The Ministry of Petroleum & Natural Gas (MoPNG) led energy innovation platform MC²+ has launched MC²+ Ignite, a sector-specific accelerator programme for deep-tech startups in the energy sector. The programme aims to support startups in moving from technology development and laboratory validation to industrial pilots and commercial deployment. The inaugural cohort will include approximately 30 startups, with selected companies eligible for up to Rs 20 million each in milestone-linked convertible funding.
Furthermore, the programme will provide access to research and development (R&D) infrastructure, technical expertise, industry mentors, pilot opportunities and potential commercial pathways through participating energy companies. It is intended to address challenges faced by deep-tech startups in accessing industrial assets, pilot sites, customers and growth capital required to move from proof-of-concept to commercial deployment.
MC²+ Ignite will follow a decentralised acceleration and innovation model, with a hub in Delhi and nodes at the R&D centres of participating companies in the Indian oil and gas sector. MC²+ has also partnered with IIT Madras, IIT Kanpur, IIT Kharagpur, C-CAMP and Venture Center, Pune, to provide access to infrastructure, laboratories and mentoring. Applications for the inaugural cohort opened on August 5, 2026, and will close on August 31, 2026, while the selected startups are expected to be announced on September 15, 2026.
