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Department of Promotion of Industry and Internal Trade (DPIIT), Ministry of Commerce and Industry, Government of India. 

With an initiative to spur entrepreneurship across India, Startup India Seed Fund Scheme (SISFS) aims to provide financial assistance to startups for proof of concept, prototype development, product trials, market entry and commercialization.

Under SISFS, DPIIT grants funding up to INR 525 Lakh to selected Incubators for disbursement to the startups as Grant Fund and Debt Fund.

The Scheme aims to provide financial assistance through incubators to startups for proof of concept, prototype development, product trials, market entry and commercialization.

It assists the startups to graduate to a level where they will be able to raise investments from angel investors or venture capitalists, or seek loans from commercial banks or financial institutions.

A startup, recognized by DPIIT, should not be incorporated more than 2 years ago at the time of application. To get DPIIT-recognized, please visit 

The startup must have a business idea to develop a product or a service with a market fit, viable commercialization, and scope of scaling.

The startup should be using technology in its core product or service, or business model, or distribution model, or methodology to solve the problem being targeted.

Preference would be given to startups creating innovative solutions in sectors such as social impact, waste management, water management, financial inclusion, education, agriculture, food processing, biotechnology, healthcare, energy, mobility, defence, space, railways, oil and gas, textiles, etc.

Startup should not have received more than INR 10 Lakh of monetary support under any other Central or State Government scheme. This does not include prize money from competitions and grand challenges, subsidised working space, founder monthly allowance, access to labs, or access to prototyping facility.

Shareholding by Indian promoters in the startup should be at least 51% at the time of application to the incubator for the scheme, as per Companies Act, 2013 and SEBI (ICDR) Regulations, 2018.

A startup applicant can avail seed support in the form of grant and debt/convertible debentures each once as per the guidelines of the scheme.

Startup India Seed Fund Scheme (SISFS) provides financial assistance to startups for proof of concept, prototype development, product trials, market entry, and commercialization. The Seed Fund will be disbursed to selected startups through eligible incubators across India. Eligible startups can apply for the scheme on the Startup India portal.

A startup recognized by DPIIT, incorporated not more than 2 years ago at the time of application, is invited to apply for the scheme. Detailed eligibility criteria can be found at https://seedfund.startupindia.gov.in/about.

How much seed funding can a startup receive under the scheme?

Seed Fund to an eligible startup by the incubator shall be disbursed as follows:

Up to Rs. 20 Lakhs as a grant for validation of Proof of Concept, prototype development, or product trials. The grant shall be disbursed in milestone-based installments. These milestones can be related to developing prototypes, product testing, building a product ready for market launch, etc.

Up to Rs. 50 Lakhs of investment for market entry, commercialization, or scaling up through convertible debentures or debt or debt-linked instruments.

A startup applicant can avail of seed support in the form of grants and debt/convertible debentures each once per the scheme’s guidelines

Can I apply for the scheme as an individual entrepreneur, or do I need a team?

No, individual entrepreneurs are not eligible to apply for support under the scheme. Only DPIIT recognized startups could apply for the SISFS. To get DPIIT-recognized, please visit 

Does the scheme support startups from specific sectors?

SISFS is a sector agnostic scheme, which means that startups from any sector can apply for the scheme. However, preference would be given to startups creating innovative solutions in sectors such as social impact, waste management, water management, financial inclusion, education, agriculture, food processing, biotechnology, healthcare, energy, mobility, defence, space, railways, oil, and gas, textiles, etc. This list of sectors is indicative and not exhaustive.

Are there any minimum education qualification criteria for founders to apply for SISFS?

There is no minimum education qualification required for founders to apply for SISFS

Are there any exemptions to any of the eligibility criteria?

No, there are no exemptions to any of the eligibility criteria. All the criteria must be met on the date of application submission.

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Startup India Seed Fund Scheme (SISFS)

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National Science & Technology Entrepreneurship Development Board (NSTEDB), Department of Science & Technology, Government of India

NSTEDB, DST, GoI, has introduced Seed Support Program under the National Initiative for Developing and Harnessing Innovation (NIDHI) with a basic idea of providing financial assistance to potential start-ups with promising ideas, innovations and technologies. The said seed support disbursed by an incubator to an incubatee is positioned to act as a bridge between development and commercialization of innovative technologies/products/services in a relatively hassle free manner.

NIDHI SSP aims at providing financial assistance to startups for proof of concept, prototype development, product trials, market entry and commercialization etc.

Maximum upper limit of funding is INR 100 Lakhs per startup with an average ticket size of INR 25 Lakhs.

However, the Seed Support Management Committee (SSMC) at PDEU IIC shall decide the quantum of investment based on multiple considerations including market and industry sector, stage of technology and business development, co-investment offers etc. as appropriate.

