Benefit Amount
Varies - Seed funding up to Rs.10 lakh for NIDHI Prayas, up to Rs.50 lakh for NIDHI Seed, varying support through acceleratorsLoan, Subsidy, Training, Service
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ℹAbout National Initiative for Developing and Harnessing Innovations
NIDHI is a national program by the Department of Science and Technology designed to nurture innovative startups and budding entrepreneurs in India. The scheme provides end-to-end support including seed funding, mentorship, incubation, and acceleration to help turn innovative ideas into viable business ventures. It aims to create an ecosystem for innovation-driven entrepreneurship across the country. NIDHI supports entrepreneurs at various stages—from ideation to commercialization—through its network of incubators and accelerators. The program particularly encourages young innovators, students, and researchers to develop technology-based solutions for societal challenges and commercial opportunities.
Ministry
Ministry of Science and Technology
Benefit Type
Loan, Subsidy, Training, Service
✓Who Is Eligible?
The NIDHI scheme is open to Indian innovators and entrepreneurs of all genders who are at least 18 years old. You can be a student, researcher, working professional, or budding entrepreneur with an innovative technology-based idea or working prototype. There are no specific income restrictions or caste-based requirements, making it inclusive for all citizens. The scheme welcomes applicants from all states across India, with no geographic limitations. You must have an innovative idea that can be developed into a viable business or a working prototype that demonstrates your innovation. If you are applying as a registered startup or company, you will need to provide your Incorporation Certificate. The scheme particularly encourages young innovators and researchers who want to develop technology-based solutions addressing societal challenges or commercial opportunities. Whether you are at the ideation stage or have already developed a prototype, NIDHI provides support across different stages of entrepreneurship. No specific educational qualification is mandatory, though you will need to provide educational certificates as proof of your background. Check the official NIDHI portal at https://www.nidhi.gov.in for any specific requirements based on the particular NIDHI program you wish to apply for, as different components may have slightly different criteria.
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Gender: Male, Female, Other✓
Category: General, OBC, SC, ST, Minority, EWS📝How to Apply for National Initiative for Developing and Harnessing Innovations
Follow these simple steps to apply for the NIDHI scheme: First, visit the official NIDHI website at https://www.nidhi.gov.in to understand which NIDHI program suits your needs, such as NIDHI Prayas for early-stage ideas or NIDHI Seed for developed concepts. Second, prepare all required documents including your Aadhaar Card, PAN Card, a detailed Business Plan explaining your innovation, proof of your innovation or patent, your Bank Account Details, Educational Certificates, and if your startup is registered, the Incorporation Certificate. Third, create your online profile on the NIDHI portal and fill in all personal and business information accurately. Fourth, upload all your documents in the required format as specified on the website. Fifth, submit your complete application along with your innovative business proposal. Sixth, track your application status on the portal using your login credentials. Finally, if shortlisted, you will be contacted for further evaluation, interviews, and mentorship sessions. Make sure to read all instructions carefully on the official website before applying to avoid any rejections due to incomplete information.
Visit Official Portal →📄Documents Required7 required
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Proof of Innovation/Patent📋
Educational Certificates📋
Incorporation Certificate (for registered entities)?Frequently Asked Questions
1Who is eligible to apply for NIDHI support?
Any Indian innovator, student, or entrepreneur with a technology-based innovative idea is eligible. This includes individuals, teams, and registered startups. There is no upper age limit, and applicants from all educational backgrounds can apply. The idea must have commercial or social impact potential.
2What types of financial support does NIDHI provide?
NIDHI offers seed funding through NIDHI Seed scheme (up to Rs.50 lakh), pre-incubation support through NIDHI Prayas (up to Rs.10 lakh), and acceleration support through various NIDHI Accelerators. Additionally, it provides mentorship, business planning assistance, and access to incubation facilities at no cost initially.
3How do I apply for NIDHI support?
You can apply through the official NIDHI portal (nidhi.gov.in) by registering your idea or startup. You need to submit your business plan, innovation details, and relevant documents. Applications are reviewed by expert committees, and successful applicants are onboarded into appropriate NIDHI schemes based on their stage of development.
4Is there any equity taken by NIDHI in supported startups?
No, NIDHI does not take any equity stake in the startups it supports. The funding is provided as grant or soft loan assistance, allowing entrepreneurs to retain full ownership and control of their ventures. The focus is purely on fostering innovation and entrepreneurship.
5Can foreign nationals apply for NIDHI support?
NIDHI primarily focuses on Indian innovators and startups. However, Indian registered startups with foreign team members may be eligible. It is recommended to check specific guidelines on the NIDHI portal or contact the administering body directly for clarification on international applicant eligibility.
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