About this programme
The NIDHI Seed Support Program (NIDHI-SSP) provides timely financial assistance routed through incubators to support potential startups with promising ideas, innovations, and technologies. It functions as a bridge between the development and commercialisation of innovative technologies, products, and services. The maximum support given to a deserving startup is up to INR 100 lakh. Incubators and Technology Business Incubators themselves can receive up to INR 1000 lakh, released in phases according to their needs and capacity, for onward deployment as seed support to startups. Startups apply to one of the listed NIDHI-SSP incubators/TBIs, which announce periodic calls for applications. 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
The programme operates through two main pathways: TBIs and startup incubators submit applications annually via an online portal at onlinedst.gov.in for institutional funding; innovators and startups apply to listed incubators/TBIs that announce periodic application calls for seed funding. Funds are disbursed in phases based on incubator capacity and needs, with incubators then deploying the seed support to startups. Applications are accepted once annually for incubators; startups follow individual incubator schedules.
Who can apply
Early-stage incubatee startups with promising ideas, innovations, or technologies seeking seed funding. Beneficiaries include entrepreneurs, startups, students, researchers, and innovators. Applications are submitted through a NIDHI-SSP listed incubator or TBI during its periodic application calls.
How to apply
- For Incubators: Submit application annually via online portal at onlinedst.gov.in
- For Startups: Apply to a listed NIDHI-SSP incubator or TBI during its periodic application calls
- Check the Supported Incubators List PDF for eligible institutions
- Follow the application procedures specified by the selected incubator
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
The exact checklist depends on the programme and your specifics.
Frequently asked
Who can receive funding under NIDHI-SSP?
Early-stage startups with promising ideas, innovations, or technologies can receive funding up to INR 100 lakh. Startups must apply through a listed NIDHI-SSP incubator or TBI.
How much funding can incubators/TBIs receive?
TBIs and startup incubators can receive up to INR 1000 lakh, distributed in phases based on their capacity and needs, for onward deployment as seed support to startups.
How often can startups apply?
Startups can apply during periodic application calls announced by their chosen NIDHI-SSP listed incubator or TBI. Incubators themselves submit applications once annually via the online portal.
What is the purpose of NIDHI-SSP?
NIDHI-SSP functions as a bridge between the development and commercialisation of innovative technologies, products, and services, providing timely financial assistance to support early-stage startups with promising innovations.
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.