As India seeks to reduce import reliance, a new MoU with Brandworks aims to improve startup for hardware manufacturing.
The Department for Promotion of Industry and Internal Trade (DPIIT) has formalised a new partnership with Brandworks Technologies Private Limited in supporting early-stage founders and innovators in India’s hardware startup sectors, in electronics, IoT, communication devices and AI-enabled devices.
The initiative will operate through Brandworks’ new division, the Brandworks Innovation and Research Foundation (BIRF). It will provide product-focused startups with access to prototyping infrastructure, technical mentorship, and manufacturing support.
Key deals of this programme includes lab-to-market assistance, design-for-manufacturing tools, and commercialisation support. Selected startups will also receive guidance on scaling production and entering global markets. Brandworks plans to support 15 startups in its first year and aims to reach over 200 in the next three to five years.
DPIIT’s involvement will primarily centre on widening access to networks and government-backed platforms. Startups participating in the scheme will be allowed to use the Startup India branding, helping build credibility among investors and corporate partners. DPIIT will also facilitate curated introductions to mentors and stakeholders from its national database.
The partnership includes plans for joint workshops focused on policy and compliance, with the aim of improving communication between innovators and policy makers. It also addresses a common challenge for hardware ventures, having limited visibility compared to the software sector. This is addressed by promoting success stories through official government channels.
The MoU reflects a broader shift towards strengthening India’s domestic capabilities in electronics and hardware, as global supply chains continue to evolve. Both DPIIT and Brandworks aim to use the collaboration to lead a hardware manufacturing innovation ecosystem.
