Scheme Overview & Objective
The NIDHI PRAYAS 2.0 - Prototype Development Grant for Technology Innovators is a premier national initiative launched by the Department of Science and Technology (DST), Government of India. Designed to bridge the critical gap between conceptual ideas and commercially viable products, this programme supports prototype development for technology-based startups and innovators across the country.
Operating through designated PRAYAS Centres (PCs) and Advance PRAYAS Centres (APCs) distributed across India, the scheme provides vital financial assistance, rigorous expert mentoring, sophisticated laboratory infrastructure, and comprehensive intellectual property guidance. By supporting innovators in validating their concepts and building functional prototypes, NIDHI PRAYAS 2.0 accelerates deep-tech innovations, indigenous technologies, and market-ready solutions aligned with national growth missions like Atmanirbhar Bharat.
Eligibility Criteria & Scope
Navigating government funding requires strict adherence to eligibility parameters. To qualify for the NIDHI PRAYAS 2.0 - Prototype Development Grant, applicants must meet the following mandatory criteria:
- Citizenship: The applicant must be an Indian Citizen.
- Entity Structure: Eligible applicants include individual innovators, startups, Proprietorships, Partnership Firms, LLPs, and Private Limited Companies.
- Innovation Focus: The proposed project must feature a technology-based product or solution with clear commercialization potential.
- Development Stage: Applicants should possess a novel idea that explicitly requires prototype development and rigorous validation.
- Target Domains: Priority is given to projects involving Artificial Intelligence, Healthcare, Manufacturing, Agriculture, IoT, Clean Technology, Energy, Robotics, Quantum Computing, and Defence Technologies.
- Funding Exclusivity: Applicants must not have already received similar prototype funding for the same idea from another government scheme.
- Originality & Impact: The proposed innovation must demonstrate high originality, scalability, and measurable societal or industrial impact.
- Channel Submission: Applications must be submitted through an approved PRAYAS Centre (PC) or Advance PRAYAS Centre (APC).
Key Financial & Growth Benefits
The NIDHI PRAYAS 2.0 scheme delivers extensive financial and operational benefits designed to propel early-stage innovations directly into the market:
- Grant-in-Aid: Secure up to 10 lakh in non-dilutive grant funding for prototype development without giving up equity.
- Infrastructure Access: Gain direct access to advanced laboratories, fabrication facilities, maker spaces, and specialized technical equipment.
- Expert Mentorship: Receive continuous guidance from startup veterans, industry leaders, and seasoned entrepreneurs.
- Technical Validation: Utilize professional support for prototype design, product testing, and iterative refinement.
- IP & Patent Support: Obtain critical technical and legal assistance for intellectual property management and patent filing.
- Ecosystem Networking: Connect seamlessly with investors, incubators, corporate partners, and premier research institutions.
- Commercial Readiness: Transform raw technical concepts into market-ready products and prepare for high-stage incubation programmes.
Application Procedure & Documents
Preparing a compliant application package is crucial for approval under the NIDHI PRAYAS 2.0 framework. Ensure you assemble the required documentation meticulously before submission through your chosen PRAYAS Centre.
Mandatory Document Checklist
- Duly filled NIDHI PRAYAS application form.
- Valid Aadhaar Card and PAN Card of the applicant.
- Detailed Project Proposal describing the technical innovation.
- Comprehensive Prototype Development Plan with clear milestones.
- Business Plan or Executive Summary outlining market viability.
- Pitch Deck or Presentation of the proposed technology.
- Company Incorporation Certificate / LLP Registration / Partnership Deed (where applicable).
- Proof of Indian Citizenship.
- Academic or Technical Qualification Certificates (where applicable).
- Bank Account Details for direct grant disbursement.
- Any Intellectual Property (Patent/Application) details, if already available.
- Additional compliance documents requested by the specific PRAYAS Centre or Advance PRAYAS Centre.
For detailed step-by-step guidance on submitting your proposal, review the official portal guidelines via NIDHI PRAYAS 2.0 Scheme Hub.
Official FAQs
What is the maximum financial grant provided under NIDHI PRAYAS 2.0?
The scheme provides a prototype development grant-in-aid of up to 10 lakh to eligible innovators and startups.
Who is eligible to apply for this prototype grant?
Indian citizens, individual innovators, startups, proprietorships, partnerships, LLPs, and private limited companies with novel, technology-based ideas requiring prototype validation can apply.
Do I need to give up equity in exchange for the grant funding?
No, the financial assistance is provided as a grant-in-aid without any equity dilution.
How do I submit my application?
Applications must be routed and submitted through an approved PRAYAS Centre (PC) or Advance PRAYAS Centre (APC) located across India.
