NIDHI-PRAYAS Grant: Scale Your Hardware Start-up with Up to ₹10 Lakhs
Learn how the NIDHI PRAYAS scheme supports hardware entrepreneurs with a ₹10 lakh grant for prototyping and innovation. Check eligibility and how to apply.
The National Initiative for Developing and Harnessing Innovations (NIDHI) through its PRomoting and Accelerating Young and Aspiring technology entrepreneurs (PRAYAS) program represents a significant move by the Department of Science and Technology (DST) to bridge the gap between an innovative idea and a market-ready prototype. Recognizing the high risks and capital intensity of hardware-based innovation, NIDHI-PRAYAS provides crucial grant support to turn creative concepts into tangible products.
What is this scheme?
NIDHI-PRAYAS is a specialized 'Proof-of-Concept' grant aimed at young and aspiring innovators. The scheme is designed to help innovators build digital or physical prototypes via PRAYAS Centres (Incubators), providing both financial assistance and physical infrastructure (PRAYAS Shala) to experiment and refine hardware solutions before they seek larger venture capital or commercial loans.
Who is eligible?
- An individual innovator or a start-up founder with a hardware-based product idea.
- Indian citizens with a minimum age of 18 years.
- Student innovators can apply, provided their institution allows them to work on the project.
- Start-ups must not have exceeded 7 years from the date of incorporation.
- The innovator must be willing to work at a designated PRAYAS Centre for the duration of the project.
- Innovators who have already received similar prototype grants from other government sources for the same idea may be ineligible.
How much money?
A grant-in-aid of up to ₹10 lakhs per innovator for prototyping expenses.
Documents needed
- A detailed project proposal focusing on the hardware innovation.
- Identity proof (Aadhaar Card, PAN Card).
- Proof of age.
- Company Incorporation Certificate (if applying as a start-up).
- Educational qualification certificates.
- Proposed budget breakup for the prototype development.
- IP ownership declaration or NOC from the previous employer/institution.
How to apply (step by step)
- Identify a nearby DST-supported PRAYAS Centre (Incubator) that is currently accepting applications.
- Prepare a comprehensive pitch deck and a technical document highlighting the 'Proof of Concept' stage.
- Submit the online application through the specific PRAYAS Centre's portal or the central NIDHI portal as directed.
- Undergo a screening process by the PRAYAS Management Committee (PMC) which involves a presentation/interview.
- If selected, sign an agreement with the host PRAYAS Centre.
- Utilize the funds and PRAYAS Shala facilities to develop the prototype within the stipulated timeline (usually 12-18 months).
Important dates
| Event | Date |
|---|---|
| Application Cycle | Varies by PRAYAS Centre; usually announced 1-2 times per year. |
| Project Duration | Typically 12 to 18 months from the date of first installment. |
Conclusion
NIDHI-PRAYAS is a game-changer for hardware entrepreneurs in India, offering the financial cushion needed to fail fast, iterate, and eventually succeed. By lowering the entry barrier for physical product development, it empowers engineers and students to transform their lab projects into commercial realities. If you have a hardware idea that solves a real-world problem, NIDHI-PRAYAS is your ideal starting point.
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