Since 2019, the Marathwada Accelerator for Growth and Incubation Council (MAGIC) has been hosting one of its flagship events, the Annual Innovation Challenge, focusing on various national themes. MAGIC has established a nationwide presence by empowering innovators and startups through this initiative.

Building on the success of previous editions such as Innovate for India Challenge 2022 and Innovate for LiFE Challenge 2023, which saw participation from across the country, we are proud to announce the Defence Innovation Challenge for Excellence (DICE) 2024, powered by 3D Engineering Automation LLP. This year’s challenge focuses on solving problems faced by our Armed Forces. The cumulative prize pool for this year is ₹6.5 Lacs, and winners will receive seed funding and incubation support through MAGIC’s vast ecosystem.

Why You Should Participate:

• Contribute to National Security: Your innovative solutions could play a vital role in solving challenges faced by our Armed Forces, from enhancing defence capabilities to improving operational efficiency on the battlefield.
• Recognition and Prestige: Showcase your innovation on a national stage, gain recognition from leading institutions like the Office of the Principal Scientific Advisor to the Government of India, Startup India, and iDEX, and become part of India’s elite defence innovation ecosystem.
• Access to Seed Funding and Prizes: Winners will receive a share of the ₹6,50,000 prize pool, along with seed funding support to help bring your innovation to life and scale it for real-world applications.
• Expert Mentorship and Incubation Support: Gain access to MAGIC’s incubation program, which includes expert guidance, mentoring, and resources from partners like Siemens and 3D Engineering, giving your idea the best chance to succeed.
• Solve Real Problems for the Armed Forces: Whether you’re working on defence technology, tactical equipment, advanced surveillance, or combat readiness solutions, this challenge is your chance to make a tangible difference in strengthening the Armed Forces.
• Networking Opportunities: Connect with key stakeholders in defence, innovation experts, and like-minded innovators, opening doors for collaboration, future projects, and business growth.
• Support for All Stages of Innovation: Whether you’re in the Idea Stage, MVP Stage, or Revenue Stage, this challenge is designed to provide support for innovators at any point in their journey.

We encourage participation from startups and innovators at various stages:

• Idea Stage
• MVP Stage
• Revenue Stage

The Defence Innovation Challenge for Excellence (DICE) 2024 will focus on innovations across multiple sectors related to defence technology, tactical gear, green manufacturing, mobility solutions, and much more. This challenge provides an exceptional platform for startups and innovators to contribute to India’s defence capabilities while receiving recognition and support.

Key Details: