NIDHI-PRAYAS: A Step-by-Step Guide to the Hardware Product Innovation Grant
Learn about the NIDHI-PRAYAS grant for hardware startups. Discover eligibility, funding amounts, application processes, and how to turn your prototype into a pr
The National Initiative for Developing and Harnessing Innovations - Promoting and Accelerating Young and ASPiring innovators (NIDHI-PRAYAS) is a flagship scheme launched by the Department of Science and Technology (DST). It specifically addresses the 'gap' between a creative idea and a prototype, providing much-needed financial support to hardware-based startups in India.
What is this scheme?
NIDHI-PRAYAS is a pre-incubation program that provides grants to young innovators to turn their ideas into proof-of-concept and prototypes. The program is implemented through various PRAYAS Centres (PCs) across India, which are typically hosted within Technology Business Incubators (TBIs). It focuses on physical product development rather than software-only solutions.
Who is eligible?
- An individual innovator or a start-up founder with a hardware-based idea.
- The applicant must be a citizen of India.
- The innovator must be at least 18 years old.
- For students, a letter of support from the head of the institution is required.
- Startup entities must not have exceeded 7 years from the date of incorporation.
- The project must involve a physical product (hardware) development.
- The innovator must be willing to work at a PRAYAS Centre incubator.
How much money?
The grant provides a maximum financial support of up to ₹10 Lakhs per innovator or startup for prototyping activities.
Documents needed
- Aadhar Card of the applicant
- Company Registration Certificate (if applicable)
- Proposed Project Plan and Prototype Budget
- Educational qualification certificates
- Proof of address
- Support letter from Incubator or Academic Institution
How to apply (step by step)
- Identify an authorized PRAYAS Centre (Incubator) that is currently accepting applications.
- Prepare a detailed proposal highlighting the innovation, problem statement, and technical feasibility.
- Submit the application through the specific PRAYAS Centre's official portal or the DST NIDHI portal.
- Attend the screening committee meeting to present the idea and prototype plan.
- Upon selection, sign an agreement with the PRAYAS Centre.
- Receive the grant in installments based on project milestones.
- Utilize the incubator's lab facilities to complete the prototype within 12 to 18 months.
Important dates
| Event | Date |
|---|---|
| Call for Applications | Occurs periodically; varies by PRAYAS Centre |
| Project Duration | Typically 12 to 18 months for prototype completion |
| Last Date to Apply | As per latest notification, verify on official portal of the respective incubator |
Conclusion
NIDHI-PRAYAS serves as a vital bridge for hardware innovators who often struggle to find early-stage funding. By providing both financial aid and access to fabrication labs, the scheme empowers Indian entrepreneurs to build tangible solutions for local and global challenges. If you have a physical product idea, NIDHI-PRAYAS is the ideal platform to kickstart your journey.
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