DST NIDHI Seed Support Program (NIDHI-SSP) – PDEU Innovation & Incubation Center
Under NIDHI-SSP (Seed Support Program) by Pandit Deendayal Energy University
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Quick Answer
Equity-based seed funding up to ₹1 Crore, with mentoring and incubation, for technology startups through NIDHI SSP at PDEU Innovation & Incubation Center.
- Funding amount
- ₹25 Lakhs – ₹1 Cr
- Funding type
- Equity
- Application deadline
- Rolling
- Location
- Open to startups registered in India
About this funding program
Technology startups can get equity-based seed funding up to ₹1 Crore (INR 100 Lakhs) through the NIDHI Seed Support Program (NIDHI SSP) at PDEU Innovation & Incubation Center. The average ticket size is approximately ₹25 Lakhs. Funding is released in tranches linked to approved milestones. It covers proof of concept, prototype development, product trials, market entry and initial commercialization. The scheme comes from the National Science & Technology Entrepreneurship Development Board (NSTEDB), under the Department of Science & Technology, Government of India, and PDEU IIC is the implementing partner.
You also get business mentoring, strategic guidance and access to the PDEU IIC ecosystem.
Indian-registered private limited companies can apply, particularly those incubated for at least three months at PDEU IIC. You must show a strong Unique Selling Proposition and customer value. DPIIT registration is preferred but not mandatory. Indian promoters must hold at least 51% shareholding. Foreign companies, Indian subsidiaries of MNCs and startups that already received NIDHI SSP funding from any incubator are excluded. Ventures that have not yet secured funding from other government sources are preferred.
Eligibility
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Full eligibility criteria — entity type, stage, sector, founder profile and registration requirements — plus your fit for this program. Sign up to view.
Funding providers
Benefits & Funding
- Amount
- ₹25 Lakhs – ₹1 Cr
What You Get
This program offers seed funding up to ₹1 Crore (INR 100 Lakhs), with an average investment ticket size of approximately ₹25 Lakhs. The funding is disbursed in tranches, linked to the achievement of approved milestones. This financial support is specifically designed to cover critical stages such as proof of concept, prototype development, product trials, market entry strategies, and initial commercialization efforts. Beyond capital, selected startups benefit from in-depth business mentoring and strategic guidance from experienced advisors. They also gain invaluable access to the extensive PDEU Innovation & Incubation Center ecosystem, fostering networking opportunities and collaborative growth within a supportive environment.
- Disbursement
- Milestone Based
Timelines & Process
Applications
Rolling basis
Selection Process
The selection process for the NIDHI Seed Support Program at PDEU IIC involves a rigorous, multi-stage evaluation designed to identify high-potential technology startups. Initially, submitted applications undergo an eligibility screening to confirm adherence to the fundamental criteria, such as Indian registration and promoter shareholding. Following this, a comprehensive technical and business evaluation is conducted by a panel of subject matter experts and business mentors. This stage scrutinizes the startup's innovation, market potential, financial viability, and the strength of its team. Finally, selected startups proceed to an Investment Committee review, where they may be invited to present their ventures. The committee makes the final funding decisions, considering all aspects of the startup's proposal and potential for impact.
Application Process
- 1
Apply Online
Submit your startup's details and proposal through the official online application form.
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How to apply
Four steps from draft to disbursement — one action each.
- 1
Draft your application
Answer the form inside the grant tracker — AI drafts each response using your past answers, so you're not starting from a blank page.
- 2
See the questions before you start
Download every question this programme's application form asks, so you can prepare your answers offline before opening the portal.
- 3
Line up your documents
Keep every document from the checklist ready in one folder. Missing docs are the #1 reason applications get bounced.
- 4
Submit on the official portal
Use the official application link and verify all details before final submission.
- 5
Follow up
Reach out 5–7 days after submitting to confirm receipt and ask about the review timeline.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the maximum funding available?
Startups can receive up to ₹1 Crore (INR 100 Lakhs) in seed funding.
What is the typical investment ticket size?
The average investment ticket size for this program is approximately ₹25 Lakhs.
Is this an equity-free grant?
No, this program provides equity-based seed funding.
Who is eligible to apply for this program?
The program is open to Private Limited companies registered in India, with at least 51% Indian promoter shareholding, and a minimum of three months of incubation at PDEU IIC. Foreign subsidiaries are not eligible.
Are startups that have previously received government funding eligible?
While eligible, preference is given to startups that have not received prior funding from Government of India or State Government bodies. Startups that have already received NIDHI SSP support from any other incubator are strictly not eligible.
What kind of support is provided beyond funding?
In addition to financial assistance, startups receive business mentoring, strategic guidance, and access to the extensive PDEU Innovation & Incubation Center ecosystem and network of mentors.
Sources
Data on this page is compiled from official program and provider references.
