NIDHI-PRAYASCentral governmentOngoingIncubation & mentoring

NIDHI-PRAYAS (Promoting and Accelerating Young and Aspiring innovators)

Department of Science & Technology

Prototype grants for young innovators and startups turning ideas into working prototypes, through DST-supported PRAYAS centres (incubators).

Support Grant / seed funding
Maximum benefitUp to ₹10 lakh for a prototype
Who can applyStudents & innovators, Individuals / first-time entrepreneurs +1
Last dateOpen all year

Overview

Prototype grants for young innovators and startups turning ideas into working prototypes, through DST-supported PRAYAS centres (incubators).

Why it matters for founders

Use this scheme together with other Startup India and MSME benefits. Our community experts can help you prepare documents and a strong application.

Who can apply
Students & innovatorsIndividuals / first-time entrepreneursDPIIT-recognised startups
Business stage
Idea / prototype
Sectors
Deep techHardware

Key benefits

Grant of up to ₹10 lakh to build a prototype

Access to the incubator's fabrication labs, mentors and test facilities

Path to further NIDHI programmes (Seed Support, EIR)

Eligibility

  • Innovators and early-stage startups with a technology-based idea
  • Applications through a PRAYAS centre (host incubator)
  • The idea should be at a stage where a prototype can be built
Check which schemes fit you

How to apply

  1. 1

    Find a PRAYAS centre near you on the NIDHI website

  2. 2

    Apply through the centre's call for proposals

  3. 3

    Pitch to the centre's committee; selected innovators sign an agreement

Documents required

  • Idea / technology write-up
  • Identity proof
  • Budget for prototype development

Frequently asked questions

Who can apply for NIDHI-PRAYAS (Promoting and Accelerating Young and Aspiring innovators)?
Innovators and early-stage startups with a technology-based idea
Where do I apply?
Apply through the official website (https://nidhi.dst.gov.in/). We never charge for scheme applications.
Is the information on this page official?
It is compiled from official sources for guidance. Limits and dates change, so always confirm on the official website before applying.
Information compiled from official sources for guidance only. Limits, eligibility and deadlines are decided by the government and may change — always verify on the official website (nidhi.dst.gov.in) before applying.

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