🛠️ Tool
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India
Free
Intermediate
Why we picked it NIDHI is the DST umbrella that funds ideas and prototypes through campus incubators, the most realistic path for student and pre-company founders to get non-dilutive money in India. PRAYAS in particular is designed for the awkward 'I have a prototype but no company yet' stage.
NIDHI, DST's Umbrella for Student & Early-Stage Grants (PRAYAS, Seed Support, EIR)
From NIDHI, DST (nidhi.dst.gov.in) by Department of Science & Technology (DST), Government of India Programme directory
- NIDHI-PRAYAS gives innovators up to INR 10 lakh for prototype development, often accessible to students and individuals via incubators.
- NIDHI Seed Support Programme (NIDHI-SSP) provides seed grants to startups through DST-recognised incubators.
- NIDHI-EIR (Entrepreneur in Residence) offers a fellowship/stipend so you can pursue an idea before quitting or incorporating.
- Everything routes through a DST-affiliated incubator, so your first move is finding and getting into one near you.
