DST NIDHI Seed Support Program (NIDHI-SSP) – PDEU Innovation & Incubation Center
Under NIDHI-SSP (Seed Support Program) by Pandit Deendayal Energy University
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Quick Answer
Receive equity-based seed funding of up to ₹1 Crore, along with mentorship and incubation support from PDEU IIC to accelerate your technology startup's growth and commercialization.
- Funding amount
- ₹25 Lakhs – ₹1 Cr
- Funding type
- Equity
- Application deadline
- Rolling
- Location
- Open to startups registered in India
About this funding program
The NIDHI Seed Support Program (NIDHI SSP) at PDEU Innovation & Incubation Center is a pivotal initiative by the National Science & Technology Entrepreneurship Development Board (NSTEDB), under the Department of Science & Technology, Government of India. This program is designed to empower technology-driven startups by providing crucial seed funding and comprehensive incubation support. It addresses the critical early-stage financial and strategic needs of innovative ventures, helping them bridge the gap from concept to commercialization. The broader NIDHI umbrella program aims to nurture knowledge-based and technology-driven ideas and innovations into successful startups, fostering a vibrant entrepreneurial ecosystem across India.
PDEU IIC, as an implementing partner, leverages this national scheme to specifically support startups in its ecosystem. The program's core objective is to facilitate the development and market entry of groundbreaking products. By offering both financial backing and strategic guidance, NIDHI SSP at PDEU IIC helps startups navigate the complex journey of product development, validation, and market penetration, ultimately contributing to India's technological and economic growth.
Eligibility
See if you're eligible
Full eligibility criteria — entity type, stage, sector, founder profile and registration requirements — plus your fit for this program. Sign up to view.
Funding providers
Pandit Deendayal Energy University Pandit Deendayal Energy University is an institution in Gandhinagar, Gujarat hosting a Technology Business Incubation (TBI) / Atal Incubation Centre (AIC) recognised under India's NIDHI programme (DST) and/or the Atal Innovation Mission (AIM),…
Learn moreBenefits & Funding
- Amount
- ₹25 Lakhs – ₹1 Cr
What You Get
This program offers seed funding up to ₹1 Crore (INR 100 Lakhs), with an average investment ticket size of approximately ₹25 Lakhs. The funding is disbursed in tranches, linked to the achievement of approved milestones. This financial support is specifically designed to cover critical stages such as proof of concept, prototype development, product trials, market entry strategies, and initial commercialization efforts. Beyond capital, selected startups benefit from in-depth business mentoring and strategic guidance from experienced advisors. They also gain invaluable access to the extensive PDEU Innovation & Incubation Center ecosystem, fostering networking opportunities and collaborative growth within a supportive environment.
- Disbursement
- Milestone Based
Timelines & Process
Applications
Rolling basis
Selection Process
The selection process for the NIDHI Seed Support Program at PDEU IIC involves a rigorous, multi-stage evaluation designed to identify high-potential technology startups. Initially, submitted applications undergo an eligibility screening to confirm adherence to the fundamental criteria, such as Indian registration and promoter shareholding. Following this, a comprehensive technical and business evaluation is conducted by a panel of subject matter experts and business mentors. This stage scrutinizes the startup's innovation, market potential, financial viability, and the strength of its team. Finally, selected startups proceed to an Investment Committee review, where they may be invited to present their ventures. The committee makes the final funding decisions, considering all aspects of the startup's proposal and potential for impact.
Application Process
- 1
Apply Online
Submit your startup's details and proposal through the official online application form.
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How to apply
Four steps from draft to disbursement — one action each.
- 1
Draft your application
Answer the form inside the grant tracker — AI drafts each response using your past answers, so you're not starting from a blank page.
- 2
See the questions before you start
Download every question this programme's application form asks, so you can prepare your answers offline before opening the portal.
- 3
Line up your documents
Keep every document from the checklist ready in one folder. Missing docs are the #1 reason applications get bounced.
- 4
Submit on the official portal
Use the official application link and verify all details before final submission.
- 5
Follow up
Reach out 5–7 days after submitting to confirm receipt and ask about the review timeline.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the maximum funding available?
Startups can receive up to ₹1 Crore (INR 100 Lakhs) in seed funding.
What is the typical investment ticket size?
The average investment ticket size for this program is approximately ₹25 Lakhs.
Is this an equity-free grant?
No, this program provides equity-based seed funding.
Who is eligible to apply for this program?
The program is open to Private Limited companies registered in India, with at least 51% Indian promoter shareholding, and a minimum of three months of incubation at PDEU IIC. Foreign subsidiaries are not eligible.
Are startups that have previously received government funding eligible?
While eligible, preference is given to startups that have not received prior funding from Government of India or State Government bodies. Startups that have already received NIDHI SSP support from any other incubator are strictly not eligible.
What kind of support is provided beyond funding?
In addition to financial assistance, startups receive business mentoring, strategic guidance, and access to the extensive PDEU Innovation & Incubation Center ecosystem and network of mentors.
Sources
Data on this page is compiled from official program and provider references.