Support for product development, prototyping and testing with partners and other stakeholders along with access to 20,000+ Sq. Ft. of incubation facility.

Guidance from experienced entrepreneurs on the business model, strategy, sector and market insights.

The primary objective of the PDEU IIC – NIDHI – Seed Support Program is to ensure timely availability of the seed support to the deserving early-stage incubatee start-ups, thereby enabling them to take their venture to the next level and facilitate their success in the marketplace.

Amount sanctioned is to act as a bridge between development and commercialization of innovative technologies/ products/ service in a relatively hassle free manner

The eligibility criteria for a startup to apply for the Nidhi- Seed Support Program (SSP) are as follows:  

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NIDHI SEED SUPPORT PROGRAM (SSP)

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National Science & Technology Entrepreneurship Development Board (NSTEDB), Department of Science & Technology (DST), Government of India

NIDHI-PRAYAS program focuses on addressing the funding gap at a very early stage idea/ proof of concept stage in the startup life cycle. This program aims to attract a large number of youngsters to come forward to try out their ideas without actually worrying about the failure and reach a stage where they have a market-fit product and are willing to approach incubators for commercialization.

Prototyping Grant Support – Prototyping Grant of up to INR 10 Lakhs.

Prototyping Support & Incubation Space – Support for product development, prototyping and testing with partners and other stakeholders along with access to 20,000+ sq. ft. of incubation facility. 

Mentoring & Guidance – Guidance from experienced entrepreneurs on the business model, strategy, sector, and market insights.

Notwithstanding the above, the followings will not be considered under NIDHI-PRAYAS:

Projects related to Pure Software development, e-Commerce, Service solutions, App. based solutions.

Funding research or student internship in Academic institutions or R&D organisations.

PRAYAS support is in form of the grant which will be maximum up to Rs.10 lakhs.

PRAYAS applications will be subject to decision of the committee members of the PC where innovator has applied. The decision of approval or rejection or reduced amount by the committee shall remain final and binding on the innovator.

The applicant will be fully committed to work towards the prototype development for which the support is being sought with an intention to commercialize.

The project duration is 18 months. Prototype has to be completed within maximum 18 months from receiving the first tranche of the grant.

For incomplete projects, PRAYASEE must return an unutilized amount of the grant.

If an innovator has already started a venture, the innovator should assign the IP ownership right to the Startup.

Innovators or Start-up teams cannot avail NIDHI PRAYAS Support for more than once nor from more than one centre. Innovators shall also not be supported in parallel under NIDHI-EIR and NIDHI-PRAYAS. Innovators will give a declaration at the time of making an application indicating that they have not received support under NIDHI-PRAYAS for the same idea or NIDHI-EIR.

How and where do I apply for availing PRAYAS grant?

DST-NIDHI’s PRAYAS is a fund sanctioned by NSTEDB, Department of Science and Technology, Govt. of India, to PRAYAS Centre at PDEU IIC. The Centres shall announce periodical calls for applications. Link to apply for PRAYAS is given above.

Is there any technology preference under NIDHI-PRAYAS?

The priority areas for supporting innovations under NIDHI PRAYAS program are manufacturing, agriculture, healthcare, clean-tech, energy, water and Internet of Things (IOT). However, ideas under other technology areas may be considered on merit basis.

NIDHI-PRAYAS scheme is for converting an idea into a prototype for a physical product. Projects related to pure Software development, Ecommerce, Service, App based solutions will not be supported under NIDHI-Prayas. However, software as one of the components of hardware products (for ex. an IoT product) can be considered for project funding for an integrated hardware prototype development.

I have a prototype ready for a hardware product. Can I apply for NIDHI-PRAYAS for product completion support?

NIDHI-PRAYAS is a Proof-of-Concept grant. Products that have passed prototype level cannot be supported under NIDHI-PRAYAS.

What is the eligibility criteria for innovators to apply under NIDHI-PRAYAS?

Please Click Here to know about the eligibility criteria for innovators or start-up.

What is the quantum of funding support given to innovators/start-up?

The maximum funding support provided is up to Rs.10 lakhs. However, the local PRAYAS Centre Monitoring Committee decides the funding amount for their selected innovators.

Can I take my salary from the PRAYAS grant? Is there any guideline for the use of funds received under PRAYAS?

No, the innovators cannot take any salary from the PRAYAS grant. The grant fund can be used only for below purposes:

What is the duration of the PRAYAS program?

The total duration of the proposed project by innovators under the PRAYAS program should not exceed 18 months. If there is no progress made by the innovator, the PC reserves the right to terminate the support to the innovator and the project will be discontinued, and the Innovator should return the unused funds.

