NEST: Startup Training Program
The NEST: Startup Training Program, offered by the Ministry of Agriculture & Farmers Welfare, provides grants of up to ₹5,00,000 to support startups.
- Funding amount
- ₹5L (grant)
- Funding type
- Grant
- Provider
- Ministry of Agriculture & Farmers Welfare (Government)
- Application deadline
- Closed (15 May 2026)
- Eligible stage
- Any stage
- Location
- Open to startups registered in India
Overview
The NEST: Startup Training Program is an initiative spearheaded by the Ministry of Agriculture & Farmers Welfare. This program is specifically designed to foster innovation and growth within the startup ecosystem, particularly focusing on training and development.
Through this program, eligible startups can access financial assistance in the form of a grant, with support available up to ₹5,00,000. The aim is to empower new ventures and contribute to their sustainable development.
Highlights
- Offers grant funding up to ₹5,00,000.
- Provided by the Ministry of Agriculture & Farmers Welfare.
- Focuses on training and supporting startups.
- Application deadline is May 15, 2026.
Who can apply
The NEST: Startup Training Program is established to provide support to startups. While the program targets startups, specific details regarding eligible stages of operation, industries, geographical locations within India, or required entity types (such as Private Limited Company or LLP) are not specified in the available information. Furthermore, there is no mention of whether DPIIT or MSME registration is a prerequisite, nor are there any explicit founder requirements. Interested applicants should consult the official program guidelines for comprehensive and precise eligibility criteria.
NEST: Startup Training Program 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 NEST: Startup Training Program closed on 15 May 2026. Many programmes run repeat cohorts, so it is worth checking the official site for the next round.
What the funding covers
The NEST: Startup Training Program offers direct financial support to participating startups through a grant mechanism.
Successful applicants can receive funding up to ₹5,00,000. This grant is intended to provide crucial capital to help startups grow, develop their solutions, and potentially scale their operations, complementing the training aspect of the program.
About the provider
NEST: Startup Training Program is offered by Ministry of Agriculture & Farmers Welfare, a government body. As a government-backed grant, it is publicly funded and open to eligible startups across India. You can verify current details and timelines on the provider's official website before applying.
Documents you’ll need
Before you apply to NEST: Startup Training Program, 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
NEST: Startup Training Program is best suited for startups in India seeking non-dilutive funding of ₹5L. If that describes your startup, review the eligibility criteria above before applying.
Frequently asked questions
What is the NEST: Startup Training Program?
The NEST: Startup Training Program is an initiative by the Ministry of Agriculture & Farmers Welfare, designed to provide training and financial support to startups in India through grants.
How much funding can a startup receive through the NEST program?
Startups selected for the NEST program are eligible to receive a grant of up to ₹5,00,000.
What is the application deadline for the NEST: Startup Training Program?
The deadline to submit applications for the NEST: Startup Training Program is May 15, 2026.
Who is the provider of the NEST: Startup Training Program?
This program is provided by the Ministry of Agriculture & Farmers Welfare.
Is the funding from NEST a grant or does it involve equity?
The NEST: Startup Training Program offers funding in the form of a grant, which means no equity stake is taken from the participating startups.
How can I apply for the NEST: Startup Training Program?
You can apply for the NEST: Startup Training Program by visiting the official application link provided: https://lnkd.in/gCA_sDDD.
Are there specific eligibility criteria for startups to apply?
The available information indicates the program is for startups, but specific details regarding eligible stages, industries, geographical locations, or entity types are not provided. For detailed eligibility requirements, please refer to the official program guidelines.
Is DPIIT recognition required for NEST: Startup Training Program?
No. DPIIT (Startup India) recognition is not listed as a mandatory requirement for NEST: Startup Training Program, though having it can strengthen your application and unlock other benefits.
Who offers NEST: Startup Training Program?
NEST: Startup Training Program is offered by Ministry of Agriculture & Farmers Welfare, a government body. It is provided as non-dilutive funding.
More funding from Ministry of Agriculture & Farmers Welfare
Ministry of Agriculture & Farmers Welfare runs 3 other programs listed on startupfunds — compare them before you decide where to apply.
Alternatives to NEST: Startup Training Program
Not sure NEST: Startup Training Program is the right fit, or already applied? These are other grants open to Indian startups that founders shortlist alongside it.
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