Academia-Industry Training India
The Academia-Industry Training (AIT) India program supports researchers from Switzerland and India who want to turn their science into business. Whether you are working on a startup idea or have already launched a startup based on your applied research, this program helps you explore the Indian and Swiss innovation ecosystems and brings you closer to a market-ready solution.
For over a decade, the AIT India has been empowering researchers to become sciencepreneurs. The program is funded by the Swiss Leading House South Asia. Together with our partners Swissnex in India and STARTUP CAMPUS we design this program to support participants in exploring the potential of their innovations in the Indian and Swiss markets.
AIT India alumni have launched successful startups and entered new markets. Many of these startups have made a lasting impact in fields such as sustainability, energy and health. This makes the program a reliable early indicator of emerging trends.
The next opportunity to apply to the program starts on June 8, 2026. Read on and follow us to get all updates on AIT India.
Eligibility Swiss-based applicants
The program is open to Swiss-based researchers (this includes professors, senior scientists, postdocs, and PhD students) or master’s students
- of a Swiss federal or cantonal university, university of applied sciences, university of teacher education, or public research institute across all scientific disciplines and fields of research (please check the eligible institutions in our overview),
- with a startup idea, or
- who have founded or co-founded an early-stage, science-based startup or spin-off.
If you meet the criteria above, we are very much looking forward to receiving your application.
What’s in it for you?
- Participate in two fully funded weeks in India and in Switzerland
- Pitch at Asia’s largest tech conference
- Compete for CHF 10,000 to take your next step toward international success
- Join a vibrant community of sciencepreneurs
- Build your international network
Program information and documents
The application window for Swiss-based applicants is open until August 12, 2026 (midnight).
Apply now on our grant platform.
10 Swiss-based startups will be selected in a competitive virtual pitching session on September 9, 2026.
The AIT India 2026/27 edition will consist of the following:
- Application Deadline: August 12, 2026
- Jury Selection Day: September 16, 2026
- Kick-off Day: October 29, 2026
- Week in India: November 15 to 21, 2026
- Week in Switzerland: Mai 23 to 29, 2027
If this year is not an option, join the waiting list for upcoming opportunities. Please complete the form here.
AIT India Alumni
Learn more about our alumni, their research, and startups.
In short: Academia-Industry Training India
Grant of CHF 10,000: compete for this grant to further develop and scale your innovation
Expenses covered: all expenses including food, accommodation, and transportation during the seminaries
Program destinations: India and Switzerland
Call: 1 per year
Inspiration
Gain an insight into past program editions and hear directly from participants.
