DST–NIDHI Seed Support Scheme (SSS) at IIMK LIVE

The DST–NIDHI Seed Support Scheme at IIMK LIVE is a dedicated seed funding program for startups, sanctioned by the Department of Science and Technology (DST) under its NIDHI–Seed Support System.

This program is specifically designed to bolster early-stage startups that are incubated at IIMK LIVE, which operates as a Technology Business Incubator hosted by IIM Kozhikode. Its core objective is to bridge the critical gap between the development phase and the commercialization of innovative technologies, products, and services.

Startups receive timely financial backing, coupled with essential mentorship and access to a robust ecosystem. This comprehensive support empowers ventures to effectively scale their ideas, transforming them into market-ready solutions that generate both economic and social impact. Funding is disbursed in tranches, based on the achievement of predefined milestones, and offers flexibility, potentially structured as equity, debt, or a combination of both.

• Funding of up to ₹1 Crore available.
• Application deadline is February 25, 2026.
• Supported by IIMK LIVE and DST NIDHI-SSS.
• Requires incubation at IIMK LIVE with 3 months residency.
• Funding can be structured as equity, debt, or a combination.
• Aimed at early-stage startups in India.

To be eligible for the DST–NIDHI Seed Support Scheme, startups must meet several key criteria.

Applicants must either be currently incubated at IIMK LIVE or commit to undergoing incubation there. A mandatory minimum three months of residency at IIMK LIVE is required.

The startup must be a registered company in India and maintain at least 51% Indian promoter shareholding.

It is important to note that startups that have previously received support under any NIDHI-SSS program are not eligible to apply for this scheme.

DST–NIDHI Seed Support Scheme (SSS) at IIMK LIVE is open to startups at any stage. It is open to startups registered anywhere in India.

The most recent application window for DST–NIDHI Seed Support Scheme (SSS) at IIMK LIVE closed on 25 Feb 2026. Many programmes run repeat cohorts, so it is worth checking the official site for the next round.

Recipients of the DST–NIDHI Seed Support Scheme at IIMK LIVE benefit from substantial financial and strategic support.

Startups can secure seed funding of up to ₹1 Crore.

This funding is milestone-based and disbursed in tranches, providing structured financial assistance as the startup progresses. The funding can be flexibly structured as equity, debt, or a combination of these options.

Beyond capital, the program offers invaluable mentorship and comprehensive ecosystem access through IIMK LIVE, aiding in the development and commercialization journey.

DST–NIDHI Seed Support Scheme (SSS) at IIMK LIVE is offered by IIMK LIVE, an academic institution. It is delivered directly by IIMK LIVE as a grant. You can verify current details and timelines on the provider's official website before applying.

Before you apply to DST–NIDHI Seed Support Scheme (SSS) at IIMK LIVE, 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.

DST–NIDHI Seed Support Scheme (SSS) at IIMK LIVE is best suited for startups in India seeking non-dilutive funding of ₹1Cr. If that describes your startup, review the eligibility criteria above before applying.