NIDHI-PRAYAS Grant: Secure Up to ₹10 Lakh for Hardware Product Prototyping
Learn about the NIDHI-PRAYAS scheme offering hardware startups a grant of up to ₹10 Lakh for prototyping. Check eligibility, benefits, and how to apply.
The National Initiative for Developing and Harnessing Innovations (NIDHI) Promotion and Acceleration of Young and Aspiring technology entrepreneurs (PRAYAS) is a flagship program under the Department of Science and Technology (DST). It focuses on addressing the funding gap between an innovative idea and a market-ready prototype, specifically for hardware-based innovations in India.
What is this scheme?
NIDHI-PRAYAS is a 'Proof-of-Concept' grant designed to support young innovators in turning their mechanical or hardware ideas into physical prototypes. The grant providing agency (PRAYAS Centre) offers not just financial assistance but also infrastructure and lab facilities to help startups minimize risks before entering the commercialization phase.
Who is eligible?
- The applicant must be an individual innovator or a founder of a start-up.
- The start-up should not be older than 7 years at the time of application.
- The innovation must be a physical product (hardware-based), not pure software or an app.
- As per latest notification, verify on official portal regarding the minimum shareholding requirement for Indian founders (typically 51%).
- The innovator must be an Indian Citizen with age above 18 years.
- Student applicants must have a faculty mentor.
How much money?
A grant of up to ₹10 Lakh per project for prototyping expenses.
Documents needed
- Aadhaar Card and PAN Card of the applicant
- Detailed Project Report (DPR) or Prototyping Plan
- Company Registration Certificate (if applicable)
- Photographs or 3D designs of the current stage of innovation
- Bank account details and cancelled cheque
- Letter of recommendation or Support from a PRAYAS Centre
How to apply (step by step)
- Identify a DST-supported PRAYAS Centre (usually situated in TBI or IIT/NIT incubators).
- Visit the official NIDHI-PRAYAS portal or the specific incubator's website to check for open calls.
- Submit a detailed application outlining the problem statement, proposed hardware solution, and budget requirement.
- Appear for a screening committee presentation to pitch the technical feasibility of the prototype.
- Upon selection, sign an agreement with the PRAYAS Centre for fund disbursement and milestone tracking.
- Utilize the grant for raw materials, fabrication, 3D printing, and testing within the stipulated period (usually 12-18 months).
Important dates
| Event | Date |
|---|---|
| Application Cycle | Varies by PRAYAS Centre; usually 2-3 times a year |
| Program Duration | 12 to 18 months for prototype completion |
Conclusion
The NIDHI-PRAYAS scheme serves as a crucial bridge for Indian hardware entrepreneurs who often struggle with high initial R&D costs. By providing both capital and access to high-end labs, the DST ensures that bright technological ideas don't fade away due to lack of resources. If you have a hardware innovation that can solve real-world problems, NIDHI-PRAYAS is the ideal program to build your first version.
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