The focus? Leveraging emerging technologies like LLMs and autonomous AI agents to reimagine critical areas such as supply chain, operating software, infrastructure, and advanced manufacturing processes. For India’s most ambitious startups, this challenge offers more than recognition, it offers real-world opportunity.
Top winners will receive paid pilot projects worth up to INR 5 lakh, direct mentorship from Michelin’s global leadership, and the chance to scale with international contracts. As a brand obsessed with performance.
A Government-Backed, Industry-Led Call to Innovate
The initiative was launched in presence of Shri Sanjiv (Joint Secretary, DPIIT), Shri Sumeet Kumar Jarangal (Director, DPIIT), and hosted by Dr. Ambica Rajagopal, Michelin Group Chief Data and AI Officer, along with Shri Shantanu Deshpande, Managing Director, Michelin India. A special recorded address was also given by Shri Rajesh Kumar Singh, Secretary, DPIIT.As per Secretary Singh, the challenge is not just about AI, it's about building sustainable, safe, and efficient solutions that can impact manufacturing quality and safety at scale. “This initiative exposes Indian talent to global clients, while empowering innovation across robotics, supply chain, and next-gen infrastructure,” he noted.
What Makes This Challenge Different
Here’s what sets this initiative apart it’s not just about funding or exposure. This challenge offers deep engagement, with selected startups gaining:Full mentorship from Michelin’s global AI experts
A shot at piloting with one of the world’s most innovative tyre companies
Potential long-term global contracts and incubation support
Outreach starts in July, with shortlisting and mentoring happening through August, and finale in September. This program is hosted on the Startup India portal, and exclusively open to DPIIT-recognized startups.
In the words of Dr. Ambica Rajagopal, “There’s never been a more exciting time for startups in AI, and we’re proud to drive this collaboration forward with India’s visionary tech ecosystem”.
More Than Tyres. A Statement of Intent.
From innovating in sustainable materials to engineering smarter mobility systems, Michelin has never played it safe. With over 130 years of polymer and engineered material expertise, this challenge is a continuation of their commitment to shaping the next generation of performance products.For startups in the manufacturing and mobility domain, this is a golden chance to build alongside a brand that understands both speed and scale. It’s also a signal to the global stage: India’s AI game is not emerging it’s accelerating.
This collaboration between Michelin and DPIIT could redefine how startups engage with legacy industries.