NIDHI Seed Support Program (NIDHI-SSP)

The NIDHI Seed Support Program (NIDHI-SSP), spearheaded by the IIM Lucknow Enterprise Incubation Centre (IIML EIC), is an equity-focused seed funding initiative. It operates under the Department of Science and Technology's National Initiative for Developing and Harnessing Innovations (NIDHI) framework. This program is specifically designed to empower and accelerate promising DeepTech startups by providing crucial early-stage capital alongside comprehensive incubation and ecosystem support.

Selected startups can secure an equity-based investment of up to ₹25 lakhs. This funding is intended to facilitate technology validation, bolster product development efforts, and prepare ventures for successful market entry and subsequent scaling.

Beyond financial backing, participants gain access to IIML EIC's extensive incubation ecosystem. This includes valuable resources such as curated startup toolkits, specialized legal, intellectual property rights (IPR), and financial advisory services. Startups can also leverage advanced infrastructure, including supercomputing facilities, IoT labs, and 3D printing capabilities. The program further provides structured mentorship, extensive networking opportunities, and avenues for corporate engagement, all aimed at fostering innovation-driven enterprises with strong technological differentiation and long-term scalability. The ultimate goal is to enable these ventures to transition effectively from nascent development stages into robust, growth-ready businesses.

• Equity-based seed funding up to ₹25 lakhs.
• Targets DeepTech startups.
• Requires DPIIT-registered status.
• Mandatory incubation at IIM Lucknow Enterprise Incubation Centre.
• Founders must be Indian citizens holding at least 51% equity.
• Application deadline is February 12, 2026.

To be considered for the NIDHI Seed Support Program, applicants must meet specific criteria:

• The startup must be officially registered with the Department for Promotion of Industry and Internal Trade (DPIIT) and operate within the DeepTech sector.
• Applicants should either be currently incubated at the IIM Lucknow Enterprise Incubation Centre or be prepared to join IIML EIC's incubation program upon selection.
• Founders are required to be Indian citizens, and their collective equity holding in the startup must be a minimum of 51 percent.
• The startup needs to demonstrate significant potential for technological innovation and align with the broader objectives outlined by the DST-NIDHI Seed Support framework.

NIDHI Seed Support Program (NIDHI-SSP) is open to startups at any stage. It is open to startups registered anywhere in India.

The most recent application window for NIDHI Seed Support Program (NIDHI-SSP) closed on 12 Feb 2026. Many programmes run repeat cohorts, so it is worth checking the official site for the next round.

Recipients of the NIDHI Seed Support Program receive an equity-based investment of up to ₹25 lakhs. This capital is strategically allocated to support critical activities such as validating core technology, enhancing product development, and preparing the startup for successful market entry and expansion.

In addition to the financial investment, participating startups benefit from access to IIML EIC's comprehensive incubation ecosystem. This includes:

• Curated startup toolkits designed to streamline various operational aspects.
• Expert support in legal, intellectual property rights (IPR), and financial matters.
• Access to advanced infrastructure, such as supercomputing facilities, Internet of Things (IoT) labs, and 3D printing capabilities.
• Structured mentorship from experienced professionals.
• Valuable networking opportunities with industry leaders and peers.
• Opportunities for corporate engagement to foster partnerships and growth.

NIDHI Seed Support Program (NIDHI-SSP) is offered by IIM Lucknow Enterprise Incubation Centre, an academic institution. It is delivered directly by IIM Lucknow Enterprise Incubation Centre as a equity. You can verify current details and timelines on the provider's official website before applying.

Before you apply to NIDHI Seed Support Program (NIDHI-SSP), 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.

NIDHI Seed Support Program (NIDHI-SSP) is best suited for startups in India seeking an equity investment of ₹25L. If that describes your startup, review the eligibility criteria above before applying.