Next Generation Incubation Scheme (NGIS)

NGIS is the incubation scheme MeitY entrusted to STPI to implement. It runs from twelve STPI centres in Tier-II cities: Agartala, Bhilai, Bhopal, Bhubaneswar, Dehradun, Guwahati, Jaipur, Lucknow, Prayagraj, Mohali, Patna and Vijayawada. You do not apply to it directly; you get in by entering a CHUNAUTI challenge when a call is open. STPI describes the scheme as taking a startup from idea to prototype, prototype to a minimum viable product, and on to going to market.

What you get

• Ready-to-work plug-and-play space, with five to ten seats per startup, high-speed internet and round-the-clock security
• A dedicated product testing facility and access to the software product security testing setup
• Technical and business mentoring, workshops, seminars and trainings, plus need-based sessions on legal, compliance, branding and cyber security
• Continuous monitoring and periodic review by a dedicated manager
• Seed support for selected startups, and a monthly stipend for teams taken on the pre-incubation route
• Cloud credits from third-party providers
• Patent drafting and filing, trademark and copyright support through STPI's arrangement with NRDC
• Access to investors and go-to-market support at national and international events

Who can apply

• Indian startups working in software product development, including embedded electronics
• Registered or incorporated within the last ten years as on the date the challenge opens
• Annual turnover within the DPIIT ceiling for every financial year since incorporation
• Not formed by splitting up or reconstructing an existing business
• Working on innovation or improvement of a product, process or service, or on a scalable business model with high potential for employment or wealth creation
• DPIIT-recognised startups are encouraged. Individual academicians, researchers, educators and entrepreneurs, partnership firms and LLPs may also apply, but must register as a private limited company within a stipulated time, preferably three months, if selected

How selection works: through an All India Start-up Challenge or hackathon under the CHUNAUTI banner, run per location.

How to apply: watch the NGIS portal for an open CHUNAUTI call and apply on that challenge's page. Questions go to STPI's Startup-PMU inbox, startup.pmu@stpi.in. Startups pay designated charges for NGIS services, have to operate from a designated STPI incubation facility, and may have to offer equity to STPI as decided by the designated authority.