Ericsson has announced the launch of the Ericsson Innovation Challenge, a nationwide initiative to identify and support breakthrough technology solutions that tackle critical societal issues using 5G alongside Artificial Intelligence (AI), Cloud, and Internet of Things (IoT). The program is aimed at harnessing cutting-edge connectivity and computing to create real-world impact across India.
Launched in partnership with IAN Mentoring and Incubation Services and TiE Delhi-NCR, the Ericsson Innovation Challenge brings together India’s startup ecosystem, researchers, academic institutions, and technology innovators. The goal is to develop and deploy solutions that deliver measurable benefits in sectors that are central to India’s development.
Designed specifically for India, this initiative is part of Ericsson’s global 150-year jubilee celebrations and underscores the company’s long-standing commitment to innovation with a positive societal impact.
The challenge focuses on public-benefit solutions in areas such as rural technology and digital inclusion, access to healthcare and diagnostics, climate and environmental sustainability, agricultural productivity and food security, and advanced manufacturing.
Through this effort, Ericsson aims to strengthen national capabilities in adopting and scaling 5G technologies, while fostering innovation that leads to meaningful outcomes for communities across the country.
About the Ericsson Innovation Challenge
The Ericsson Innovation Challenge is open to researchers, faculty members, technology transfer offices, incubatees from recognised incubators, and Indian startups. Participants are invited to develop 5G-based technology solutions that are innovative, deployment-ready, and capable of delivering measurable societal impact in India.
Entries will be evaluated by a high-profile jury based on societal impact, level of innovation, scalability, sustainability, and how well the solution aligns with the specific problem area chosen by the participant.
Applications open on 2 July 2026 and close on 22 July 2026. After a multi-stage evaluation and mentoring process led by industry experts, investors, and ecosystem leaders, shortlisted teams will receive mentorship, venture-building support, and engagement opportunities with Ericsson and its partners, TiE Delhi-NCR and IAN.
The top teams will present their solutions to industry leaders, policymakers, investors, and technology experts, with winners being honoured at the final awards ceremony during India Mobile Congress 2026.
Leadership Comments
Nitin Bansal, Managing Director, Ericsson India, says, “For 150 years, Ericsson has pushed the boundaries of innovation to connect people, transform industries and positively impact the communities in which we operate. As we celebrate this milestone, we are proud to launch the Ericsson Innovation Challenge, an initiative that brings together innovators, researchers and entrepreneurs in India to leverage 5G technology in order to solve real-world challenges.”
“India has a dynamic innovation ecosystem that can leverage 5G and other emerging technologies to address critical needs across healthcare, agriculture, sustainability, manufacturing and digital inclusion. Through this initiative, we hope to support solutions that can deliver measurable impact, strengthen the 5G ecosystem and contribute to India’s digital future”, he added.
“At IAN, we have always backed founders who see opportunity where others see obstacles. The Ericsson Innovation Challenge does exactly that — it asks India’s innovators to look at our most critical societal challenges and answer them with the power of 5G. As partners in this initiative, IAN brings not just capital but deep mentoring expertise to help the most promising solutions mature into ready investment ventures. We are delighted to provide a platform that connects these innovators with the support, guidance and networks they need to turn bold ideas into lasting impact.”- Padmaja Ruparel, Co-Founder- IAN Group and Senior Managing Partner – IAN Alpha Fund
“India’s entrepreneurs have never lacked ambition — what they need is the right platform, the right mentors and the right moment. The Ericsson Innovation Challenge brings all three together. TiE Delhi-NCR is proud to partner in identifying and nurturing solutions that use 5G to address India’s most pressing needs across healthcare, agriculture, sustainability, food security and digital inclusion. Through our mentorship network and rigorous jury process, we will help ensure that the ideas which rise to the top at India Mobile Congress 2026 are not just innovative, but ready to scale and create lasting impact.” said Geetika Dayal, Director General, TiE Delhi-NCR
Interested applicants can learn more about the eligibility criteria and application process for the Ericsson Innovation Challenge here
