NIDHI i-TBI Ignition Grant - ₹10L Equity-Free for Tech Startups

The NIDHI i-TBI Ignition Grant, operated by INurture Incubation Foundation (INIF) with support from the Department of Science & Technology (DST), Government of India, aims to empower early-stage entrepreneurs with groundbreaking technology-based ideas. This program provides critical financial support and strategic guidance to help founders transform their concepts into viable startups, addressing common early-stage challenges such as validation, prototyping, and market entry. By offering a structured environment and necessary resources, the grant seeks to accelerate the development of high-impact solutions across various technology domains. INIF's incubation expertise ensures selected startups receive hands-on support, from product development to business model refinement and market positioning. Ultimately, this initiative strengthens India's innovation ecosystem, bridging the gap between research and commercialization.

• Up to ₹10 Lakhs equity-free grant
• Comprehensive incubation support from INIF
• Mentorship from industry experts and academic leaders
• Supported by Department of Science & Technology (DST)
• Open to innovative technology-based ideas with commercial potential

Startups with innovative technology-based ideas that demonstrate strong potential for impact and commercial viability are eligible. The program is designed for early-stage ventures focused on validating, prototyping, and launching their products. Applicants should be committed to developing their startup with expert guidance from INIF.

NIDHI i-TBI Ignition Grant - ₹10L Equity-Free for Tech Startups is open to startups at any stage. It is open to startups registered anywhere in India.

Applications for NIDHI i-TBI Ignition Grant - ₹10L Equity-Free for Tech Startups are open and the current deadline is Closes in 4d (5 Aug 2026). Applications are closing soon, so prepare your documents early. Deadlines can change — always reconfirm on the official source before submitting.

Selected startups receive up to ₹10 Lakhs in non-repayable cash funding, which can be used for essential expenses like R&D, prototype development, market research, and initial operational costs. In addition, the program offers comprehensive incubation support from INIF, including access to state-of-the-art facilities, a co-working environment, and dedicated mentorship from seasoned entrepreneurs, industry experts, and academic leaders. This mentorship covers technology development, business model validation, intellectual property strategy, and market access, equipping founders with the knowledge and networks needed to build successful enterprises and attract future funding.

NIDHI i-TBI Ignition Grant - ₹10L Equity-Free for Tech Startups is offered by INurture Incubation Foundation (INIF). It is delivered directly by INurture Incubation Foundation (INIF) as a grant.

The selection process is rigorous and multi-faceted. Applications are first screened by an expert panel at INIF to ensure they meet eligibility criteria and align with the program's focus on innovation and technology. This review evaluates the novelty of the idea, technological feasibility, market potential, and team capabilities. Shortlisted applicants may be invited for virtual or in-person interviews and presentations to a jury comprising industry veterans, investors, and subject matter experts from DST and INIF. During these interactions, applicants elaborate on their problem statement, solution, competitive advantage, business model, and proposed use of funds. Final selections prioritize ideas that demonstrate clear innovation, a scalable business model, a dedicated founding team, and high likelihood of commercial success and societal benefit. Decisions are made collaboratively to foster a diverse cohort of high-potential startups.

Before you apply to NIDHI i-TBI Ignition Grant - ₹10L Equity-Free for Tech Startups, 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 i-TBI Ignition Grant - ₹10L Equity-Free for Tech Startups is best suited for startups in India seeking non-dilutive funding of ₹10L. If that describes your startup, review the eligibility criteria above before applying.