Startup Schemes Playbook
Part B · Startup-relevant scheme

NIDHI - Inclusive-Technology Business Incubator (NIDHI i-TBI)

Department of Science and Technology (DST)

Incubation IdeationPrototype / PoCSeed / Early-Stage

NIDHI i-TBI supports institutions in underserved regions to set up incubators so local innovators and startups can get the space, funding, and support needed to build new ventures.

Type of support
Incubation
Best suited for
Incubation (Underserved regions)
Headline amount
Up to ₹5 crore over 3 years
How much
Up to ₹5 crore over 3 years to incubator
Source
Playbook p. 66

Objectives

The NIDHI i-TBI initiative aims to support institutions in regions where innovation and startup incubation ecosystem is at nascent stages and ‘Inclusive TBI’ can play a vital role in normalizing resources and value creation across the country. The i-TBI would create a culture of innovation and entrepreneurship in the Host Institute (HI) and nearby geographies.

Who can apply?

  • The HI is to provide up to 10,000 square feet (minimum 7,000 square feet) of built-up space to host i-TBI in the campus.
  • The HI shall agree to establish separate Section 8 company to professionally manage the i-TBI and will execute a lease agreement between HI and new (Section 8) entity, to lease the space earmarked for the i-TBI to new entity at no cost or at minimum rate for 10 years or beyond.
  • The i-TBI should be capable of accommodating at least 30 innovative ventures/startups.

What do you get?

  • DST will provide the necessary capital fund to establish the infrastructure of i-TBI.
  • The i-TBI is provided with a maximum funding of ₹5 crore over a period of 3 years.
  • Funding for non-recurring expenditure:
  • For private institutions – 50:50 share between DST and HI
  • For public institutions – 75:25 share between DST and HI, respectively.
  • The ignition grant shall be for development of prototype/products.

How to apply

Visit the online portal i.e., https://nidhi.dst.gov.in/

Go to official portal