About this programme
M2M (Mind To Market) is an open innovation challenge programme designed to convert translational ideas and concepts into products or services addressing sector-specific industrial problem statements. The programme is open to innovators and students across the country, with particular focus on defence sector challenges. Successful proposals receive financial assistance up to ₹2.5 lakhs combined with mentorship support to pursue their proposed solutions through the development pipeline. It is run by Gujarat Student Startup and Innovation Hub (i-Hub).
The support is delivered through the programme’s own structure, and the form it takes is set by the issuing authority. The amount and form of support that actually apply to you depend on the programme’s rules and how your application is assessed — they are not fixed for every applicant.
It is aimed at businesses in defence · energy · itc · toy innovation · deep tech · herbal & ayurveda. Like most government programmes, it has its own eligibility conditions, documentation and application window, and these terms are revised from time to time. Because of that, it is worth confirming the current eligibility, amount and deadline on the official programme page before you invest time in applying.
How it works
The programme operates as an open innovation challenge where participants submit proposals addressing published sector-specific industrial problem statements. Selected proposals receive combined financial assistance and mentorship. The mechanism involves converting translational ideas into validated products or services. Participants are matched with mentors and provided support through the development journey based on their proposal and sector track.
Who can apply
Innovators and students up to age 35, including school students (Class 12 and below), diploma/vocational/undergraduate/postgraduate/doctoral students, alumni, or dropouts. Must be based in Gujarat or addressing specified challenge tracks. Open to those working on sector-specific problem statements (defence, energy, ITC, toy innovation, deep tech, herbal/Ayurveda).
How to apply
- Register on i-Hub Gujarat platform at ihubgujarat.in
- Select the relevant challenge track (Defence, Energy, ITC, Toy Innovation, Deep Tech, or Herbal & Ayurveda)
- Submit proposal addressing the published problem statement
- Participate in proposal evaluation by selection committee
- Selected proposals receive award notification
- Engage with assigned mentors and commence implementation
Documents you’ll typically need
- Business registration / incorporation certificate
- PAN (and GST registration, where applicable)
- Identity and address proof for the applicant / directors
- A short description of your business or project
The exact checklist depends on the programme and your specifics.
Frequently asked
Who is eligible for the M2M programme?
The programme is open to innovators and students up to age 35, including school students (Class 12), diploma/vocational students, undergraduates, postgraduates, doctoral students, alumni, and dropouts. Participants must be based in Gujarat.
What types of challenges does the programme focus on?
The programme operates multiple challenge tracks addressing Defence, Energy, ITC (Information Technology and Communications), Toy Innovation, Deep Tech, and Herbal & Ayurveda sectors.
How much funding is available?
Successful proposals receive financial assistance up to ₹2.5 lakhs (₹250,000) combined with mentorship support.
Reviewed July 2026. Government programmes change — confirm current eligibility, amounts and deadlines on the official programme page before you apply. CapEasy is a private consultancy and is not affiliated with any government authority.