NIDHI-PRAYAS: Fueling Hardware Innovations with Idea-to-Prototype Support
Learn about the NIDHI-PRAYAS scheme providing grants up to ₹10 Lakhs for hardware innovators to convert ideas into prototypes. Know eligibility, steps, and bene
The National Initiative for Developing and Harnessing Innovations (NIDHI) - Promoting and Accelerating Young and ASPiring innovators & startups (PRAYAS) is a flagship program by the Department of Science and Technology (DST). It is specifically designed to bridge the gap between a 'proof of concept' and a 'prototype' for hardware-based technology startups in India.
What is this scheme?
NIDHI-PRAYAS is a pre-incubation program that provides financial assistance to young innovators who have a creative idea but lack the funds to build a physical prototype. The program is implemented through PRAYAS Centres (PCs) located across recognized incubators in India, providing not just funding but also access to fabrication labs (PRAYAS SHALA) and technical mentorship.
Who is eligible?
- Individual innovators or startups with a hardware-based product idea.
- The applicant must be an Indian citizen.
- In the case of a startup, the founders should hold at least 51% shareholding.
- Innovators must be above 18 years of age.
- The idea should have a core focus on technology and hardware innovation (apps/software-only models are generally not covered).
- Innovators should be associated with or ready to be incubated at a PRAYAS Centre.
How much money?
A grant-in-aid of up to ₹10 Lakhs is provided to the innovator for building the prototype.
Documents needed
- Aadhaar card of the primary applicant
- Detailed Project Report (DPR) explaining the prototype plan
- Budget breakdown for the requested grant
- Proof of educational qualifications
- Startup registration certificate (if applying as a company)
- Declaration of no other concurrent central government funding for the same prototype
How to apply (step by step)
- Identify a PRAYAS Centre (PC) near you from the list of DST-approved incubators.
- Wait for the call for applications issued by the specific PRAYAS Centre.
- Submit the online application form with the conceptual details of the hardware product.
- Attend the screening process and present the idea before the PRAYAS Monitoring Committee (PMC).
- If selected, sign the agreement with the host incubator.
- Utilize the funds and Fab Lab facilities to develop the prototype within the stipulated timeframe (usually 12-18 months).
Important dates
| Event | Date |
|---|---|
| Call for Applications | Occurs periodically per PRAYAS Centre; check the individual incubator website for current cycles. |
| Project Duration | Typically 12 to 18 months for prototype completion. |
Conclusion
The NIDHI-PRAYAS scheme is a cornerstone for the 'Make in India' and 'Startup India' initiatives. By removing the initial financial barrier to prototyping, it empowers hardware innovators to take the first step toward commercialization. If you have a hardware idea that could solve a real-world problem, NIDHI-PRAYAS is the ideal launchpad.
Comments (0)
Sign up to join the conversation.