NIDHI-SSP (National Initiative for Developing and Harnessing Innovations - Seed Support Program) is a Department of Science and Technology (DST) initiative, facilitated by CIBA, offering seed funding and incubation support to technology-driven startups.

What kind of funding is provided?

The program provides seed funding ranging from ₹10 Lakhs to ₹50 Lakhs, structured as Convertible Compulsory Debentures (CCD).

What are the key eligibility criteria for startups?

Eligible startups must be registered Private Limited companies, possess a working prototype (TRL 4+), and be at the Go-To-Market (GTM) stage with a technology-driven innovative solution. Preference is given to Maharashtra-based startups.

What stages of startups does NIDHI-SSP support?

NIDHI-SSP primarily supports startups at the Product (MVP/prototype) and Revenue (Go-To-Market) stages, aiming to help them scale and become investment or market ready.

What kind of support does CIBA provide?

Beyond seed funding, CIBA offers a 2-year incubation program, including mentorship, access to networks, guidance on product development, IPR, licenses, certifications, and manpower support.

Is there a specific industry focus for NIDHI-SSP?

The program is open to technology-driven startups, with a particular emphasis on Deep Tech innovations (TRL 4+).

NIDHI Seed Support Program (NIDHI-SSP) by CIBA – Up to ₹50 Lakhs

The National Initiative for Developing and Harnessing Innovations (NIDHI) Seed Support Program (NIDHI-SSP), facilitated by CIBA, is a pivotal program designed to propel technology-driven startups from innovative concepts to successful commercial ventures. Backed by the Department of Science and Technology (DST), Government of India, NIDHI-SSP provides crucial seed funding and comprehensive incubation support tailored for startups at the Go-To-Market (GTM) stage. The program aims to bridge the critical gap between product development and market penetration, ensuring that promising innovations achieve market readiness and attract further investment. This 2-year program focuses on helping startups scale effectively, refine their business models, and navigate the complexities of intellectual property, regulatory compliance, and market access. Through strategic financial backing and a robust support ecosystem, NIDHI-SSP at CIBA empowers deep tech startups to transform their working prototypes into viable, scalable businesses, contributing significantly to India's innovation landscape.

The selection process for NIDHI-SSP is rigorous and designed to identify high-potential technology-driven startups. Applications undergo an initial screening phase by the CIBA team and experts to ensure all eligibility criteria are met and to assess the innovative merit of the solution. Shortlisted candidates are then invited for a detailed review, which may include one-on-one interviews or a pitching session before a distinguished panel of industry experts, investors, and representatives from CIBA and DST. The evaluation criteria will typically focus on the technological innovation, market potential and size, team strength and execution capability, business model viability, and the potential for social or economic impact. Successful applicants demonstrate a clear path to commercialization and a strong need for the seed funding and incubation support offered by the program.

Recipients of the NIDHI-SSP will receive ₹10 Lakhs to ₹50 Lakhs in seed funding, structured as Convertible Compulsory Debentures (CCD). This non-dilutive financing in the initial stages allows startups to focus on critical development and market entry activities without immediate equity dilution. Beyond financial support, the program offers a comprehensive 2-year incubation journey at CIBA, providing dedicated mentorship, access to expert networks, and strategic guidance on product development, pilot execution, and Go-To-Market strategies. Startups also benefit from specialized assistance with Intellectual Property Rights (IPR) filing, obtaining necessary licenses and certifications, and general operational and manpower support to build strong, sustainable businesses ready for subsequent funding rounds and market expansion.

NIDHI Seed Support Program (NIDHI-SSP) by CIBA

NIDHI Seed Support Program (NIDHI-SSP) by CIBA

Funding providers

Am I likely to win this grant — and why?

Application Process

How to apply

Sources

Grants closing soon

Competitions closing soon

Equity closing soon

Debt programs

Subsidies

Frequently Asked Questions

About this funding program

Eligibility

Timelines & Process

Benefits & Funding

Grants closing soon

Competitions closing soon

Equity closing soon

Debt programs

Subsidies

Startup Software Credits

Notion

Tome

DigitalOcean

Microsoft

IBM

Mixpanel

Huawei

Google

Vultr

Akamai Technologies

Razorpay

Datadog