NIDHI Seed Support Program (NIDHI-SSP) at CIBA
Seed funding grant for DPIIT-registered startups incubated at CIBA, up to ₹40L.
- Funding amount
- ₹10L – ₹40L (grant)
- Funding type
- Grant
- Provider
- CIBA (Government)
- Application deadline
- Closed (21 Sept 2025)
- Eligible stage
- Any stage
- Location
- Open to startups registered in India
Overview
The NIDHI-Seed Support Program (NIDHI-SSP) is a flagship initiative of the National Science & Technology Entrepreneurship Development Board (NSTEDB), supported by the Department of Science and Technology (DST). It provides seed funding to early-stage, tech-driven startups through incubators like CIBA. The program helps startups move from Proof of Concept (PoC) to Minimum Viable Product (MVP) and finally to Go-To-Market (GTM) stage. By offering financial assistance and support, it prepares startups for future investments from venture capitalists or loans from commercial banks.
Highlights
- Grant funding from ₹10L to ₹40L, no equity dilution.
- Applicable for tech startups incubated at CIBA for at least 3 months.
- Targets PoC-to-MVP and GTM transition stages.
- DPIIT registration preferred but not mandatory.
- Open to PIO/OCI as Indian promoters.
- Deadline: 2025-09-21.
Who can apply
The startup must be registered in India, preferably with DPIIT registration. It must have completed at least 3 months of association with CIBA's resident or virtual incubator program. Indian promoters must hold at least 51% shareholding. The startup should have clarity on its Unique Selling Proposition (USP) through customer validation. Subsidiaries of foreign companies are not eligible, but Persons of Indian Origin (PIO) and Overseas Citizens of India (OCI) are considered Indian citizens for this scheme.
NIDHI Seed Support Program (NIDHI-SSP) at CIBA 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 NIDHI Seed Support Program (NIDHI-SSP) at CIBA closed on 21 Sept 2025. Many programmes run repeat cohorts, so it is worth checking the official site for the next round.
What the funding covers
Selected startups receive a grant of ₹10L – ₹40L to support product development, market validation, and initial commercialisation activities. The funding is non-dilutive, meaning no equity is taken in return. Additionally, startups gain access to CIBA's incubation infrastructure, mentorship, and networking opportunities.
About the provider
NIDHI Seed Support Program (NIDHI-SSP) at CIBA is offered by CIBA, 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.
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 submitted online via the CIBA portal. The selection committee reviews each application based on technology novelty, market potential, team capability, and progress during incubation. Shortlisted startups may be called for a pitch presentation or interview. Final selection is based on the committee's evaluation.
Documents you’ll need
Before you apply to NIDHI Seed Support Program (NIDHI-SSP) at CIBA, 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
NIDHI Seed Support Program (NIDHI-SSP) at CIBA is best suited for startups in India seeking non-dilutive funding of ₹10L – ₹40L. If that describes your startup, review the eligibility criteria above before applying.
Frequently asked questions
How much funding is offered?
The program offers a grant of ₹10L to ₹40L.
Is this a grant or does it take equity?
It is a grant. No equity is taken from the startup.
What is the application deadline?
The deadline for applications is 2025-09-21.
Who can apply?
Early-stage, tech-driven startups registered in India, preferably with DPIIT registration, and incubated at CIBA for at least 3 months. Indian promoters must hold at least 51% shareholding. Subsidiaries of foreign companies are not eligible.
Do I need DPIIT or MSME registration?
DPIIT registration is preferred but not mandatory. MSME registration is not mentioned as a requirement.
What stage should my startup be at?
Your startup should have a Proof of Concept and customer validation, and aim to progress to MVP and go-to-market.
Are PIO/OCI considered Indian citizens?
Yes, Persons of Indian Origin and Overseas Citizens of India are treated as Indian citizens for eligibility.
How do I apply?
Applications are submitted online via the CIBA portal at https://tripetto.app/run/2AIHZRI343.
Who offers NIDHI Seed Support Program (NIDHI-SSP) at CIBA?
NIDHI Seed Support Program (NIDHI-SSP) at CIBA is offered by CIBA, a government body. It is provided as non-dilutive funding.
Alternatives to NIDHI Seed Support Program (NIDHI-SSP) at CIBA
Not sure NIDHI Seed Support Program (NIDHI-SSP) at CIBA is the right fit, or already applied? These are other grants open to Indian startups that founders shortlist alongside it.
Questions from founders
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