📌About the Event

The Ericsson Innovation Challenge 2026 is a nationwide innovation programme launched by Ericsson India as part of its 150th-anniversary celebrations. The challenge invites Indian startups, researchers, faculty members, incubatees, and technology innovators to develop 5G-powered solutions with measurable societal impact. Solutions can also combine technologies such as AI, cloud and IoT, with focus areas including healthcare, agriculture, sustainability, rural digital inclusion and advanced manufacturing.

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ℹ️ Event Details

• Mode: Hybrid/multi-stage programme — online application and evaluation followed by mentoring and an offline final showcase.
• Final Venue: India Mobile Congress 2026, Yashobhoomi, New Delhi.
• Main Theme: Using 5G connectivity to solve real-world societal challenges in India.
• Focus Areas:
• Rural technology & digital inclusion
• Healthcare access & diagnostics
• Climate & environmental sustainability
• Agricultural productivity & food security
• Advanced manufacturing
• Solutions should already have a working prototype validated in a relevant environment; untested ideas or early-stage research are not eligible.

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📅 Important Dates

• Final Showcase: India Mobile Congress 2026
• IMC 2026 Dates: 7–10 October 2026
• Final Venue: Yashobhoomi, New Delhi.

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🎯 Eligibility & Rules

• Eligibilty:
• Researchers and faculty from recognised institutions
• Technology Transfer Office personnel
• Incubatees from recognised/government-approved incubators
• DPIIT-recognised or registered Indian startups
• Multidisciplinary teams combining eligible categories
• Applicants must be India-based, and the proposed solution must benefit beneficiaries in India.
• The solution must leverage 5G/connectivity technology and address a recognised societal problem.

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🏆 Benefits for the Participants

• 6 winning teams are expected to be showcased at India Mobile Congress 2026.
• Winning teams receive cash/privately funded awards to support deployment and measurable public impact; the official programme page does not currently specify the exact award amount.
• Shortlisted participants receive:
  • Structured mentorship
  • Venture-building support
  • Ecosystem access
• Engagement opportunities with Ericsson, TiE Delhi-NCR and IAN
• Exposure to investors, industry experts and ecosystem leaders
• Winning solutions get an opportunity to be showcased at India Mobile Congress 2026 before industry leaders, policymakers, investors and technology experts.