Skip to content
All schemes

Startup-relevant scheme · Department of Science and Technology (DST)

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

ActiveChecked 3 October 2026

No change found in Oct 2026 checks; terms as per the June 2026 playbook. Confirm the current call/window on the official link before applying.

Amount
Up to ₹5 crore over 3 years
Type of support
Grant, Incubation
Best for
Ideation, Prototype / PoC, Seed / Early-Stage
Who can apply
Incubators & institutions
Go to the official portalSource: DPIIT playbook p. 66

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.

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/

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.

Key links

Deadlines, amounts and windows change. Check the official portal before you apply.

Related schemes