TIDE 2.0 Scheme: Empowering ICT Startups and Tech Entrepreneurs in India
Learn about the TIDE 2.0 scheme by MeitY, offering financial assistance and incubation support to tech startups in areas like IoT, AI, and Blockchain.
The Technology Incubation and Development of Entrepreneurs (TIDE 2.0) is a flagship initiative by the Ministry of Electronics and Information Technology (MeitY). Designed to strengthen the startup ecosystem in India, it provides financial and technical support to startups leveraging Information and Communication Technology (ICT) to solve societal challenges across key sectors.
What is this scheme?
TIDE 2.0 is a scheme aimed at promoting innovation and entrepreneurship by supporting tech startups through a vast network of 51 incubators across India. The scheme focuses on emerging technologies such as IoT, AI, BlockChain, and Robotics, particularly targeting solutions in Healthcare, Education, Agriculture, and Financial Inclusion. It bridges the gap between ideation and commercialization through systematic funding and mentoring.
Who is eligible?
- The applicant must be an Indian citizen or a startup registered in India.
- The startup must be working on an ICT-based solution for societal challenges.
- Early-stage startups at the Ideation, MVP, or Go-to-Market stage are eligible.
- Must be supported or incubated by a MeitY-recognized TIDE 2.0 incubation center.
- The solution should ideally address one of the prioritized thematic areas: Health, Education, Agri-tech, or Fintech.
How much money?
TIDE 2.0 offers support under two main tiers: Entrepreneur-in-Residence (EiR) providing a grant of up to ₹4 Lakhs for validation of ideas, and Grants for MeitY Startup Hub (MSH) offering up to ₹7 Lakhs for MVP development. Further investment may be accessible through TIDE 2.0 incubators.
Documents needed
- Proof of Identity (Aadhaar/PAN Card)
- Start-up Recognition Certificate by DPIIT (if applicable)
- Detailed Project Report (DPR) or Pitch Deck
- Company Registration Documents
- Academic Certificates of Founders
- Proof of Incubation at a TIDE 2.0 Center
How to apply (step by step)
- Identify a MeitY-recognized TIDE 2.0 incubation center relevant to your sector.
- Visit the official MeitY Startup Hub (MSH) portal to view active calls for proposals.
- Submit a detailed application including the innovation concept and business model.
- Attend the screening committee interview or presentation at the chosen incubator.
- Upon selection, enter into an incubation agreement to receive the EiR or Grant-in-Aid funding.
- Achieve predefined milestones to unlock successive tranches of the grant.
Important dates
| Event | Date |
|---|---|
| Scheme Launch | 2019 |
| Call for Applications | Ongoing - varies by Incubation Center |
| Next Cohort Notification | As per latest notification, verify on official portal |
Conclusion
TIDE 2.0 is a vital pillar for India's tech-driven growth, offering more than just capital. By providing access to high-end infrastructure and expert mentorship, it empowers founders to transform high-risk innovations into market-ready products. If you are a tech visionary, TIDE 2.0 is your gateway to scaling your impact.

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