Research, Development & Innovation (RDI) Scheme

The Research, Development & Innovation (RDI) Scheme provides funding and support to help organizations create and improve new technologies or ideas so they can boost innovation, economic growth, and global competitiveness.

• DST has launched the Research, Development, and Innovation (RDI) Scheme, approved by the Cabinet on 1st July 2025, with a total outlay of ₹1 lakh crore.
• The initiative aims to catalyze private sector participation in high-impact R&D and strengthen India's capabilities in strategic technologies and promote technological self-reliance, aligning with the nation's long-term innovation and Atmanirbhar Bharat vision.

• The RDI Fund is provided to Second Level Fund Managers (SLFM) which include Alternative Investment Funds (AIFs), Development Finance Institutions (DFIs), Non-Banking Financial Companies (NBFCs), and Focused Research Organisations (FROs).
• The SLFM then provides funds to private companies including DPIIT recognised startups advancing RDI-intensive technologies.

• Loan – Debt funding (via loan or optionally convertible debt) from the SLFM, calculated as 50% of the project cost.
• Equity – Funding via equity or equity linked instruments from the SLFM, calculated as 50% of the value of each funding round.

1. 01Visit - https://rdifund.anrf.gov.in/images/pdf/RDIF-%20AIF_and_FOF.pdf
2. 02Startups can apply directly through the SLFMs, for instance the Technology Development Board (TDB) (https://www.e-techcom.tdb.gov.in/rdif-registration.php

• Website: rdifund.anrf.gov.in (opens in a new tab)
• Operational Guidelines: rdifund.anrf.gov.in (opens in a new tab)