Samsung R&D Institute, Bangalore (SRI-B) and Samsung R&D Institute, Noida (SRI-N), has announced the launch of the 2026 edition of Samsung Mobile Advance (SMA), Samsung’s flagship global startup incubation and partnership programme focused on advancing next-generation mobile technologies.
Rooted in Samsung’s Open Innovation vision, the SMA programme aims to bridge the gap between deep-tech startups and Samsung’s global mobile ecosystem, enabling breakthrough innovations across millions of devices worldwide.
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.
Focus Areas for 2026
SMA continues to adopt a broad and inclusive innovation lens, encouraging 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 is designed to foster cutting-edge solutions that can seamlessly integrate into Samsung’s mobile ecosystem, enhancing user experiences across devices and platforms.
Programme Structure & Timeline
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
Launched in India in 2023, SMA introduced 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. Under this model, Samsung does not take any equity or ownership in the startups for ideas developed through the programme.
