NIDHI Seed Support Scheme (NIDHI-SSS) – TIDES IIT Roorkee
Offered By - BITS Pilani
About the Program
NIDHI-SSS (Seed Support Scheme) is a government-backed seed funding program under the Department of Science & Technology (DST), implemented through incubators like TIDES IIT Roorkee. It is designed to provide startups with financial support to move from prototype to commercialization and market entry.
Who is it for:
This program is specifically for incubated startups (mandatory) that are already registered companies in India and have spent at least a few months within an incubator. It targets startups that have validated prototypes and are ready to enter the market.
What do you get:
Startups receive seed funding (up to ₹50L) along with incubation support such as mentorship, lab access, legal & IP support, and business guidance. The funding can be structured as equity, debt, or hybrid instruments, depending on the incubator and startup.
Why it matters:
This program plays a critical role in bridging the gap between prototype and commercialization, which is one of the toughest phases for startups. Unlike PRAYAS (idea stage), NIDHI-SSS supports startups that are closer to market and need capital + support to scale and generate revenue.
Offerings –
Seed funding up to ₹1Cr
Funding for:
Product development
Testing & trials
Market entry
Commercialization
Mentorship & incubation support
Legal, accounting & IP support
Access to labs & technical infrastructure
Networking & ecosystem access
Who Can Apply / Eligibility
Must be a registered Indian startup/company
Must be an incubatee (minimum ~3 months residency)
At least 51% Indian shareholding
Not applicable for subsidiaries of foreign companies
Must have validated idea/prototype with commercialization potential
Selection Process
- Application submission through the official platform
- Initial screening based on eligibility and concept strength
- Evaluation based on innovation, scalability, and impact
- Shortlisting of selected applicants
- Final selection by the organizing body
The exact selection process may vary depending on program guidelines.
How to Apply
- Visit the official application page of the program provided below
- Review eligibility criteria and submission requirements
- Prepare necessary documents and project details
- Submit your application before the deadline
- Await further communication from the organizers
Frequently Asked Questions
Must be a registered Indian startup/company
Must be an incubatee (minimum ~3 months residency)
At least 51% Indian shareholding
Not applicable for subsidiaries of foreign companies
Must have validated idea/prototype with commercialization potential