Startup India Seed Fund Scheme (SISFS)
A programme by AIC-BIMTECH
A scheme launched by DPIIT with an outlay of INR 945 Crore to support early-stage startups in proof of concept, prototype development, product trials, and market entry.
About Startup India Seed Fund Scheme (SISFS)
The Startup India Seed Fund Scheme (SISFS), launched by DPIIT under the Startup India initiative with an outlay of INR 945 Crore, supports startups in proof of concept, prototype development, product trials, and market entry. AIC-BIMTECH was selected under SISFS in 2021, with an allocation of INR 5 Crore to provide financial assistance and incubation support to 61 promising startups. The scheme aims to bridge the early-stage funding gap and strengthen startup ecosystems across Tier-II and Tier-III regions in India. It enables startups to develop Proof of Concept (PoC), build prototypes and pilot solutions, conduct product trials, enter the market and commercialize innovations, and scale impactful business solutions. Eligibility requires DPIIT-recognized startups incorporated within the last 2 years, with support limited to INR 10 Lakhs under other schemes. It is sector-agnostic. Funding includes grant support up to INR 20 Lakhs and investment support up to INR 50 Lakhs for commercialization and scaling, provided via Compulsorily Convertible Debentures (CCDs). Startups must obtain DPIIT Recognition, register on the SISFS portal, and apply to a DPIIT-recognized incubator.
Where to apply
Other AIC-BIMTECH programmes
- KhojA zero-equity virtual pre-incubation program for aspiring entrepreneurs to develop ideas into actionable business plans.
- PrarambhAn 8-week in-depth incubation program providing resources, mentorship, and support for product development, market strategy, and business operations.
- GurukulAn accelerator program for early revenue-generating startups focused on sales strengthening, operations optimization, and market expansion.
- UdaanA standalone funding program connecting entrepreneurs with multiple Venture Capital funds to raise growth capital.
- Stanford Seed SparkA five-months long online entrepreneurship program from Stanford Graduate School of Business and Stanford Seed for aspiring/early-stage founders.
- GENESIS Pilot Funding ProgramProvides pilot funding support of up to INR 40 Lakhs for startups to validate market-ready solutions through pilot deployments with industry giants.
- GENESIS Matching FundOffers 1:1 matching investment support of up to INR 50 Lakhs for startups from Tier-II & Tier-III cities that have raised institutional capital.
- ICDP (Integrated Corporate Development Program)Designed to help startups and corporations work together to drive innovation, offering training and consulting services.
- Master ClassConnects industry experts with learners through engaging online sessions, sharing insights, trends, and strategies.
- Seed AngelsAn initiative to connect early-stage startups with angel investors providing necessary seed capital.
- Startup SpotlightA showcase event where startups present their innovations to a curated audience of investors, corporates, and ecosystem partners.
- BaithakXUnites industry pioneers, entrepreneurs, mentors, and ecosystem enablers for networking and connections.