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Startup-specific scheme · DRDO, Ministry of Defence

Technology Development Fund (TDF)

Open nowChecked 3 October 2026

Applications are invited on the TDF portal against DRDO-published topics, each with its own deadline; several close in October 2026. The ceiling is ₹50 crore per project (raised from ₹10 crore in June 2022 — the June 2026 playbook still shows ₹10 crore), covering up to 90% of project cost; industry can partner with academia or other companies in a consortium.

Amount
Up to ₹50 crore per project
Type of support
Grant
Best for
Prototype / PoC, Seed / Early-Stage
Who can apply
DPIIT-recognised startups, Early-stage startups, MSMEs
Go to the official portalSource: DPIIT playbook p. 56

Technology Development Fund (TDF) is a government scheme that gives funding and support to Indian companies and startups to develop defence technologies locally so the country can reduce dependence on imports and strengthen self-reliance.

Who can apply?
  • Public limited company, a private limited company, a partnership firm, a limited liability partnership, one-person company, sole proprietorship registered as per applicable Indian laws.
  • DPIIT recognised startups that should be incubated at one of the Central/State Government assisted incubators.
  • At least 50% of the shares of the startup must be owned and controlled by Indian citizens.
What do you get?
  • The funding will be through provision of grants.
  • Funding of up to ₹50 crore per project (raised from ₹10 crore in June 2022), covering up to 90% of the project cost.
  • Aims to provide financial assistance to startups for prototype development and trials.
How to apply

Application process for the TDF is digitized. Applicants can register on the TDF portal - https://tdf.drdo.gov.in/

Objectives

The TDF Scheme has been established to promote self-reliance in defence technology as a part of the 'Make in India' initiative. The Scheme enlists requirements of Service Headquarters (SHQs) of upgrading products/ systems and futuristic defence technologies as Projects for which eligible stakeholders can apply through their platform.

Key links

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

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