ONGC To Launch Rs 200 Crore AIF To Fund Energy Tech And AI Startups

New Delhi, Jun 6 (KNN) State-owned oil and gas major ONGC has announced plans to launch a Rs 200 crore Alternative Investment Fund (AIF) aimed at supporting startups operating in energy technology, artificial intelligence (AI), machine learning (ML), deep-tech and clean energy sectors.

ONGC Expands Startup Investment Push 

The proposed fund will be structured as a SEBI-registered Category-I AIF and is expected to operate through institutional startup evaluation and portfolio management mechanisms to identify and support high-potential ventures.

The initiative marks ONGC's second major startup-focused investment programme. The company had earlier established a Rs 100 crore Startup Fund under the Startup India framework, a significant portion of which has reportedly already been deployed or committed to startups and innovation-led programmes.

Focus On Energy Tech, AI And Clean Energy 

The new fund is intended to strengthen innovation across strategic sectors by fostering collaboration between emerging technology companies and India's energy ecosystem.

Industry observers note that the initiative could create fresh funding opportunities for startups working on industrial technologies, advanced digital solutions, energy transition technologies and clean energy innovations.

Bridging Industry And Deep-Tech Innovation 

By expanding its startup investment platform, ONGC aims to support the development of scalable technologies while accelerating innovation in areas critical to India's long-term energy security and industrial competitiveness.

The proposed AIF is expected to bridge the gap between traditional industrial expertise and emerging technology-driven business models, helping startups access both capital and sectoral knowledge.

The move also aligns with broader efforts to strengthen India's startup ecosystem and promote innovation-led growth in strategically important sectors.

(KNN Bureau)