Samsung India has announced the launch of the 2026 edition of its global startup incubation program, Samsung Mobile Advance (SMA). This initiative, spearheaded by Samsung R&D Institute Bangalore (SRI-B) and Samsung R&D Institute Noida (SRI-N), focuses on nurturing next-generation mobile technologies and integrates Indian deep-tech startups into Samsung's expansive global mobile ecosystem. The program operates under Samsung's Open Innovation strategy, seeking to combine external startup ingenuity with the company's in-house research and development capabilities to drive innovation across millions of devices worldwide.
Grant Funding and Equity-Free Support
A key feature of the SMA program is its commitment to supporting startups without demanding equity. Selected participants can receive grant funding of up to $50,000 specifically for proof-of-concept (PoC) development. This financial backing is designed to enable startups to validate their innovative ideas and scale their solutions within Samsung's robust ecosystem. According to reports, Samsung explicitly stated that it does not take any equity or ownership in the startups for the ideas developed through this program. This model aims to foster a collaborative environment where innovation can flourish without the immediate pressure of ceding control.
Bridging the Gap Between Startups and Global Markets
The SMA program, first introduced in India in 2023, plays a crucial role in identifying and supporting high-potential startups. It offers them strategic partnerships, incubation support, and opportunities for product validation. By connecting these nascent companies with Samsung's global mobile ecosystem, the initiative aims to accelerate their growth and facilitate the integration of their cutting-edge technologies into mainstream mobile products. The program's objective is to co-create the future of mobile experiences by leveraging the agility and innovation of startups alongside Samsung's extensive R&D and market reach. Mohan Rao Goli, Managing Director and CVP at Samsung R&D Institute India, Bangalore, emphasized the program's commitment to open innovation, stating that it aims to build long-term partnerships that not only accelerate innovation but also translate bold ideas into impactful global solutions.
Focus on Deep-Tech and Future Mobile Innovations
This iteration of the Samsung Mobile Advance program specifically targets startups working on advanced mobile technologies. The initiative seeks to foster collaborations in areas that will define the next generation of mobile experiences, potentially including advancements in artificial intelligence, augmented reality, advanced connectivity, and novel user interfaces. By investing in and supporting these deep-tech ventures, Samsung aims to stay at the forefront of mobile innovation and deliver differentiated consumer experiences. The program's structure encourages startups that demonstrate strong cultural and technological synergy with Samsung, facilitating a seamless integration of external innovations with Samsung's core R&D expertise. The overarching goal is to nurture these partnerships to achieve global scale and impact.