NIDHI Seed Support Program 2026: Up to ₹100 Lakh Funding for Startups
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Quick answer
The NIDHI Seed Support Program (SSP) provides financial assistance of up to ₹100 lakh to promising startups and up to ₹1000 lakh to incubators under the Department of Science and Technology. It aims to help entrepreneurs and researchers bridge the gap between innovation and commercialisation. Eligible innovators and early-stage ventures can apply online via the DST e-PMS portal through recognised incubators.
At a glance
| Main benefit | Up to ₹100 lakh for startups |
| Ministry / department | Ministry Of Science And Technology |
| Level | Central Government |
| Application mode | Online |
About the scheme
The NIDHI Seed Support Program (NIDHI-SSP) is an initiative by the Department of Science and Technology under the Ministry of Science and Technology. The programme provides seed funding to technology business incubators so they can offer timely financial backing to innovative startups. By supporting early-stage ventures during product development, technology validation, and market entry, the initiative enables innovators to commercialise their technologies and achieve sustainable growth.
Benefits
- Up to ₹100 lakh financial seed support for deserving startups and entrepreneurs.
- Up to ₹1000 lakh maximum financial backing for eligible incubators and TBIs, disbursed in phased tranches.
- Funding can be utilised for product development, technology validation, scaling up, market entry, mentoring, and intellectual property rights.
Who can apply (eligibility)
- Open to entrepreneurs, startups, students, researchers, and innovators with innovative ideas or technologies.
- The applicant startup must be incubated with an eligible DST-recognised incubator or Technology Business Incubator (TBI).
Documents required
- Aadhaar Card or valid government-issued identity proof
- Startup Registration Certificate (if applicable)
- Business plan or project proposal
- Pitch deck
- Incubation certificate or recommendation letter from the incubator
How to apply
- 1Visit the official DST e-PMS Portal at onlinedst.gov.in.
- 2Click on 'New PI Registration' on the homepage.
- 3Create a unique Login ID using at least five alphanumeric characters.
- 4Enter required personal details including name, date of birth, gender, and identity proof.
- 5Select or add your institute, organisation, or startup along with its address.
- 6Provide your contact details including address, mobile number, and registered email address.
- 7Enter the captcha and submit the registration form.
- 8Open the verification link received on your registered email to generate your password and complete login setup.
Frequently asked questions
What is the maximum financial support available to a startup under NIDHI-SSP?+
A deserving startup can receive seed support of up to ₹100 lakh, subject to evaluation and approval by the participating incubator.
Can an individual innovator apply directly to the Department of Science and Technology?+
No, direct applications to the department are not accepted; applicants must apply through an eligible participating incubator or Technology Business Incubator.
How much financial support is provided to incubators under this scheme?+
Eligible incubators can receive maximum financial support of up to ₹1000 lakh, released in phases based on their requirements and capacity.
Can students and researchers apply for the NIDHI Seed Support Program?+
Yes, students and researchers with innovative ideas, technologies, or ventures are eligible to apply through participating incubators.
Is incubation mandatory to receive funding under NIDHI-SSP?+
Yes, the startup must be incubated with an eligible DST-recognised incubator or Technology Business Incubator.
NaukriZila is not a government website. Apply only on the official portal; never pay anyone to apply for a government scheme. Source: myScheme (Government of India)