Samsung's R&D units in India are offering deep-tech startups up to $50,000 in grant funding for mobile innovation, notably without taking a single percentage of equity. The Samsung Mobile Advance (SMA) program aims to accelerate the development of cutting-edge technologies. The substantial non-dilutive capital provides a critical boost for early-stage ventures.

While large corporations typically invest in startups for equity, Samsung is offering substantial grants to Indian deep-tech ventures without demanding ownership. This approach challenges traditional corporate venture models that prioritize financial returns and control.

This non-dilutive approach to sourcing innovation suggests that major tech players are increasingly willing to trade direct ownership for accelerated R&D and strategic partnerships, potentially reshaping corporate-startup engagement.

The Non-Dilutive Grant Model

  • Samsung R&D Institute, Bangalore (SRI-B) and Samsung R&D Institute, Noida (SRI-N) launched the 2026 edition of Samsung Mobile Advance (SMA), a global startup incubation and partnership program, according to Timesofindia Indiatimes.
  • The SMA program offers selected startups up to $50,000 in grant funding to build proof-of-concept (PoC) solutions, states Varindia.
  • The $50,000 grant funding comes with no equity demands for PoC development, also reported by Timesofindia Indiatimes.

Samsung prioritizes tangible PoC development. The non-dilutive capital directly supports startup growth without ownership demands. The strategy aims to rapidly test and validate innovative ideas, sidestepping the complexities of equity deals.

Strategic Focus on Deep-Tech Innovation

The Samsung Mobile Advance (SMA) program invites Indian startups to collaborate on AI, XR, Security, Health, Camera, Audio, wearables, and other Samsung mobile domains, according to Timesofindia Indiatimes. This targets a wide range of future mobile technologies, specifically deep-tech ventures, as noted by Business Standard. The broad scope allows Samsung to cast a wide net for disruptive concepts.