Technology Development Fund (TDF)
DRDO, Ministry of Defence
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.
What changed: Correction: ₹50 crore per project (playbook says ₹10 crore)
Sources (2)
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.
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.
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/