STBI Growth Fund Grant-in-Aid 2026
By Savli Technology and Business Incubator (STBI)
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Quick Answer
Non-repayable, milestone-based grant up to ₹30 lakh for early-stage science & technology startups incorporated in Gujarat, focusing on technology validation and IP creation.
- Funding amount
- Up to ₹30L
- Funding type
- Grant
- Application deadline
- 11d — 24 Nov 2026
- Location
- Gujarat
- Registrations needed
- DPIIT recognition, Private Limited company registration
About this grant
The G₹OWTH Fund (Gujarat Raising Opportunities & Worth through Technology Harnessing Fund) is a flagship scheme initiated by the Savli Technology & Business Incubator (STBI), under the Department of Science & Technology, Government of Gujarat. This fund is strategically designed to bolster science and technology-driven startups, including deep-tech ventures, as they navigate the critical 'Valley of Death' during technology validation and commercialisation phases. This specific entry focuses on the Grant-in-Aid component, which is tailored for very early-stage innovations.
The Grant-in-Aid offers crucial non-repayable, milestone-based financial support, up to ₹30 lakh per startup. This funding is aimed at facilitating essential activities such as proof-of-concept validation, prototype development, product refinement, rigorous testing and validation, intellectual property creation and protection, and preparation for regulatory approvals. It also supports early field or clinical studies and pilot deployments, along with other related activities vital for bringing a technology from an early idea (TRL 1) to a validated prototype (TRL 4). This component helps startups de-risk their technology and build a solid foundation before seeking larger seed investments or market entry.
Eligibility
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Full eligibility criteria — entity type, stage, sector, founder profile and registration requirements — plus your fit for this program. Sign up to view.
Grant providers
Savli Technology and Business Incubator (STBI) is a technology business incubator run by the Department of Science and Technology, Government of Gujarat (DST-GoG). It sits inside the GIDC industrial estate at Savli, Manjusar, on the outskirts of Vadodara, and works mainly with…
Learn moreBenefits & Funding
- Amount
- Up to ₹30L
- Fund type
- Grant
- Equity
- Equity-free
- Repayment
- Non-repayable
What You Get
The Grant-in-Aid component provides up to ₹30 lakh in non-repayable, milestone-based funding. This financial support is designed to cover critical early-stage activities such as proof-of-concept validation, prototype development, product refinement, and extensive testing and validation. Beyond direct funding, selected startups also benefit from incubation support, access to expert mentorship, assistance with intellectual property creation and protection, and guidance on regulatory preparation. The program also facilitates access to necessary lab infrastructure for technology development and helps navigate complex regulatory landscapes, ensuring a comprehensive support system for deep-tech innovations.
- Disbursement
- Milestone Based
- Bootstrap friendly
- Yes
Timelines & Process
Selection Process
Applications for the Grant-in-Aid are reviewed by a dedicated selection committee comprising experts from STBI, the Department of Science & Technology, and industry specialists. The evaluation focuses on the technological innovation, market potential, feasibility of the proposed milestones (TRL 1-4 activities), and the team's capabilities. Shortlisted startups may be invited for presentations or interviews to further elaborate on their projects and address any queries from the committee. The final selection is based on a holistic assessment of the project's alignment with the fund's objectives and its potential to achieve the stated milestones.
How to apply
Four steps from draft to disbursement — one action each.
- 1
Draft your application
Answer the form inside the grant tracker — AI drafts each response using your past answers, so you're not starting from a blank page.
- 2
Submit on the official portal
Use the official application link and verify all details before final submission.
- 3
Follow up
Reach out 5–7 days after submitting to confirm receipt and ask about the review timeline.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the maximum funding available under the Grant-in-Aid?
Startups can receive a non-repayable grant of up to ₹30 lakh under this component of the G₹OWTH Fund.
Which stages of startups are eligible for the Grant-in-Aid?
This grant is specifically targeted at early-stage science and technology startups, generally those in Technology Readiness Levels (TRL) 1-4, focusing on ideation, proof-of-concept, and prototype development.
What are the key eligibility criteria for this grant?
Eligible startups must be DPIIT-recognised, incorporated in Gujarat as a Private Limited Company or LLP, less than 10 years old, have not received grants over ₹30 lakh in the last 3 years, and have cumulative revenue (including grants) not exceeding ₹1 crore in the last 3 years. Indian promoters must hold at least 51% ownership and control.
Is this grant repayable or does it require equity?
No, the Grant-in-Aid is explicitly non-repayable and does not require the startup to give up any equity.
Can I apply if I have received other government grants?
Yes, but milestones already funded through other Central/State Government or PSU schemes are not eligible for this grant. Distinct, previously unfunded milestones may be considered, and total grants received in the last 3 years must not exceed ₹30 lakh.
Sources
Data on this page is compiled from official program and provider references.
