Do I need to be incubated to apply for NIDHI-SSS?

Yes. The startup must be physically or virtually incubated at a DST-supported Technology Business Incubator (TBI) for a minimum of three months before applying for the seed support.

What is the maximum funding amount under NIDHI-SSS?

The standard funding limit is ₹25 Lakhs per startup. However, exceptionally innovative and scalable startups may receive up to ₹100 Lakhs based on the incubator’s Seed Support Management Committee (SSMC) approval.

Is the NIDHI-SSS funding a grant or a loan?

It is typically disbursed as a soft loan (with low interest rates of 2-3%), equity, or equity-linked instruments like Convertible Debentures, depending on the specific incubator’s policy.

Can foreign companies apply for NIDHI-SSS?

No. The startup must be an Indian company where at least 51% of the shares are held by Indian promoters (including OCI/PIO holders).

💡 Govt. Seed Support System

NIDHI-SSS Startup Funding: Scale from Prototype to Commercialization

Secure up to ₹1 Crore in soft debt or equity funding backed by the Department of Science and Technology (DST). We handle your pitch deck, incubator placement, and SSMC committee liaisons.

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NIDHI-SSS Funding Benefits

Accelerating product validation and market entry for deep-tech and innovative startups

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Up to ₹1 Crore Capital

Standard limit of ₹25 Lakhs, stretchable up to ₹100 Lakhs for exceptional scale-up stage startups.

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Founder Friendly Terms

Disbursed as soft loans (2-3% interest), equity, or convertible debentures without heavy collateral.

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Prototype to Commercialization

Funds specifically meant to take your validated prototype (MVP) to market launch and early scaling.

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TBI Ecosystem Access

Gain mandatory access to premium lab facilities, mentorship, and industry networks via DST-backed incubators.

📋 Eligibility Criteria

Incorporation Structure: Must be a registered Private Limited Company or LLP in India.
Indian Ownership: At least 51% of shares must be firmly held by Indian promoters (includes OCI/PIO).
Incubation Requirement: Must be physically or virtually incubated at a DST-supported TBI for a minimum of 3 months.
Product Stage: Must have a Minimum Viable Product (MVP) or validated prototype ready for commercialization.
Exclusions: Indian subsidiaries of MNCs or foreign companies are strictly not eligible.

📂 Required Documents

DPIIT Recognition Certificate and Certificate of Incorporation.
Proof of 3-month continuous incubation at a DST TBI.
Comprehensive Business Plan and Financial Projections.
Professional Pitch Deck outlining the market problem, solution, and MVP traction.
Founders' KYC documentation and latest Shareholding Pattern.

Incubation & Application Process

We guide your startup through the mandatory TBI incubation phase up to fund disbursal

Incubator Assessment & Pitch Prep

We identify the right DST-supported TBI for your sector and draft a robust investment proposal and pitch deck.

TBI Incubation & Application

We assist in securing your 3-month incubation residency, after which we formally file your NIDHI-SSS application.

SSMC Pitch & Evaluation

Your startup is presented to the Seed Support Management Committee (SSMC) for rigorous technical and financial evaluation.

Due Diligence & Disbursement

Upon SSMC approval, we handle the compliance and due diligence requirements for smooth fund disbursement.

Frequently Asked Questions

Crucial details regarding DST incubator rules and funding limits

Audit Your Startup for NIDHI-SSS

Connect with our startup funding advisors today. We will evaluate your MVP and connect you with the right DST incubators.