For receiving the PRAYAS Grant, is it necessary to incubate with the PRAYAS Centre:

YES, the selected applicant must pre-incubate or intubate with the PRAYAS centre upon receiving the PRAYAS grant.

What is the other support which I can get under the PRAYAS program?

The PRAYASEE will get access to the space, access to the Fab Lab, technical guidance, mentorship, during their project duration.

I have already received a PRAYAS grant, can I apply once again?

NO, the innovator/start-up can avail the PRAYAS support only one time.

The applications received under the program are subject to due diligence of the screening process. Only shortlisted participants will be notified/ informed about the final presentation to the monitoring committee via email.

Screening will be subject to the parameters other than the eligibility, such as Innovation, Potential for commercialization and venture creation, Team capability and Commitment etc.

The decision of the screening committee for approval and funding support will be final, firm and binding.

The approved applicants will have to agree for Pre incubation/ Incubation with PDEU IIC as per its incubation policy/terms.

Screening of applications will take 6-8 weeks, from the date of closure of online applications. Only selected candidates will be notified. No communication from SINE within the timeframe may be deemed as non-selection of your application for the program.

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NIDHI PRAYAS

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Industries Commissionerate, Government of Gujarat

The scheme was first introduced as part of New Industrial Policy, by the Industries and Mines Department, Government of Gujarat on Jan 01, 2015. Later in 2020, the scheme was updated under the Gujarat Industrial Policy 2020, for a period of five years effective from August 07, 2020.

The objective of the scheme is to utilize the innovative and entrepreneurial mind set of youth through start-ups and incubators. The incentives under the previous scheme created a strong network of nodal institutions and supported start-ups in setting up/expanding their operations both in national and international markets. The new scheme aims to further accelerate and strengthen the start-up ecosystem in the state.

: Up to INR 30 Lakh for Product Development, Marketing and Professional Assistance.

: Up to INR 10 Lakh can be availed by start-ups with significant social impact.

: Up to INR 20,000 per month for one year. Up to Rs. 25,000 per month for one year, if the start-up has at least one woman co-founder.

: Up to INR 1 Lakh per start-up for training in soft skills.

: Up to INR 3 Lakh per start-up to approved/ sanctioned start-ups under the policy, to enroll and participate in National/International Level Accelerator Program.

Approved/ sanctioned start-ups under the scheme, are eligible to avail an additional interest subsidy of 1%, maximum up to 9% on term loans, under the provisions of scheme for assistance to MSMEs.

Any individual/group of individuals having innovative ideas/concepts and recommended by approved Nodal Institute are eligible.

The applicant should be a citizen of India.

The applicant/start-up must be registered and have substantial operations based in Gujarat during the time of the grant and a significant part of operations in Gujarat after the tenure of the grant.

Start-up must be registered as Limited Liability Partnership firm/ Partnership firm/ Private Limited Company.

Start-up/ Innovator cannot be the promoter or significant (>10%) shareholder/ beneficiary of another company/ start-up at the time of applying for and receiving the approval for the assistance.

The applicant should be registered for the pre-incubation or incubation program at the Nodal Institute for at least 2 months before becoming eligible.

The applicant must be incubated full time at the Nodal Institute during the entire duration of support under the business.

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SCHEME FOR ASSISTANCE FOR START UPS AND INNOVATION

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Department of Science & Technology (DST), Government of India.

Venture Centre, NCL, Pune; identified as Programme Implementing Partner (PIP) by NSTEDB (National Science and Technology Entrepreneurship Development Board)

Entrepreneurs-in-Residence (EIR) Program is one of the most prominent and enticing programs introduced under the NIDHI Scheme by the DST, GoI. NIDHI-EIR Fellowship Program has been conceived to inspire the best talents to be entrepreneurs, by nurturing them, offering mentorship on entrepreneurship, by offering access to office space and guidance. It provides tremendous opportunities for innovative entrepreneurs to expand their networks and get critical feedback on their ventures in order to promote their entrepreneurial career goals and aspirations. 

It also offers a monthly fellowship amount for a year to minimize the risk involved in pursuing start-ups, and to partially set off their opportunity costs of high paying jobs.

: Grant of up to INR 3.6 Lakh as monthly fellowship spread across 12 months ranging from  INR 10,000 to INR 30,000.

: Support for product development, prototyping and testing with partners and other stakeholders.

: Guidance from experienced entrepreneurs on the business model, strategy, sector and market insights.

: EIRs get incubation space, access to group knowledge sessions and pitch review at the incubation centre in Ahmedabad.

To encourage graduating students to take up entrepreneurship as a career option without any additional risks involved in technology based businesses. 

