Scheme Overview & Objective
The DSIR PRISM (Promoting Innovations in Individuals, Start-ups and MSMEs) scheme is a flagship initiative by the Department of Scientific and Industrial Research (DSIR), under the Ministry of Science & Technology, Government of India. Designed to foster indigenous innovation, PRISM provides non-dilutive grants up to ₹50 Lakh to support the development of novel technologies in critical sectors like energy, healthcare, agriculture, and manufacturing.
Structured into Phase I (Proof of Concept) and Phase II (Prototype Development), the scheme offers equity-free funding, mentorship, and access to advanced prototyping facilities through a nationwide network of TePP Outreach cum Cluster Innovation Centres (TOCICs).
Eligibility Criteria & Scope
To qualify for DSIR PRISM, applicants must meet the following criteria:
- Applicant Type: Open to Indian citizens (individuals, students, engineers, doctors), registered startups, and MSMEs incorporated in India.
- Innovation Mandate: The proposed technology must be indigenous, novel, and technologically feasible with clear commercial applications.
- Environmental Compliance: Projects must be environmentally sustainable and aligned with national resource efficiency goals.
- TOCIC Affiliation: Applications must be routed through the nearest TOCIC centre.
- Funding History: Clean utilization record of prior government grants (if applicable).
Key Financial & Growth Benefits
DSIR PRISM offers transformative benefits for innovators:
- Phased Funding: Grants ranging from ₹2 Lakh to ₹50 Lakh based on technology readiness levels.
- Equity Retention: 100% ownership of intellectual property and commercial rights.
- Technical Support: Access to CSIR labs, IITs, and advanced testing facilities.
- Incubation Pathway: Seamless integration with DSIR-supported technology business incubators.
- National Recognition: Endorsement by Ministry of Science & Technology scientific committees.
Application Procedure & Documents
Follow this step-by-step process for 2026 applications:
Step 1: Identify Nearest TOCIC
Locate your nearest TOCIC centre for mandatory affiliation and pre-application mentoring.
Step 2: Prepare Mandatory Documents
- Applicant KYC: Aadhaar, PAN, residence proof.
- Entity Proof: Udyam Certificate (MSMEs) or incorporation documents (startups).
- Project Proposal: Detailed PRISM proposal form with novelty analysis and patent search.
- Financial Plan: Phase-wise cost breakdown and milestone schedule.
- Bank Details: Cancelled cheque and account verification.
- TOCIC Endorsement: Recommendation report from assigned TOCIC coordinator.
Step 3: Submit Application
Submit applications through the official DSIR PRISM portal or designated TOCIC channels. Ensure all documents are digitally verified and cross-referenced with the TOCIC coordinator.
Official FAQs
Q1: Can student innovators apply individually?
Yes, students can apply as individual innovators provided they submit valid educational credentials and route applications through a TOCIC.
Q2: Is collateral required for funding?
No, DSIR PRISM is a collateral-free grant with no equity dilution requirements.
Q3: How are funds disbursed?
Grants are released in milestones tied to project deliverables and verified by the assigned TOCIC centre.
Q4: Can startups apply for both phases simultaneously?
No, applicants must complete Phase I (Proof of Concept) before becoming eligible for Phase II funding.