About this programme
NIDHI PRAYAS is a sector-agnostic DST programme that supports young innovators—including students, researchers, and early-stage entrepreneurs—in translating innovative ideas into prototypes or proof-of-concept. The maximum funding support offered is INR 10 lakh per innovator or startup. Beneficiaries receive access to Technology Business Incubator (TBI) infrastructure including PRAYAS Shalas and Fab Labs for fabrication, plus mentoring, technical and financial advice, and industry connections to convert ideas into commercialisation-ready prototypes. The programme is implemented by DST in association with SINE, IIT Bombay, and delivered through NIDHI-PRAYAS Centres at selected TBIs. It is run by Department of Science and Technology (DST), Government of India.
A grant is financial support you don’t repay — awarded against eligibility and, usually, agreed milestones or utilisation of funds. 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.
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
Innovators and startups apply through designated NIDHI-PRAYAS Centres at selected TBIs. Incubation centers apply through open calls on the NIDHI-PRAYAS PMU Website. Successful applicants receive DST funding converted into working prototypes. The programme provides infrastructure access at Technology Business Incubators, mentoring support, technical and financial advice, and connections with industry partners for product commercialisation.
Who can apply
Students, researchers, innovators, entrepreneurs, and early-stage startups with an innovative idea seeking prototype or proof-of-concept funding, applying through a NIDHI-PRAYAS Centre at a selected TBI. Young innovators demonstrating problem-solving abilities in technology or innovation-based ventures.
How to apply
- Identify a NIDHI-PRAYAS Centre at a participating TBI from the official centre list
- Submit application through the designated Centre during open application calls
- Provide programme guidelines and required documentation as specified
- Participate in evaluation and selection process by the incubation centre
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
Who can apply to NIDHI PRAYAS?
Students, researchers, innovators, entrepreneurs, and early-stage startups with an innovative technology or innovation-based idea can apply through a NIDHI-PRAYAS Centre at a selected TBI.
What is the maximum funding support available?
The maximum funding support offered under NIDHI PRAYAS is INR 10 lakh per innovator or startup.
What kind of support does the programme provide beyond funding?
Beyond funding, beneficiaries receive infrastructure access at TBIs including Fab Labs for fabrication, mentoring support, technical and financial advice, and connections with industry partners.
How do I apply for NIDHI PRAYAS?
You must apply through a NIDHI-PRAYAS Centre at a selected TBI. You can find the list of participating centres on the official NIDHI-PRAYAS website at nidhi-prayas.org.
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.