NIDHI-PRAYAS: Fueling Hardware Innovation and Product Prototyping in India
Explore the NIDHI-PRAYAS grant for hardware startups. Learn about eligibility, funding amounts up to ₹10 Lakhs, and the application process for prototype develo
The National Initiative for Developing and Harnessing Innovations - Promoting and Accelerating Young and Aspiring technology entrepreneurs (NIDHI-PRAYAS) is a flagship scheme launched by the Department of Science and Technology (DST). It specifically addresses the 'valley of death' in product development by providing financial support to innovators for converting their ideas into tangible prototypes.
What is this scheme?
NIDHI-PRAYAS is a pre-incubation grant designed to support young innovators who have a proof-of-concept for a hardware-based product but lack the funds to build a functional prototype. The program is implemented through various PRAYAS Centres across India's premier incubators, offering both financial assistance and access to high-end laboratory infrastructure (PRAYAS Shala).
Who is eligible?
- Individual innovators or founders of a hardware startup.
- The applicant must be an Indian citizen.
- The innovator must be at least 18 years of age.
- If a startup is already incorporated, it must be less than 7 years old (as per DPIIT norms).
- The focus must be on physical products/hardware innovation (Software-only projects are generally not eligible).
- Students are eligible provided they are not receiving any other fellowship for the same idea.
How much money?
A maximum grant-in-aid of up to ₹10 Lakhs is provided per project for prototype development.
Documents needed
- Aadhar Card and Identity Proof of the applicant.
- Detailed Project Report (DPR) or Business Plan.
- Proof of Concept (Sketches, basic design, or preliminary data).
- Company Incorporation Certificate (if applicable).
- Passport-sized photographs.
- Undertaking stating no previous grant has been received for the same idea.
How to apply (step by step)
- Identify a PRAYAS Centre (DST-supported Incubator) nearest to you.
- Wait for the call for applications issued by the specific PRAYAS Centre.
- Submit the online application with technical details of the hardware prototype.
- Undergo a screening process by the local incubation committee.
- Present the idea/prototype design before a Project Management Committee (PMC).
- Upon selection, sign an agreement and receive the first tranche of the grant.
- Complete the prototype within the stipulated timeline (usually 12-18 months) at the PRAYAS Shala.
Important dates
| Event | Date |
|---|---|
| Application Cycle | Varies by PRAYAS Centre; usually announced twice a year. |
| Program Duration | Typically 12 to 18 months for prototype completion. |
Conclusion
NIDHI-PRAYAS is a game-changer for hardware entrepreneurs in India, bridging the critical gap between an idea and a market-ready product. By providing essential capital and infrastructure, it empowers innovators to take risks and build 'Made in India' technology solutions.
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