To enable creation of new start-ups by entrepreneurs and significant progress towards raising funding or investment

Entrepreneurs-in-Residence (EIR) Program is one of the programs introduced under the NIDHI Scheme by the Department of Science & Technology, Government of India. NIDHI-EIR Fellowship Program has been conceived to inspire the best talents to be entrepreneurs, by nurturing them to entrepreneurship with mentorship, access to office space, and guidance. PDEU Innovation and Incubation Centre has been selected under this scheme in October 2021.

What support shall be provided to a recipient under NIDHI EIR Program?

Funding Support of minimum INR 10,000/- to maximum INR 30,000/- per month for a period of 12 months shall be given to an individual. Other Benefits such as Prototyping support, Mentoring & Guidance, and Access to Incubation Space & Lab Facilities will be available at a reasonable service charge.

2. is a having undergraduate/post-graduate degree or diploma, in the field of science or engineering;

3. is a first-generation innovative-entrepreneur, who has no prior source of income;

4. is a scalable technology business start-up and is expected to pursue it full time; and

5. is or shall not be the promoter or shareholder holding more than 10% of another company

Can an under-graduation final year student apply for the Program?

No, an individual who has completed 4 years of formal undergraduate/postgraduate education OR has completed a 3 years degree or diploma program in science or engineering and has 2 years of full-time work experience post-degree or diploma, can only apply for the program.

An individual can apply for the program online with the help of the following link/QR code: https://forms.gle/gJsNeHEzfAW3PYMT9

What documents or details are required for applying?

Following documents will be required while applying online :

4. CV or Resume with details of education and work experience

5. Concept note of the proposed technology/business idea describing the knowledge or technology intensity aspects of the idea

6. Business presentation including the investment proposal (As per the template given in the online form)

Is it necessary for a selected individual to get incubated at PDEU IIC – NIDHI TBI?

Yes, it is necessary for a selected individual to get incubated at PDEU IIC – NIDHI TBI

Can an individual submit an application for more than one idea/start-up under this Program?

No, an individual can only apply for one idea/start-up under this program.

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NIDHI – ENTREPRENEURS-IN-RESIDENCE PROGRAM (EIR)

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Education Department, Government of Gujarat

The Student Startup & Innovation Policy (SSIP) is a first-of-its-kind policy in the country that shall create a much-needed Innovation and Preincubation Ecosystem Support for Students (IPIES) across the state, by adding to the startup ecosystem of Gujarat and creating a strong innovation-driven culture in the state’s higher education spectrum. 

This initiative intends to create an integrated, state-wide, university-based innovation ecosystem to support innovations and ideas of young students and provide a conducive environment for optimum harnessing of their creative pursuit:

: 	INR 75,000 for Domestic, INR 1.5 Lakh for other countries

Semiconductor Integrated Circuits Layout-Design Registry (SICLDR)

Any person up to the age of 35 years, who is:

The innovation of the beneficiary should contribute towards either development or improvement of any product or process or service in existing or new fields; or should be a scalable business model with a potential to generate employment or wealth creation. 

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Student Start-Up & Innovation Policy (SSIP 2.0)

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In the month of June 2023, DC-MSME has launched MSME Idea Hackathon 3.0 (Women). Ideas in MSME idea Hackathon 3.0 are being invited from Women Innovators and MSMEs from all over India under the scheme of the Office of Development Commissioner – MSME, for 'Support for Entrepreneurial and Managerial Development of MSMEs through Incubators'.

Financial assistance up to a maximum of Rs. 15 lakh per approved idea shall be provided to the Host Institute for developing and nurturing the idea into a prototype.

All ideas should contain inter-alia, following basic types of Innovation Processes:

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MSME Champions Scheme/ MSME Innovative Scheme

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Electronics & IT/ITeS Start-up Policy (2016-21) by Department of Science & Technology, Government of Gujarat

Support of more than INR 90 Lakh from the Director, ICT and e- Governance, Department of Science and Technology, Government of Gujarat towards capital expenditure and procurement of software for set-up of IT based infrastructure

Over the last two decades, a majority of innovations and value creation has centred on application of Information and Communication Technology (ICT). Consistent with the global trend and to nurture entrepreneurship and innovation in the Electronics & IT/ITeS sector, the Government of Gujarat has issued an Electronics & IT/ITeS Start-up Policy with an aim of taking forward Technology and Innovation, in their applied form, for the benefit of mankind and to deliver faster, sustained and inclusive, the entrepreneurial spirit is required to be encouraged.

In view of this ambitious vision, the objectives were laid out under Electronics & IT/ITeS Start-up Policy (2016-21), the Government of Gujarat; and has introduced a “Scheme of assistance for Incubators and Start-ups” which will come into force from the date of issuance of this Government Resolution (GR) and will remain in operation till the operative period of the Tech Start-up Policy.

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