Bhopal: The AIC RNTU Foundation has announced the launch of applications for the NIDHI-Seed Support Program (NIDHI-SSP), offering early-stage startups funding opportunities of up to ₹50 lakh.
The initiative, supported by the Department of Science and Technology (DST), Government of India, aims to strengthen India’s startup ecosystem by empowering innovative ventures with financial support, expert mentorship, and market readiness guidance.
AIC RNTU Foundation: Empowering Startups through NIDHI-SSP
Through the NIDHI-SSP, the AIC RNTU Foundation seeks to provide seed funding to incubated startups, enabling them to progress from prototype development to successful commercialization.
Also Read: ACIC VGU Foundation NIDHI Seed Support Program Supports Early-Stage Tech Startups
The program functions as a bridge between innovation and market entry, helping startups become investment-ready and secure funding from angel investors, venture capital firms, and financial institutions.
Eligibility Criteria for Startups
To apply for the NIDHI-SSP through AIC RNTU Foundation, startups must meet the following requirements:
- Must be a DPIIT-registered Indian company.
- At least 51% of the shareholding must be with Indian promoters.
- The startup must demonstrate a validated Unique Selling Proposition (USP) and value proposition through customer feedback.
- OCI and PIO holders will be considered Indian citizens under this scheme.
- Subsidiaries of MNCs/foreign companies are not eligible.
- Preference will be given to startups without prior government funding support.
Also Read: Accel Atoms AI and Atoms X Tracks Open with USD 1M Funding for Indian-Origin Founders
Areas of Financial Assistance under NIDHI-SSP
The seed support offered by the AIC RNTU Foundation covers multiple critical areas, including:
- Technology and Product Development: Support for R&D, prototyping, and product refinement.
- Market Entry and Scale-Up: Assistance with marketing strategies, distribution, and expansion to new markets.
- Mentorship and IPR Issues: Coverage of expenses related to expert guidance, legal advisory, and intellectual property rights (IPR).
- Other Approved Areas: Any additional activities recommended by the Seed Support Management Committee.
Applications for the NIDHI-SSP are currently open, providing startups with an opportunity to access essential funding and support needed to accelerate their entrepreneurial journey.
