the defence sector, T-Hub has recently launched a dedicated space tech program in partnership with Amazon Web Services (AWS) and the Indian Space Research Organisation (ISRO). This initiative aims to capitalize on the rapidly growing space industry, providing support to startups like Skyroot Aerospace and Dhruva Space, both of which have flourished under T-Hub’s guidance.”
Skyroot Aerospace, for instance, holds the distinction of being the first Indian private entity to launch rockets into space.
Responding to a query related to T-Hub’s focus on the space sector, MSR says “T-Hub’s space tech programme focuses on building a robust ecosystem by fostering collaborations between startups, large entities like ISRO, and corporate partners like Amazon. Through structured programmes, mentorship, and access to resources such as T-works, India’s largest prototyping center, T-Hub empowers startups to scale their businesses and tap into opportunities in the global space market.”
Make In India / Atmanirbhar
According to him, the government’s emphasis on boosting indigenous defence production, notably through initiatives like Make-In India, aligns well with T-Hub’s objectives. “T-Hub actively supports startups in the defence sector through initiatives like IDEX and events like the Defence Space Innovation Summit. These platforms provide startups with opportunities to showcase their innovations, connect with potential collaborators, and gain visibility among policymakers, corporates, and investors,” he explains.
How does T-Hub help startups in getting funding? What challenges do they face?
Despite the challenges faced by startups in accessing funding, T-Hub collaborates closely with investors to identify and nurture promising opportunities. According to him, historically, investors have been hesitant due to perceived long decision-making cycles and working capital requirements. However, with structured mechanisms and increasing focus on indigenization, more investors are showing interest in the aerospace and defence sectors. “T-Hub facilitates this process by connecting startups with investors and announcing initiatives like the Defence related Fund to further support startups in securing funding.”
Artificial Intelligence & Disruptive Technologies
He says that the emergence of disruptive technologies like artificial intelligence (AI) and blockchain presents both opportunities and challenges for startups in aerospace and defence. Recognizing this, “T-Hub launched an AI and ML Center of Excellence to support startups leveraging these technologies. Startups within this ecosystem, including those working on dual-use technologies for civilian and defence applications, receive support in areas like cybersecurity, where innovation is crucial in addressing modern threats,” MSR says.
Identifying Startups
In identifying startups for its programmes, T-Hub employs a rigorous vetting process involving expert panels and academic institutions. By focusing on startups with innovative solutions and a clear focus, T-Hub ensures that its programmes are impactful and contribute to the growth of the ecosystem.
According to MSR, “T-Hub’s involvement in launching programmes for the aerospace and defence sectors has been instrumental in fostering innovation, supporting startups, and driving the growth of indigenous capabilities. Through strategic collaborations, mentorship, and access to resources, T-Hub continues to play a pivotal role in shaping India’s aerospace and defence startup ecosystem.”