NIDHI-PRAYAS Scheme: Rs 10 Lakh Grant for Hardware Startups and Innovators
Explore the NIDHI-PRAYAS scheme by DST, offering up to Rs 10 lakh in grants for hardware startups to convert ideas into prototypes. Eligibility, steps, and bene
The National Initiative for Developing and Harnessing Innovations - Promoting and Accelerating Young and Aspiring technology entrepreneurs (NIDHI-PRAYAS) is a flagship program under the Department of Science and Technology (DST). It specifically targets high-potential hardware product innovations, providing the financial runway needed to bridge the gap between a proof-of-concept and a market-ready prototype.
What is this scheme?
NIDHI-PRAYAS is a pre-incubation grant designed to support young innovators by providing financial assistance and access to 'PRAYAS Centres' (Fab Labs). The primary focus is on hardware-based solutions, allowing founders to experiment, fail fast, and build physical prototypes without the immediate pressure of seeking equity investment.
Who is eligible?
- Individual innovators or start-up founders with a scalable technical idea.
- Must be a citizen of India with a valid government ID.
- The innovator must be at least 18 years of age.
- The idea must be hardware-based; pure software or service-based apps are generally not eligible.
- The applicant should not have received similar prototyping grants for the same idea from other government bodies.
- Individual innovators must be incubated at a PRAYAS Centre during the grant period.
How much money?
A maximum grant up to Rs 10 lakh is provided to the innovator for prototyping requirements.
Documents needed
- Aadhaar Card or Indian Passport
- Detailed Project Report (DPR) or Prototyping Plan
- Proof of Incubation (or application to a PRAYAS Centre)
- Bank Account Details (linked to Aadhaar)
- Caste Certificate (if applicable for specific category records)
- Intellectual Property (IP) declaration forms
How to apply (step by step)
- Identify and choose a DST-supported PRAYAS Centre (Host Institute) nearby.
- Monitor the official portal of the chosen PRAYAS Centre for open calls for applications.
- Submit the online application form with the technical details of the prototype.
- Attend the screening committee meeting or pitch deck presentation if shortlisted.
- Upon selection, sign the agreement with the PRAYAS Centre to receive the first installment of the grant.
- Utilize the funds and the technical lab facilities to build the prototype within 12-18 months.
Important dates
| Event | Date |
|---|---|
| Application Cycle | Varies by PRAYAS Centre; usually announced twice a year. |
| Program Duration | Maximum of 18 months for prototype completion. |
Conclusion
NIDHI-PRAYAS is a game-changer for India's hardware ecosystem, removing the financial barriers that often stall physical product development. By providing both capital and lab access, it empowers the next generation of engineers to turn 'Make in India' visions into reality. Aspiring founders should keep their documentation ready and stay updated with the nearest PRAYAS Centre's notifications.
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