NIDHI–PRAYAS Programme

NIDHI–PRAYAS
Programme

Overview

The NIDHI–PRAYAS Programme, launched by the Department of Science & Technology (DST), supports young innovators and aspiring entrepreneurs in converting their innovative ideas into proof-of-concepts (PoC) and prototypes.
It provides financial grants, access to incubation facilities, and technical guidance through selected PRAYAS Centres (PCs) hosted at Technology Business Incubators (TBIs).
The goal is to reduce entry barriers for innovators who lack resources and infrastructure to validate their ideas.
Objectives
  • Encourage young innovators to pursue entrepreneurship.
  • Provide early-stage support for developing a prototype/PoC.
  • Enable innovators to test and validate ideas before launching a full-fledged startup.
  • Build a pipeline of investment-ready startups for incubation and further funding.
  • Foster a culture of problem-solving and innovation among youth.
Offerings for Innovators/Startups
  • Grant Support: Up to ₹10 lakh per innovator for prototype development.
  • Incubation Facilities: Access to labs, tools, equipment, co-working spaces, and prototyping facilities at PRAYAS Centres.
  • Mentorship: Technical and business mentoring from experts.
  • Networking & Exposure: Access to other entrepreneurs, investors, and industry partners.
  • Idea Validation: Support to test, refine, and validate innovative ideas.

Eligibility (For Innovators/Applicants)

  • Must be an Indian citizen with valid government ID.
  • Age limit: 18–65 years.
  • Should have an innovative technology-based idea with strong potential for prototype development.
  • Must apply individually or through a team (not as a registered company at idea stage).
  • Not receiving support for the same idea from any other government scheme.
  • Preference to:
  • College students, recent graduates, or early-stage innovators.
  • Ideas addressing social or industrial challenges.
  • Applicants willing to pursue entrepreneurship full-time.

How to Apply for NIDHI–PRAYAS

  1. Find a PRAYAS Centre (PC):
    1. Applications are accepted through approved PRAYAS Centres, usually hosted at TBIs.
    2. A list of PRAYAS Centres is available on the NSTEDB/DST website.
  2. Submit Application:
    1. Share your idea proposal, personal details, and technical background.
    2. Clearly explain how the grant will be used to develop your prototype.
  3. Evaluation:
    1. Applications are screened based on novelty, feasibility, potential impact, and commitment of the innovator.
    2. Shortlisted applicants may need to present their idea to an expert committee.
  4. Selection & Support:
    1. Selected innovators receive a grant (up to ₹10 lakh), along with access to labs, mentorship, and incubation facilities.

Application For Startups and Innovators

Interested Students and Innovators may apply for support under NIDHI – PRAYAS through NIDHI – PRAYAS Centres (at selected TBIs).
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