DST NIDHI Seed Support Program (NIDHI-SSP) – PDEU Innovation & Incubation Center
Equity-based seed funding up to ₹1 Crore for technology startups incubated at PDEU IIC, with mentoring and incubation support.
- Funding amount
- ₹25L – ₹1Cr (equity)
- Funding type
- Equity
- Provider
- Pandit Deendayal Energy University (Academic)
- Application deadline
- Rolling
- Eligible stage
- Any stage
- Location
- Open to startups registered in India
Overview
The DST NIDHI Seed Support Program (NIDHI-SSP) at Pandit Deendayal Energy University's Innovation & Incubation Center (PDEU IIC) is a national initiative under the National Science & Technology Entrepreneurship Development Board (NSTEDB), Department of Science & Technology, Government of India. This program provides critical early-stage equity funding and comprehensive incubation support to technology-driven startups, helping them transition from concept to commercialization. By offering financial backing and strategic mentorship, PDEU IIC aims to foster a vibrant entrepreneurial ecosystem and nurture innovative ventures into successful market-ready businesses.
Highlights
- Equity funding up to ₹1 Crore
- Average ticket size ₹25 Lakhs
- Milestone-based disbursement
- Business mentoring & strategic guidance
- Access to PDEU IIC ecosystem
- Supports proof of concept to commercialization
Who can apply
The program is open to Indian-registered private limited companies that have been incubated at PDEU IIC for at least three months. Applicants must demonstrate a strong unique selling proposition and customer value. Indian promoters must hold at least 51% shareholding. While DPIIT registration is preferred, it is not mandatory. The program excludes foreign companies, Indian subsidiaries of MNCs, and startups that have already received NIDHI SSP funding from any other incubator. Preference is given to ventures that have not yet secured funding from other government sources.
DST NIDHI Seed Support Program (NIDHI-SSP) – PDEU Innovation & Incubation Center 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
DST NIDHI Seed Support Program (NIDHI-SSP) – PDEU Innovation & Incubation Center accepts applications on a rolling basis — there is no fixed cut-off date, so eligible startups can apply at any time. Because rolling programmes can pause without notice, confirm the window is still open on the official site before you start.
What the funding covers
The program offers equity-based seed funding up to ₹1 Crore (₹100 Lakhs), with an average investment ticket size of approximately ₹25 Lakhs. Funding is disbursed in tranches linked to the achievement of pre-defined milestones. This financial support is designed to cover proof of concept, prototype development, product trials, market entry, and initial commercialization. Beyond capital, selected startups receive in-depth business mentoring, strategic guidance from experienced advisors, and access to the PDEU IIC ecosystem, including networking and collaboration opportunities.
About the provider
DST NIDHI Seed Support Program (NIDHI-SSP) – PDEU Innovation & Incubation Center is offered by Pandit Deendayal Energy University, an academic institution. It is delivered directly by Pandit Deendayal Energy University as a equity. 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
The selection process begins with an eligibility screening to ensure all basic criteria are met, such as company registration and promoter shareholding. Next, shortlisted applications undergo a thorough technical and business evaluation by a panel of experts, assessing innovation, market potential, financial viability, and team strength. Finally, promising startups are presented to an Investment Committee for a final review, which may involve a pitch presentation and Q&A session. The committee makes the final funding decisions.
Documents you’ll need
Before you apply to DST NIDHI Seed Support Program (NIDHI-SSP) – PDEU Innovation & Incubation Center, 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 Seed Support Program (NIDHI-SSP) – PDEU Innovation & Incubation Center is best suited for startups in India seeking an equity investment of ₹25L – ₹1Cr. If that describes your startup, review the eligibility criteria above before applying.
Frequently asked questions
What is the maximum funding amount?
Startups can receive up to ₹1 Crore (₹100 Lakhs) in equity seed funding.
What is the typical investment amount?
The average investment ticket size is approximately ₹25 Lakhs.
Is the funding a grant or does it require equity?
This program provides equity-based seed funding, not a grant. The incubator takes a stake in the startup in exchange for funding.
Who can apply for this program?
Indian-registered private limited companies that have been incubated at PDEU IIC for at least three months are eligible. Indian promoters must hold at least 51% shareholding. Foreign companies and subsidiaries of MNCs are not eligible.
Is DPIIT registration required?
DPIIT registration is preferred but not strictly mandatory.
Can startups that have already received government funding apply?
Yes, but preference is given to startups that have not received prior funding from Government of India or State Government bodies. However, startups that have already received NIDHI SSP funding from any other incubator are strictly not eligible.
What support is provided besides funding?
Selected startups receive business mentoring, strategic guidance, and access to the PDEU IIC ecosystem, including networking and incubation support.
How is the funding disbursed?
Funding is disbursed in tranches, contingent upon the startup achieving pre-defined milestones.
What is the application deadline?
The program has a rolling deadline, meaning applications are accepted continuously.
How do I apply?
Applications are submitted online via the official Google Forms link provided by PDEU IIC. Required documents typically include a pitch deck, business plan, financial projections, incorporation documents, and team résumés.
Who offers DST NIDHI Seed Support Program (NIDHI-SSP) – PDEU Innovation & Incubation Center?
DST NIDHI Seed Support Program (NIDHI-SSP) – PDEU Innovation & Incubation Center is offered by Pandit Deendayal Energy University, an academic institution. It is provided as an investment.
Alternatives to DST NIDHI Seed Support Program (NIDHI-SSP) – PDEU Innovation & Incubation Center
Not sure DST NIDHI Seed Support Program (NIDHI-SSP) – PDEU Innovation & Incubation Center is the right fit, or already applied? These are other equity open to Indian startups that founders shortlist alongside it.
Questions from founders
Ask anything about eligibility, documents or the process — answered by the community.
No questions yet — be the first to ask.