I&B Ministry Seeks Film Tech Startups for WAVES Bazaar at IFFI Goa 2026

The Ministry of Information and Broadcasting (I&B) has opened applications for startups operating in the film and allied technology sectors to participate in the WaveX Startup Pavilion at the upcoming WAVES Bazaar. This event will take place during the International Film Festival of India (IFFI) in Goa, scheduled from November 20 to 28, 2026.

This initiative is designed to offer a dedicated platform for innovative startups to present their products, technologies, and solutions to a broad audience encompassing both national and international film and media industries. Through this exposure, startups can engage with filmmakers, production companies, investors, and other stakeholders within the global creative community.

Startups eligible to apply must be registered with the Department for Promotion of Industry and Internal Trade (DPIIT) and should be working within domains related to film and film technology. A selection committee appointed by WaveX will evaluate the applications through a structured screening process to identify participants for the pavilion.

WaveX, known as the WAVES Startup Accelerator, is an incubation and acceleration program run by the Ministry of Information and Broadcasting. It focuses on fostering entrepreneurship and innovation in the media and entertainment sector, with a specific emphasis on areas such as Animation, Visual Effects, Gaming, Comics, Extended Reality (AVGC-XR), and other emerging media technologies. This program aims to support startups by providing resources, mentorship, and networking opportunities to help them scale their innovations.

Participation in the WaveX Startup Pavilion at WAVES Bazaar represents a valuable opportunity for startups to gain visibility at one of Asia's premier film festivals. Established in 1952, the International Film Festival of India (IFFI) is an influential event that celebrates excellence in cinema from around the world. The festival annually attracts filmmakers, artists, producers, and cinema lovers, creating an environment ripe for creative exchange and international collaboration.

Startups interested in applying can find the registration form and further details on the official WAVES Bazaar website at wavex.wavesbazaar.com. Any inquiries related to the application process can be directed to the official email address Wavex-mib[at]gov[dot]in.

By participating in IFFI 2026, startups will not only showcase their innovations but also have the chance to connect with potential investors and partners, helping to accelerate their growth within the competitive media and entertainment landscape. This initiative aligns with broader efforts to encourage technological advancement and entrepreneurship in India’s creative sectors.

The WAVES Bazaar and WaveX Pavilion thus serve as important platforms linking emerging startups with established industry players, fostering a collaborative environment where new ideas can thrive and contribute to the evolving film and media markets.