NIDHI-PRAYAS Scheme: Get up to ₹10 Lakh Grant for Hardware Startups
Learn about the NIDHI-PRAYAS scheme for hardware product startups. Check eligibility, grant amount, and how to apply for the Promoting and Accelerating Young an
The NIDHI-PRAYAS (Promoting and Accelerating Young and Aspiring technology entrepreneurs) scheme is a flagship initiative under the Department of Science and Technology (DST). It focuses on filling the funding gap between an idea and a prototype, specifically targeting hardware-based innovations in the Indian startup ecosystem.
What is this scheme?
NIDHI-PRAYAS acts as a pre-incubation support system. It provides financial assistance to innovators to build prototypes of their ideas, allowing them to test their concepts before reaching the commercialization stage. The program is implemented through PRAYAS Centres (PCs) located across various technology business incubators in India.
Who is eligible?
- An individual innovator or a start-up incorporated not more than 2 years ago.
- The applicant must be an Indian citizen with a valid government ID.
- The innovation must be a hardware-based product (software-only ideas are generally not eligible).
- Student innovators must be at least 18 years of age.
- The innovator must be mentored by a PRAYAS Centre (DST-supported TBI).
- Innovators should have a clear roadmap for prototyping.
How much money?
Grant amount up to ₹10,00,000 (Ten Lakhs) to be utilized for prototype development within 18 months.
Documents needed
- Aadhaar Card / Voter ID of the applicant
- Detailed Project Report (DPR) explaining the technical feasibility
- Detailed budget breakup for the prototype development
- Intellectual Property (IP) disclosure (if any)
- Company registration certificate (for startups)
- Letter of recommendation or endorsement from the PRAYAS Centre
How to apply (step by step)
- Identify a DST-recognized PRAYAS Centre (PC) near your location.
- Wait for the call for applications issued by the specific PRAYAS Centre.
- Submit the online/offline application form along with the technical proposal.
- Present the prototype idea before a Project Management Committee (PMC).
- Upon selection, sign an agreement with the Host Institute/Incubator.
- Receive fund tranches based on project milestones and progress reports.
Important dates
| Event | Date |
|---|---|
| Application Cycle | Varies by PRAYAS Centre; check official DST portal frequently. |
| Program Duration | Maximum 18 months for prototype completion. |
Conclusion
NIDHI-PRAYAS is a game-changer for hardware entrepreneurs who often struggle to find seed funding for Physical product development. By providing both financial aid and access to fabrication labs, the scheme empowers young innovators to turn their blueprints into reality. Interested applicants should visit the nearest TBI for more details.
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