The Department for Promotion of Industry and Internal Trade (DPIIT) has signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) with Hero MotoCorp, the world’s largest two-wheeler manufacturer, to launch the ‘Hero For Startups’ Innovation Accelerator Program. This strategic collaboration is designed to identify, support, and scale early-stage startups and entrepreneurs in India, with a focus on sectors that will shape the future of mobility and sustainable innovation.
The initiative aligns with the government’s vision of fostering entrepreneurship through Startup India, while leveraging Hero MotoCorp’s global expertise, infrastructure, and industry networks to accelerate startup growth.
Focus Areas: Future Mobility, Clean Technology, and Deep Tech
The accelerator programme will target startups working on future mobility solutions, including electric vehicles, advanced battery systems, autonomous technology, and intelligent transport systems. It will also prioritise clean technology innovations, such as alternative fuels, carbon-reduction solutions, and circular economy models, alongside deep technology areas like AI, robotics, advanced materials, and Industry 4.0 applications.
By concentrating on these high-impact sectors, the partnership aims to position Indian startups at the forefront of global technological transformation.
Access to World-Class R&D Facilities
One of the programme’s key offerings is access to Hero MotoCorp’s state-of-the-art Research and Development centres in India and Germany. These facilities will provide startups with cutting-edge prototyping labs, testing tracks, simulation tools, and engineering expertise, enabling rapid innovation and refinement of products.
Startups will have the opportunity to work alongside Hero’s engineers and product development teams, significantly accelerating the journey from concept to commercialisation.
Mentorship, Market Access, and Dealer Network Integration
Selected startups will benefit from personalised mentorship from industry veterans, subject matter experts, and innovation leaders. This guidance will cover product development, market strategy, fundraising, and scaling operations.
In addition, startups will gain entry into Hero’s extensive dealer and supplier network, offering unparalleled access to distribution channels, manufacturing partners, and supply chain support. This integration is expected to provide startups with a strong competitive edge in bringing their products to market.
Opportunities for Paid Proofs of Concept (PoCs)
The ‘Hero For Startups’ program will also offer paid Proofs of Concept (PoCs), allowing selected ventures to pilot their innovations in real-world conditions with Hero MotoCorp’s support. Successful pilots could lead to long-term collaborations, strategic investments, or large-scale deployments within Hero’s business ecosystem.
Driving India’s Startup and Innovation Ecosystem
Officials from DPIIT highlighted that the partnership represents a model for public-private collaboration in nurturing next-generation enterprises. “By combining policy support with Hero MotoCorp’s global industry leadership, we can give startups the resources they need to compete at a global scale,” a DPIIT spokesperson said.
Hero MotoCorp leaders echoed this sentiment, noting that the accelerator aligns with the company’s vision for sustainable and technology-driven mobility solutions.
The ‘Hero For Startups’ Innovation Accelerator is expected to catalyse breakthroughs in mobility and clean technology while strengthening India’s position as a global innovation hub.
