DST NIDHI i-TBI Ignition Grant 2.0 at CSVTU-FORTE
A grant of up to ₹10L for early-stage startups in Chhattisgarh, offering incubation support to convert ideas into prototypes.
- Funding amount
- ₹10L (grant)
- Funding type
- Grant
- Provider
- CSVTU Foundation (Academic)
- Application deadline
- Closed (7 Feb 2026)
- Eligible stage
- Any stage
- Location
- Open to startups registered in India
Overview
The DST NIDHI i-TBI Ignition Grant 2.0 is implemented at CSVTU Foundation for Rural Technology and Entrepreneurship (CSVTU-FORTE) under the Department of Science and Technology's NIDHI i-TBI initiative. It aims to foster innovation-led entrepreneurship by supporting innovative ideas and early-stage startups, particularly from Chhattisgarh. Selected applicants receive an Ignition Grant along with incubation benefits like co-working space, laboratory access, mentorship, and structured training. The grant follows DST–NIDHI i-TBI norms and focuses on turning innovative ideas into viable prototypes and early products. Based on performance and evaluation, startups may also get further incubation support.
Highlights
- Up to ₹10L grant for early-stage and idea-stage startups.
- Priority for Chhattisgarh-based innovators and entrepreneurs.
- Open to technology-driven ideas in Energy, Digital Tech, EdTech, IoT, Women-led ventures, and Social Impact.
- Get co-working space, lab access, mentorship, and training.
- Women-led and socially impactful ideas strongly encouraged.
- Based on performance, you may qualify for further incubation.
Who can apply
Innovators and early-stage startups with novel, technology-driven ideas are eligible. The program is open to applicants from across Chhattisgarh. Startups at the idea, prototype, or MVP stage are welcome. The focuses sectors include Energy, Digital Technology, EdTech, IoT, Women-led ventures, and Social Impact. Proposed ideas must align with DST–NIDHI i-TBI guidelines. Women-led and socially impactful innovations are particularly encouraged to apply.
DST NIDHI i-TBI Ignition Grant 2.0 at CSVTU-FORTE is open to startups at any stage. It is open to startups registered anywhere in India.
- Eligible stage
- Any stage
- Location
- Open to startups registered in India
Deadline & timing
The most recent application window for DST NIDHI i-TBI Ignition Grant 2.0 at CSVTU-FORTE closed on 7 Feb 2026. Many programmes run repeat cohorts, so it is worth checking the official site for the next round.
What the funding covers
The core benefit is the Ignition Grant of up to ₹10L. Beyond the grant, selected startups gain access to co-working space, laboratory facilities, mentorship, and structured training. Additionally, strong-performing startups may be considered for further incubation support under the DST–NIDHI i-TBI ecosystem.
About the provider
DST NIDHI i-TBI Ignition Grant 2.0 at CSVTU-FORTE is offered by CSVTU Foundation, an academic institution. It is delivered directly by CSVTU Foundation as a grant. You can verify current details and timelines on the provider's official website before applying.
How to apply
Applications are submitted on the official portal. Confirm the current deadline and document checklist there before you start.
Selection process
Applications are reviewed to verify alignment with DST–NIDHI i-TBI norms and program focus areas. Shortlisted applicants are then evaluated on innovation, feasibility, and potential commercial or social impact. Final selection decisions are communicated after the evaluation, and Grantees must adhere to program timelines and reporting requirements.
Documents you’ll need
Before you apply to DST NIDHI i-TBI Ignition Grant 2.0 at CSVTU-FORTE, keep the following documents ready:
- A pitch deck or short business plan describing the problem, product and traction
- Company registration documents and PAN
- Founder identification (PAN / Aadhaar) and brief profiles
- Recent financial statements or projections
- Product details — a demo, prototype or working link if available
Exact requirements are confirmed on the official application portal — treat this as a preparation checklist.
Who this is best for
DST NIDHI i-TBI Ignition Grant 2.0 at CSVTU-FORTE is best suited for startups in India seeking non-dilutive funding of ₹10L. If that describes your startup, review the eligibility criteria above before applying.
Frequently asked questions
What is the DST NIDHI i-TBI Ignition Grant 2.0 amount?
The program offers an Ignition Grant of up to ₹10 lakhs.
What is the application deadline?
The deadline to apply is February 7, 2026.
Who can apply for this grant?
Innovators and early-stage startups with a technology-driven idea, prototype, or MVP located in Chhattisgarh are eligible. Focus sectors include Energy, Digital Technology, EdTech, IoT, Women-led ventures, and Social Impact. Women-led and socially impactful innovations are strongly encouraged.
Is there any restriction on patent/entity type?
The program is open to individuals and companies at idea, prototype, or MVP stage. Specific entity-type requirements (like registered entity) are not stated, but collaboration with CSVTU-FORTE may require eventual registration or partnership.
Is DPIIT or MSME registration required?
DPIIT or MSME registration is not mentioned as a mandatory requirement, but compliance with DST–NIDHI i-TBI guidelines and norms is expected.
Does the grant take equity?
No, the Ignition Grant is a non-dilutive grant, so equity is not taken. It is designed to support early-stage innovation without giving up ownership.
What types of projects or ideas are supported?
The program supports novel, technology-driven ideas, especially those that have potential to become a prototype or an early product. Energy, Digital Technology, EdTech, IoT, women-led startups, and social impact ideas are specifically mentioned.
How is the selection done?
Applications are examined for innovation, feasibility, and potential entrepreneurial or social impact, ensuring alignment with DST–NIDHI i-TBI norms. Shortlisting is followed by evaluation, and successful applicants are informed.
Where do I apply?
Applications can be submitted via the official Google Form provided by CSVTU-FORTE. The link is available on the program page.
What are the incubation benefits besides the grant?
Successful applicants get access to co-working space, laboratory facilities, mentorship, and structured training. Based on progress, they may also be considered for extended incubation support.
How much funding does DST NIDHI i-TBI Ignition Grant 2.0 at CSVTU-FORTE provide?
DST NIDHI i-TBI Ignition Grant 2.0 at CSVTU-FORTE provides ₹10L (up to) as grant. Always confirm the exact amount and any conditions on the official site, as figures can change between cohorts.
Who offers DST NIDHI i-TBI Ignition Grant 2.0 at CSVTU-FORTE?
DST NIDHI i-TBI Ignition Grant 2.0 at CSVTU-FORTE is offered by CSVTU Foundation, an academic institution. It is provided as non-dilutive funding.
How do I apply for DST NIDHI i-TBI Ignition Grant 2.0 at CSVTU-FORTE?
Apply directly through the official application link on this page. Review the eligibility criteria and prepare your startup documents before you begin.
Alternatives to DST NIDHI i-TBI Ignition Grant 2.0 at CSVTU-FORTE
Not sure DST NIDHI i-TBI Ignition Grant 2.0 at CSVTU-FORTE is the right fit, or already applied? These are other grants open to Indian startups that founders shortlist alongside it.
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