What kind of funding does NIDHI-SSS provide?

NIDHI-SSS offers a mix of seed funding which can include grants, convertible loans, soft loans, or equity, provided as per DST guidelines to help startups achieve commercialisation.

Who is eligible to apply for NIDHI-SSS at RIIDL?

Eligible applicants are early-stage, innovation- and technology-driven companies registered in India. They must have been associated with RIIDL's incubation program (resident or virtual) for at least 3 months and demonstrate a clear Unique Selling Proposition. Indian promoters must hold at least 51% shareholding.

Are startups that have previously received government funding eligible?

Startups that have not availed any funding from Government of India or State Government bodies will be given preference, but prior funding from other sources may be allowed. It is not an outright exclusion.

What can the NIDHI-SSS funds be used for?

The seed support can be utilized for product development, testing, trials, market launch activities, manpower costs, professional services, raw material procurement, and other operational needs necessary to scale the business.

How do I apply for the NIDHI-SSS program?

First, your startup must be associated with RIIDL's incubation program for a minimum of 3 months. Once incubated, you can apply for the NIDHI-SSS seed support round through the designated RIIDL application form, typically an online form like the Airtable link provided.

What is the selection process like?

Applications are initially reviewed by RIIDL's internal team. Subsequently, an external Seed Management Committee (SMC), constituted under DST guidelines, evaluates the shortlisted startups. Final selections are made based on the SMC's recommendations.

NIDHI-Seed Support System (NIDHI-SSS) at RIIDL (2026)

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Provider

RIIDL, Somaiya Vidyavihar University

Mumbai · Maharashtra · India

Research Innovation Incubation Design Lab (RIIDL) was established in 2010 by Somaiya Vidyavihar on its Mumbai campus to drive innovation and entrepreneurship. It is registered as a Section 8 not-for-profit company with over 20,000 sq ft of incubation space, and is supported by…

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Join RIIDL Incubation
Startups must first join and complete at least 3 months in RIIDL's incubation program (resident or virtual).
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The NIDHI-Seed Support System (NIDHI-SSS) at RIIDL (Research Innovation Incubation Design Labs) is a crucial initiative under the Government of India's Department of Science & Technology (DST) and its National Initiative for Developing and Harnessing Innovations (NIDHI) scheme. This program is specifically designed to offer essential seed funding to early-stage, innovation- and technology-driven startups. These startups must be incubated within DST-recognised incubators, with RIIDL serving as one such host and the direct disbursing entity for this support.

The primary objective of NIDHI-SSS is to help promising startups navigate the perilous 'valley of death' – the critical phase between achieving initial proof-of-concept and successfully bringing their innovations to commercialisation. This funding is flexible, typically offered as a blend of grant, convertible loan, soft loan, and/or equity, tailored to the specific needs and stage of the startup, all in accordance with DST guidelines.

Startups can leverage this seed support for a wide array of vital activities. This includes product development and refinement, rigorous testing and trials to ensure market readiness, initial market launch activities, covering essential manpower costs, engaging professional services, acquiring raw materials, and addressing other critical operational needs during their formative growth period. By providing this timely financial and strategic support, NIDHI-SSS at RIIDL aims to significantly enhance the survival rates and growth trajectories of innovative Indian startups, fostering a vibrant ecosystem of technological entrepreneurship.

The NIDHI-SSS program at RIIDL offers critical seed funding to bridge the gap between proof-of-concept and commercialisation. This support can be provided as a grant, convertible loan, soft loan, or equity, depending on the startup's stage and needs, as per DST guidelines. Beyond direct capital, startups receive comprehensive incubation support, including guidance for product development, assistance with testing and trials, and strategic advice for market launch. The funds can be utilized for manpower, professional services, raw materials, and other essential operational expenses. Additionally, being part of RIIDL's incubator provides access to a network of mentors, potential investors, and market opportunities, fostering overall business growth and sustainability.

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NIDHI-Seed Support System (NIDHI-SSS) at RIIDL

NIDHI-Seed Support System (NIDHI-SSS) at RIIDL

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