NIDHI-PRAYAS

The Department of Science and Technology's pre-incubation grant for turning an early idea into a working prototype, run through VentureStudio's fabrication shop. Its page currently says VentureStudio is not accepting applications and to check back, so treat this as between intakes.

What you get

• A prototype grant to build the idea into something physical
• Access to the Prayas Shala fabrication shop
• Business mentoring from an early stage, plus coworking space, labs, libraries and technical expertise
• Networking and participation in startup events

Who can apply

• Individual innovators: Indian citizens aged 18 or over with proof of nationality, with a named lead applicant where it is a team
• Startups: incorporated in India, under seven years old, at least 51 per cent Indian-held, with no significant revenue and turnover that has stayed under the scheme's ceiling
• The project must be a physical product you can prototype within twelve months, with the intellectual property vesting in you or your company
• A no-objection certificate is needed from your employer or institute if you are working or studying, and for any institutional IP you use
• Not for scaling, marketing or manufacturing, and not for anyone already carrying significant government support for the same idea or support under another Department of Science and Technology scheme

How selection works: proposals are screened for feasibility, innovation and relevance, shortlisted applicants pitch to a jury, and selected innovators sign agreements, plan milestones with the team and draw funds in tranches as each is completed, under a monitoring committee.

How to apply: applications are closed at present. Ask vs@ahduni.edu.in to be told when the next call opens.