Samsung invites applications for 2026 startup programme with $50,000 grant
Samsung R&D Institute, Bangalore ( SRI-B ) and Samsung R&D Institute, Noida ( SRI-N ) has launched the 2026 edition of Samsung Mobile Advance (SMA), Samsung’s flagship global startup incubation and partnership programme focused on advancing next-generation mobile technologies. Launched in 2023 in India, the programme aims to bridge the gap between deep-tech startups and Samsung’s global mobile ecosystem, enabling breakthrough innovations across millions of devices worldwide. It offers a a dedicated grant funding model of up to $50,000 with no equity for Proof-of-Concept (PoC) development, enabling startups to validate and scale their innovations within Samsung’s ecosystem.
In its latest edition, SMA invites startups from India to collaborate with Samsung in shaping the future of mobile experiences. Since its inception, Samsung’s Open Innovation initiative has focused on combining external innovation with in-house R&D to deliver differentiated consumer experiences. With dedicated charters spanning integrated partnerships, strategic investments, and startup incubation, SMA plays a critical role in identifying and nurturing high-potential startups.
Mohan Rao Goli, Managing Director and CVP, Samsung R&D Institute India, Bangalore said “SMA reflects our deep commitment to open innovation, bringing together startup ingenuity and Samsung’s global R&D strength to co-create the future of mobile experiences. We aim to build long-term partnerships that not only accelerate innovation but also translate bold ideas into impactful solutions at global scale”.
Kyungyun Roo, Managing Director, Samsung R&D Institute India, Noida, said “Through SMA, we focus on partnering with startups that demonstrate strong cultural and technological synergy. We aim to integrate the best of external innovation with Samsung’s R&D expertise to shape the future of mobile experiences”.
Samsung Mobile Advance: Focus areas for 2026
SMA encourages startups to apply across a wide range of categories, including AI, XR, Security, Health, Camera, Audio, wearables, and other Samsung mobile-related domains. The programme follows a structured, multi-stage evaluation and incubation process:
* Application Submission (April – June 30): Startups submit a detailed 6-month PoC proposal outlining innovation, feasibility, and impact
* Application Review (July): Proposals evaluated by Samsung’s expert panel
* Pitch Day (September): Shortlisted startups present to a jury of Samsung leaders
* Final Selection: Announced post Pitch Day
* Programme Commencement (October): Selected startups begin incubation with funding and mentorship
* PoC Demo Day: Culminates in a final showcase with potential pathways to commercialization, partnerships, or investment.
For India, applications can be submitted at startup.connect@samsung.com.
Participants in Samsung Mobile Advance (SMA) benefit from:
* Grant funding (no equity by Samsung) to build Proof-of-Concepts
* Mentorship from Samsung’s global experts and talent network
* Access to Samsung’s product ecosystem and distribution scale
* Opportunities for strategic partnerships and investments
* Long-term collaboration within Samsung’s innovation ecosystem
In its latest edition, SMA invites startups from India to collaborate with Samsung in shaping the future of mobile experiences. Since its inception, Samsung’s Open Innovation initiative has focused on combining external innovation with in-house R&D to deliver differentiated consumer experiences. With dedicated charters spanning integrated partnerships, strategic investments, and startup incubation, SMA plays a critical role in identifying and nurturing high-potential startups.
Mohan Rao Goli, Managing Director and CVP, Samsung R&D Institute India, Bangalore said “SMA reflects our deep commitment to open innovation, bringing together startup ingenuity and Samsung’s global R&D strength to co-create the future of mobile experiences. We aim to build long-term partnerships that not only accelerate innovation but also translate bold ideas into impactful solutions at global scale”.
Kyungyun Roo, Managing Director, Samsung R&D Institute India, Noida, said “Through SMA, we focus on partnering with startups that demonstrate strong cultural and technological synergy. We aim to integrate the best of external innovation with Samsung’s R&D expertise to shape the future of mobile experiences”.
Samsung Mobile Advance: Focus areas for 2026
SMA encourages startups to apply across a wide range of categories, including AI, XR, Security, Health, Camera, Audio, wearables, and other Samsung mobile-related domains. The programme follows a structured, multi-stage evaluation and incubation process:
* Application Submission (April – June 30): Startups submit a detailed 6-month PoC proposal outlining innovation, feasibility, and impact
* Application Review (July): Proposals evaluated by Samsung’s expert panel
* Pitch Day (September): Shortlisted startups present to a jury of Samsung leaders
* Final Selection: Announced post Pitch Day
* Programme Commencement (October): Selected startups begin incubation with funding and mentorship
* PoC Demo Day: Culminates in a final showcase with potential pathways to commercialization, partnerships, or investment.
For India, applications can be submitted at startup.connect@samsung.com.
Participants in Samsung Mobile Advance (SMA) benefit from:
* Grant funding (no equity by Samsung) to build Proof-of-Concepts
* Mentorship from Samsung’s global experts and talent network
* Access to Samsung’s product ecosystem and distribution scale
* Opportunities for strategic partnerships and investments
* Long-term collaboration within Samsung’s innovation ecosystem
Next Story