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The Scheme Register / i-TBI

Department of Science and Technology (DST)

NIDHI - Inclusive-Technology Business Incubator (i-TBI)

IncubationIdeation · Prototype / PoC · Seed / Early stageStartup-relevant
Support type
Incubation
Best suited for
Incubation (Underserved regions)
How much
Up to ₹5 crore over 3 years to incubator
Where you apply
nidhi.dst.gov.in

What is this scheme?

NIDHI i-TBI supports institutions in underserved regions to set up incubators so local innovators and startups can get the space, funding, and support needed to build new ventures.

Objectives

The NIDHI i-TBI initiative aims to support institutions in regions where innovation and startup incubation ecosystem is at nascent stages and 'Inclusive TBI' can play a vital role in normalizing resources and value creation across the country. The i-TBI would create a culture of innovation and entrepreneurship in the Host Institute (HI) and nearby geographies.

Who can apply (eligibility)

  • The HI is to provide up to 10,000 square feet (minimum 7,000 square feet) of built-up space to host i-TBI in the campus.
  • The HI shall agree to establish separate Section 8 company to professionally manage the i-TBI and will execute a lease agreement between HI and new (Section 8) entity, to lease the space earmarked for the i-TBI to new entity at no cost or at minimum rate for 10 years or beyond.
  • The i-TBI should be capable of accommodating at least 30 innovative ventures/startups.

What do you get?

  • DST will provide the necessary capital fund to establish the infrastructure of i-TBI.
  • The i-TBI is provided with a maximum funding of ₹5 crore over a period of 3 years.
  • Funding for non-recurring expenditure:
  • For private institutions – 50:50 share between DST and HI
  • For public institutions – 75:25 share between DST and HI, respectively.
  • The ignition grant shall be for development of prototype/products.

How to apply

Visit the online portal i.e., https://nidhi.dst.gov.in/

Apply on nidhi.dst.gov.in (opens in a new tab)

You will leave iHub India. Applications are made directly to Department of Science and Technology — iHub India is not part of the process.