NIDHI-PRAYAS: Fueling Hardware Startups from Proof-of-Concept to Prototype
Discover how the NIDHI-PRAYAS grant supports hardware innovators with up to ₹10 Lakhs in funding to convert digital designs into physical prototypes.
The National Initiative for Developing and Harnessing Innovations (NIDHI) through its PRomoting and Accelerating Young and Aspiring technology entrepreneurs (PRAYAS) program represents the Department of Science and Technology's commitment to building a robust hardware ecosystem in India. Designed to bridge the gap between a mere idea and a functional prototype, this scheme provides the necessary financial and technical support to reduce risk for innovators.
What is this scheme?
NIDHI-PRAYAS is a specialized grant-in-aid program focused on supporting tech-based hardware startups. The scheme operates through PRAYAS Centers (PC) located within established incubators across India. It aims to provide innovators a platform to build, test, and refine their physical products without the immediate pressure of commercialization or equity dilution at the ideation stage.
Who is eligible?
- Individual innovators or founders of a hardware startup in the early stages
- Must be an Indian citizen with age above 18 years
- Projects must be in the hardware or manufacturing sector (Software-only projects are excluded)
- The applicant must not have received similar funding for the same prototype previously
- Innovators must be associated with or ready to be incubated at a PRAYAS Center
- Startups must not have crossed 7 years from the date of incorporation
How much money?
A grant-in-aid of up to ₹10,00,000 (Ten Lakhs) per innovator for prototype development.
Documents needed
- Aadhar Card of the individual/founder
- Detailed Project Report (DPR) explaining the technical feasibility and milestones
- Proof of age and citizenship
- Company Incorporation Certificate (if applicable)
- Proposed budget breakdown for the prototype development
- Declaration of not receiving other government grants for same idea
How to apply (step by step)
- Identify a nearby PRAYAS Center (Incubator) that is accepting applications
- Submit a formal application through the specific PRAYAS Center's portal or DST link
- Screening of applications by the PRAYAS Management Committee (PMC)
- Shortlisted candidates present their project to a selection committee
- Upon selection, sign an agreement with the Host Institute/PRAYAS Center
- Receive funds in milestones based on technical progress and utilization
- Utilize the incubator's Fab Lab or maker space for product development
Important dates
| Event | Date |
|---|---|
| Call for Applications | Varies by PRAYAS Center; typically twice a year |
| Latest Guidelines Date | As per latest notification, verify on official portal |
Conclusion
The NIDHI-PRAYAS grant is a critical lifeline for hardware entrepreneurs who often face high entry barriers due to R&D costs. By providing equity-free funding and access to state-of-the-art labs, DST is ensuring that India's manufacturing future remains bright and innovation-led.
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