DST NIDHI Seed Support (SS) Program at AgHub PJTAU
Financial aid up to ₹40L plus ecosystem support for early-stage agri-tech startups incubated at AgHub.
- Funding amount
- ₹40L (grant)
- Funding type
- Grant
- Provider
- Agri Innovation Hub, PJTAU (Academic)
- Application deadline
- Closed (15 Sept 2025)
- Eligible stage
- Any stage
- Location
- Open to startups registered in India
Overview
The DST NIDHI Seed Support (SS) Program, hosted by the Agri Innovation Hub (AgHub) at PJTAU, provides seed-stage grants of up to ₹40 lakh to early‑stage agriculture and agri‑tech startups. The funding is intended for product development, market validation, and scaling activities. Along with the financial support, the program opens access to a rich network of scientific mentors, agribusiness experts, farmers, and potential investors, helping founders commercialise their innovations and accelerate growth. The initiative is part of the national NIDHI scheme of the Department of Science & Technology, aimed at nurturing technology-driven startups.
AgHub focuses on ventures with a validated Unique Selling Proposition and strong customer feedback. The program runs entirely through the incubator’s resident or virtual incubation track, and startups must have been associated with AgHub for at least 3 months before applying.
Highlights
- Grants up to ₹40 lakh per startup for agri and agri-tech ventures.
- Open only to companies already associated with AgHub incubator for at least 3 months.
- Inventors must have USP validated by customer feedback.
- Majority 51% Indian promoter holding required.
- Non-government funded and non-MNC subsidiaries get preference.
- Part of the DST NIDHI Seed Support Scheme, focused on early-stage commercialisation.
Who can apply
Only companies registered in India can apply, and startups with DPIIT registration are preferred. The applicant must have completed minimum 3 months of association with AgHub PJTAU (through its resident or virtual incubation programme). The startup must possess a clear and validated Unique Selling Proposition supported by customer feedback. Indian promoters must hold at least 51% of the equity. Ventures that are Indian subsidiaries of MNCs or foreign companies are not eligible. Preference is given to startups that have not previously received government funding.
DST NIDHI Seed Support (SS) Program at AgHub PJTAU 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 DST NIDHI Seed Support (SS) Program at AgHub PJTAU closed on 15 Sept 2025. Many programmes run repeat cohorts, so it is worth checking the official site for the next round.
What the funding covers
- Grant funding – financial assistance up to ₹40 lakh for early-stage product development, market validation, and scaling activities.
- Mentorship – access to scientific and agribusiness mentors.
- Ecosystem connect – linkages to farmers, investors, and other stakeholders in the agriculture sector.
- Incubation support – startups continue to benefit from the resident or virtual incubation environment at AgHub.
About the provider
DST NIDHI Seed Support (SS) Program at AgHub PJTAU is offered by Agri Innovation Hub, PJTAU, an academic institution. It is delivered directly by Agri Innovation Hub, PJTAU as a grant. You can verify current details and timelines on the provider's official website before applying.
Documents you’ll need
Before you apply to DST NIDHI Seed Support (SS) Program at AgHub PJTAU, 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 (SS) Program at AgHub PJTAU is best suited for startups in India seeking non-dilutive funding of ₹40L. If that describes your startup, review the eligibility criteria above before applying.
Frequently asked questions
What is the maximum funding amount under the DST NIDHI Seed Support Program at AgHub PJTAU?
The program offers a grant of up to ₹40 lakh to eligible early-stage agri-tech startups.
Who can apply for this seed support program?
Only Indian-registered companies that have been associated with the AgHub incubator for at least 3 months can apply. DPIIT registration is preferred. The startup must have a validated Unique Selling Proposition, at least 51% ownership by Indian promoters, and must not be a subsidiary of an MNC or a foreign company.
What is the application deadline?
The last date to apply is 15 September 2025.
Does the program take equity from the startup?
No, the funding is provided as a grant under the DST NIDHI scheme, so no equity is taken from the startup.
Is DPIIT registration mandatory?
DPIIT registration is not mandatory, but it is preferred and will likely strengthen your application.
Can a startup that has already received government funding apply?
Preference is given to startups that have not previously received government funding, but it is not explicitly prohibited. However, meeting other eligibility criteria is required.
Which sectors or industries are supported?
The program specifically targets startups working in agriculture, agri-tech, and related sectors.
How can I apply for the program?
Applications are accepted through the official Google Form provided by AgHub PJTAU. Please apply via the following link: https://docs.google.com/forms/d/e/1FAIpQLSfKjfp2yJtdw3cIq5aBjLyg6FCKdGQIseVTWcKvBXtHnwxlVg/viewform
What documents are typically needed for the application?
The specific document list is not provided in the program details, but you can expect to need company incorporation certificate, any proof of association with AgHub (like signed MoU or certificate), product validation documents, financial statements/pitch deck, and DPIIT registration if available.
Who offers DST NIDHI Seed Support (SS) Program at AgHub PJTAU?
DST NIDHI Seed Support (SS) Program at AgHub PJTAU is offered by Agri Innovation Hub, PJTAU, an academic institution. It is provided as non-dilutive funding.
Alternatives to DST NIDHI Seed Support (SS) Program at AgHub PJTAU
Not sure DST NIDHI Seed Support (SS) Program at AgHub PJTAU is the right fit, or already applied? These are other grants open to Indian startups that founders shortlist alongside it.
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