The Indian Institute of Technology (IIT) Bombay and ideaForge Technology announced an agreement on Tuesday aimed at empowering future tech leaders to create solutions for real-world issues while showcasing significant technical expertise and entrepreneurial spirit.

According to reports, a six-month program named 'Who Are the Next Idiots?' was initiated under the memorandum of understanding (MoU), intending to engage individuals focused on concept-stage or early prototype ideas based on deep technology.

IIT Bombay Dean, Alumni and Corporate Relations, Upendra Bhandarkar states says, "This partnership seeks to establish a systematic framework to recognize and cultivate nascent deep-tech concepts that possess robust technical underpinnings and practical significance. We aim to assist participants by integrating academic knowledge with industry experience through evaluation, mentorship, and possible incubation routes, while nurturing an innovative culture."

Undergraduate and graduate students, recent alumni, and early-stage entrepreneurs can engage either alone or in teams of 3-4 members to present innovative deep-tech concepts. The focus continues to be on innovations that are technically based and have the ability to grow.

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Registrations commenced on February 28 and will stay open until April 30, 2026.

Submissions will be assessed in various phases according to technical depth, creativity, practicality, and entrepreneurial purpose.

In the last phase, participants will showcase feasibility using a 3D model, digital twin, or functional prototype, based on the maturity of their idea.

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IIT Bombay will aid outreach via its innovation ecosystem and institutional connections, help in the evaluation process, and facilitate in-person meetings with selected participants.

The institute will additionally investigate incubation prospects via its technology business incubator and set up support systems for participant inquiries.

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“Through 'Who Are the Next Idiots?', our goal is to recognize and assist founders creating technically advanced solutions in robotics, energy systems, advanced materials, and autonomous technologies,” states Rahul Singh, cofounder and vice president of engineering at ideaForge Technology.