About this programme
FITT First-Cheque Deep-Tech Investment is a core investment program at the Foundation for Innovation and Technology Transfer (FITT) at IIT Delhi, providing early-stage capital for deep-tech and groundbreaking technology startups. FITT acts as a first-cheque investor providing debt or equity capital in the ₹10 lakh to ₹1.5 crore range to startups at scaling stage addressing significant global markets or pressing issues through technology innovation. It is run by Foundation for Innovation and Technology Transfer (FITT), IIT Delhi.
This is equity funding — the investor (often through a fund) takes a stake in your company in exchange for capital, rather than lending or granting money. You give up some ownership; you don’t repay it like a loan. The amount and form of support that actually apply to you depend on the programme’s rules and how your application is assessed — they are not fixed for every applicant.
It is aimed at businesses in deep-tech · groundbreaking/frontier technologies · biotechnology. Like most government programmes, it has its own eligibility conditions, documentation and application window, and these terms are revised from time to time. Because of that, it is worth confirming the current eligibility, amount and deadline on the official programme page before you invest time in applying.
How it works
Startups submit applications to FITT through their website or direct contact. FITT reviews proposals based on technology innovation, market potential, and team quality. Selected startups receive capital through either debt or equity instruments at the first institutional investment stage. Beyond capital, FITT provides incubation support, mentoring from experienced entrepreneurs, access to IIT Delhi research infrastructure and networks, technical guidance, and assistance in subsequent fundraising rounds. FITT has incubated 280+ startups and facilitated ₹450+ crore in cumulative funding.
Who can apply
Early-stage startups working on deep-tech or groundbreaking/frontier technologies, typically at prototype-validated or scaling stage. Startups must be addressing significant global markets, solving pressing societal issues, or introducing disruptive technology. FITT focuses on companies with founder teams demonstrating strong technical and business acumen.
How to apply
- Develop your deep-tech startup with prototype or validated concept
- Prepare comprehensive business and technical proposal
- Submit application to FITT through their financial support portal or email (mdfitt@gmail.com)
- Engage in pitch and evaluation process with FITT investment team
- Upon selection, receive first-cheque investment and incubation support
Documents you’ll typically need
- Business registration / incorporation certificate
- PAN (and GST registration, where applicable)
- Identity and address proof for the applicant / directors
- A short description of your business or project
- Recent financials or a simple project report
The exact checklist depends on the programme and your specifics.
Frequently asked
What is the investment range for FITT First-Cheque Deep-Tech Investment?
FITT invests between ₹10 lakhs and ₹1.5 crore per startup as a first institutional investor, using debt or equity instruments.
What types of technologies does FITT invest in?
FITT focuses on deep-tech and groundbreaking/frontier technologies startups addressing significant global markets or pressing societal issues through technology innovation.
Does FITT provide only capital or additional support?
Beyond capital, FITT provides comprehensive incubation support including mentoring, access to IIT Delhi research infrastructure, technical guidance, networking, and assistance in subsequent fundraising rounds.
Reviewed July 2026. Government programmes change — confirm current eligibility, amounts and deadlines on the official programme page before you apply. CapEasy is a private consultancy and is not affiliated with any government authority.