DST-NIDHI Seed Support Programme at SINE, IIT Bombay
SINE IIT Bombay's NIDHI Seed Support (NIDHI-SSP) call: equity/CCPS seed funding up to ₹1 crore for DPIIT-recognised startups for prototyping, product trials and commercialization.
- Funding amount
- ₹1Cr (equity)
- Funding type
- Equity
- Provider
- SINE, IIT Bombay (Academic)
- Application deadline
- Closed (25 Jun 2026)
- Eligible stage
- Any stage
- Location
- Open to startups registered in India
Overview
SINE, the technology business incubator at IIT Bombay, in partnership with the Department of Science & Technology, runs the NIDHI Seed Support Programme. This programme targets DPIIT-recognised startups that need seed-stage capital to move from an idea to a market-ready product. Funding is provided as equity or convertible preference shares (CCPS/OCPS), released in tranches linked to specific milestones. Startups must sign a Seed Support Agreement before receiving any money. Acceptable uses of funds include product development, staff salaries, marketing, mentoring, professional services, and contingencies (capped at 10% of the total). Non-incubated companies that are selected must incubate with SINE, either physically or virtually, to receive funding. Applications are accepted online through the SINE platform, and the current call is open until 25 June 2026.
Highlights
- Equity/CCPS seed funding up to ₹1 crore
- Milestone-linked disbursement in tranches
- Mandatory DPIIT recognition required
- Non-incubated startups must join SINE incubation (physical or virtual)
- Apply by 25 June 2026 through the SINE portal
- Not for subsidiaries of foreign/MNC companies
Who can apply
To apply, a startup must be a private limited company registered in India, with Indian promoters holding at least 51% of the equity. The startup must also be registered with DPIIT; if it is not yet registered, it must obtain a DPIIT recognition number before funding can be released. Startups that have previously received funding from any NIDHI seed support programme are not eligible. Subsidiaries of foreign companies or multinational corporations cannot apply. The programme is focused on technology startups at the proof-of-concept, prototype development, or commercial trial stages. No specific industry, state, or MSME registration requirement is mentioned.
DST-NIDHI Seed Support Programme at SINE, IIT Bombay 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 Programme at SINE, IIT Bombay closed on 25 Jun 2026. Many programmes run repeat cohorts, so it is worth checking the official site for the next round.
What the funding covers
Selected startups receive equity investment of up to ₹1 crore, disbursed milestone-wise in tranches after signing the Seed Support Agreement. They also gain incubation support at SINE, including mentorship, professional services, and fundraising assistance. Fund utilisation for product development, marketing, salaries, and professional services is allowed, subject to a 10% cap on contingency costs.
About the provider
DST-NIDHI Seed Support Programme at SINE, IIT Bombay is offered by SINE, IIT Bombay, an academic institution. It is delivered directly by SINE, IIT Bombay as a equity. 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 Programme at SINE, IIT Bombay, 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 Programme at SINE, IIT Bombay is best suited for startups in India seeking an equity investment of ₹1Cr. If that describes your startup, review the eligibility criteria above before applying.
Frequently asked questions
What type of funding is offered?
The funding is equity-based, provided in the form of equity shares or Compulsory/Convertible Preference Shares (CCPS/OCPS). It is disbursed in instalments tied to achieving specific milestones.
How much funding can a startup receive?
A startup can receive up to ₹1 crore in seed funding.
What is the application deadline?
The current call is open until 25 June 2026.
Who is eligible to apply?
Eligible applicants are Indian private limited companies with at least 51% Indian promoter shareholding and DPIIT recognition. Subsidiaries of foreign companies or multinational corporations are not allowed.
Can a startup that has already received NIDHI seed support from another incubator apply?
No, startups that have previously received funding from any NIDHI seed support programme are not eligible.
Does the programme require DPIIT or MSME registration?
DPIIT registration is mandatory. MSME registration is not specified as a requirement.
What can the funds be used for?
Funds can be used for product development, staff salaries, marketing, mentoring, professional services, and contingencies (up to 10% of the total funding).
Is incubation at SINE mandatory?
Yes, startups that are not already incubated with SINE must incubate with SINE (either physically or virtually) to receive the funding.
What documents are typically needed for application?
An online application is submitted via the SINE platform. Specific document requirements are not detailed, but you will likely need business details and your DPIIT certificate.
How and where do I apply?
Apply online through the SINE applicant platform at the URL provided in the programme details.
Does DST-NIDHI Seed Support Programme at SINE, IIT Bombay take equity?
Yes. DST-NIDHI Seed Support Programme at SINE, IIT Bombay is an equity-based investment, meaning the provider takes an ownership stake in exchange for funding. Review the specific terms before accepting.
Who offers DST-NIDHI Seed Support Programme at SINE, IIT Bombay?
DST-NIDHI Seed Support Programme at SINE, IIT Bombay is offered by SINE, IIT Bombay, an academic institution. It is provided as an investment.
How do I apply for DST-NIDHI Seed Support Programme at SINE, IIT Bombay?
Apply directly through the official application link on this page. Review the eligibility criteria and prepare your startup documents before you begin.
More funding from SINE, IIT Bombay
SINE, IIT Bombay runs 6 other programs listed on startupfunds — compare them before you decide where to apply.
Alternatives to DST-NIDHI Seed Support Programme at SINE, IIT Bombay
Not sure DST-NIDHI Seed Support Programme at SINE, IIT Bombay is the right fit, or already applied? These are other equity open to Indian startups that founders shortlist alongside it.
Questions from founders
Ask anything about eligibility, documents or the process — answered by the community.
No questions yet — be the first to ask.