TIDE 2.0 Scheme: Empowering Tech Startups to Innovate in ICT Domains
Explore TIDE 2.0 (Technology Incubation and Development of Entrepreneurs), a MeitY initiative supporting ICT startups with funding, mentorship, and incubation s
The Technology Incubation and Development of Entrepreneurs (TIDE 2.0) is a flagship program by the Ministry of Electronics and Information Technology (MeitY). Designed to strengthen the startup ecosystem, it focuses on promoting innovation and entrepreneurship by leveraging emerging technologies like AI, IoT, Blockchain, and Robotics. TIDE 2.0 specifically aims to address societal challenges through ICT-enabled solutions.
What is this scheme?
TIDE 2.0 is a scheme implemented across 51 incubators (TIDE Centers) in India to support tech startups at various stages of their journey. The scheme is categorized into three types of centers: G1 (Group 1 - Mentors), G2 (Group 2 - Scaling), and G3 (Group 3 - Nurturing). It provides financial assistance through Entrepreneur-in- Residence (EiR) grants and MeitY Startup Sprint (Grant-in-Aid) focus, facilitating the transition from prototype to product.
Who is eligible?
- The applicant must be an Indian citizen.
- The startup must be a registered legal entity in India as per DPIIT norms.
- The solution must involve Information and Communication Technology (ICT) across domains like HealthTech, EduTech, FinTech, Agriculture, or Smart Cities.
- Startups at the Ideation, MVP, or Scaling stage are eligible depending on the specific grant tier.
- The innovator should be working at a TIDE 2.0 designated incubation center or be willing to be incubated at one.
How much money?
TIDE 2.0 offers varied support: Entrepreneur-in-Residence (EiR) provides up to ₹4 Lakhs for ideation, while the MeitY Startup Sprint provides up to ₹7 Lakhs for prototyping and MVP development. Select startups may also access follow-on funding and equity-based investment through participating incubators.
Documents needed
- DPIIT Recognition Certificate (for registered startups)
- Founder(s) Aadhaar and PAN Cards
- Detailed Project Report (DPR) or Business Plan
- Proof of Concept (PoC) or Prototype details (if applicable)
- Company Registration Documents (COI)
- Bank Account Details of the Entity
How to apply (step by step)
- Visit the official MeitY Startup Hub (MSH) portal or the website of a designated TIDE 2.0 Incubation Center.
- Identify the relevant TIDE Center (G1, G2, or G3) based on your tech domain and stage.
- Submit an online application detailing the innovative ICT solution and its societal impact.
- Undergo a screening process by the local incubator management committee.
- Present the business model and technical feasibility to a selection jury.
- Upon selection, enter into an incubation agreement to receive fiscal and mentorship support.
Important dates
| Event | Date |
|---|---|
| Application Cycle | Rolling basis or as per individual incubator notifications |
| Program Duration | Up to 5 years from the date of implementation |
| Next Cohort Deadline | As per latest notification, verify on official portal |
Conclusion
TIDE 2.0 stands as a pillar for digital transformation in India, bridging the gap between academic research and commercial success. By offering financial corridors and technical guidance, it ensures that high-potential tech entrepreneurs can scale their solutions effectively. For those building the next generation of ICT solutions, TIDE 2.0 is the ideal springboard.

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