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

Science Technology and Innovation (STI) Hubs for Development of Scheduled Caste (SC) and Scheduled Tribe (ST) Communities (STI Hubs)

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
Varies
Type of support
Grant
Best for
Ideation, Prototype / PoC, Seed / Early-Stage
Who can apply
Incubators & institutions, Researchers
Go to the official portalSource: DPIIT playbook p. 97

STI Hubs support local institutions in using science, technology, and innovation to improve livelihoods, preserve community knowledge, and create practical development solutions for SC and ST communities.

Who can apply?
  • Local Academic or S&T institutions, R&D Labs, S&T based Voluntary Organizations (NGOs) etc. having majority of SC or ST population in their catchment area.
What do you get?
  • Financial support to establish an STI Hub.
  • This support can be used for equipment purchase, creation of small infrastructure, and common facility centres / construction costs for setting up the hub, as per DST norms.
How to apply

Please visit the DST website to know more: https://dst.gov.in/callforproposals/science-technology-and-innovation-sti-hubs-development-scheduled-caste-sc-and

Objectives

To capture the weakest linkages in the predominant livelihood systems of the SC and ST Communities and improving the livelihoods through Science and Technological intervention. To harness, document, research, validate and conserve the Indigenous Knowledge Systems (IKS), skills and practices of different communities through inputs of science and technology.

Key links

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

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