Apply Now to AIT India 2026/27
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July 23, 2026
20 Days Left: Apply Now to AIT India 2026/27
Dear Swiss Leading House South Asia Community,

Time is flying! Only 20 days remain to apply to AIT India 2026/27. Applications remain open until August 12.

As we enter the second half of the year, it is exciting to see new initiatives taking shape while established programs continue to evolve. A particular highlight has been the selection of the first cohort for our AIT Nepal pilot. You can find the list of participants in this newsletter. The strong interest in this new initiative has been encouraging, and I look forward to following the participants’ journey over the coming months.

We have also launched our new AIT testimonial video. Hearing former participants reflect on their experiences reminded me that one of the greatest strengths of programs like AIT lies in what happens when people come together: ideas are challenged, experiences are shared, and unexpected opportunities emerge.

If you are considering applying for AIT India, I hope these stories will give you a firsthand glimpse into the program, and perhaps encourage you to take the next step. If this year is not the right moment, you can also join our mailing list to stay informed about the next edition.

Wishing you a wonderful summer,

Amanda Strub
Head, Swiss Leading House South Asia
Content
• AIT India 2026/27: Apply Until August 12
• AIT Nepal Pilot: First Cohort Selected
• Academia-Industry Training: From Research to Impact
• What Does the Leading House Do and Why Does it Matter?
• More From the Swiss Research and Innovation Universe
 
 
AIT India 2026/27: Apply Until August 12
Are you a Swiss-based Master’s student, PhD candidate, researcher, or founder of an early-stage science-based startup? AIT India offers a unique opportunity to explore two of the world’s most dynamic innovation ecosystems and accelerate your journey from research to impact.

What’s in it for You?

✅ Two fully funded weeks in India and Switzerland
✅ Meet other entrepreneurs and learn from experts
✅ Pitch at Asia’s largest tech conference
✅ Compete for CHF 10,000 to take your next step toward international success
✅ Build your international network

Key Dates

📅 Application Deadline: August 12, 2026
📅 Jury Selection Day: September 16, 2026
📅 Kick-off Day: October 29, 2026
📅 Week in India: November 15 to 21, 2026
📅 Week in Switzerland: May 23 to 29, 2027
 
Apply now
 
 
 
Visual Academia-Industry Training Nepal
AIT Nepal Pilot: The First Cohort Has Been Selected
The AIT Nepal pilot program has completed its jury selection process. In a competitive pitching session 5 Nepali-based and 5 Swiss-based startups were selected to participate. They represent researchers and innovators who are eager to explore entrepreneurial opportunities and international collaboration. Congratulations and welcome on board:

Nepali participants 2026/27
Swiss participants 2026/27
Over the coming months, they will engage with experts, innovation ecosystems, and peers from Switzerland and Nepal while developing their ideas and expanding their networks.

We look forward to introducing the cohort soon in more depth and sharing their journey with our community.
 
Stay tuned and follow us on LinkedIn!
 
 
 
More From the Leading House Universe
 
 
Video
 
 
Academia-Industry Training: From Research to Impact
 
 
Our new video on the Academia-Industry Training (AIT) brings together voices from the AIT community. Get a firsthand glimpse into the program by hearing what past participants say about their AIT journey.

Could AIT be the right next step for you?
 
 
 
Watch our AIT Video
 
 
 
 
 
Video
 
 
What Does the Leading House Do and Why Does it Matter?
 
 
This video highlights our role in strengthening scientific collaboration between Switzerland and South Asia, and it offers insights into our activities. Amanda Strub from the Swiss Leading House South Asia and ZHAW President Regula Jöhl reflect on what it takes for research and innovation to thrive across borders.
 
 
 
Watch the Leading House Video
 
 
 
 
More From the Swiss Research and Innovation Universe
Open Call Swiss Leading House for AfricaOpen Calls SNFSOpen Calls Swissnex
 
 
One Community, Many Innovation Journeys: Stay Connected!
Whether through AIT India, AIT Nepal, or our wider activities, our mission remains the same: To connect researchers and innovators across borders and help transform scientific knowledge into meaningful societal impact.

📩 Follow us on LinkedIn to stay up to date!
🌐 Visit our website