The NIDHI-PRAYAS (National Initiative for Developing and Harnessing Innovations – PRomoting and Accelerating Young and Aspiring Innovators & Startups) grant, initiated by the Department of Science and Technology (DST), Government of India, aims to support budding entrepreneurs and innovators in transforming their innovative ideas into marketable prototypes. This grant is an incredible opportunity for early-stage startups and innovators in the science and technology sectors to receive financial and infrastructural support for their projects. Here’s everything you need to know about the NIDHI-PRAYAS grant, including eligibility criteria, grant amount, the application process, and more.
Overview of the NIDHI-PRAYAS Grant
The NIDHI-PRAYAS program provides funding for innovators to develop a minimum viable product (MVP) or prototype, which is essential in advancing their ideas towards market-readiness. This grant is designed to help aspiring entrepreneurs bridge the gap between concept and commercialization by offering financial assistance and access to PRAYAS Centers (PCs) for prototyping and incubation support.
- Granting Organization: Department of Science and Technology (DST), Government of India
- Program Objective: To foster innovation and support the development of early-stage, science and technology-focused products through prototype creation.
Key Features of the NIDHI-PRAYAS Grant
- Grant Amount: Up to INR 10 lakhs per project, specifically for developing a working prototype or MVP.
- Funding Usage: The grant funds can be used to cover prototype development costs, such as product design, fabrication, testing, and materials. However, the funds cannot be used for supporting salaries, marketing, or manufacturing expenses.
- Prototyping Support: Access to PRAYAS Centers (PCs) across India, providing innovators with access to resources, mentors, and technical facilities for efficient prototype development.
Eligibility Criteria
To qualify for the NIDHI-PRAYAS grant, applicants must meet the following eligibility requirements:
- Individual Innovators and Startups:
- Indian citizens above 18 years of age.
- Individuals or startups with innovative ideas focused on science and technology, with no previous commercialization.
- Early-Stage Innovators: The project must be in the prototype development stage (not yet ready for commercialization or revenue generation).
- Educational Institutions and Incubators:
- Students and researchers associated with recognized academic institutions or incubators may apply through their affiliated institutions.
- Restrictions:
- Innovators with prior funding for the same project from other government programs are not eligible.
- Individuals or entities generating revenue from the product in question or using the grant solely for ideation or research are not eligible.
Application Process and Timeline
- Locate a PRAYAS Center (PC):
- NIDHI-PRAYAS grants are managed through PRAYAS Centers (PCs) across India. Applicants must choose a PC that will act as their host institution for the grant.
- A list of PRAYAS Centers is available on the NIDHI-DST website for applicants to identify a suitable center near them.
- Application Submission:
- Visit the official website of the selected PRAYAS Center to submit an application.
- Required Documents include a project proposal, financial estimates, and proof of eligibility, such as identity proof and educational qualifications.
- Evaluation and Selection:
- Applications are reviewed based on the innovation’s potential impact, technical feasibility, and alignment with the NIDHI-PRAYAS objectives.
- Shortlisted candidates may be invited to present their ideas to an expert committee at the PRAYAS Center.
- Project Timeline:
- Duration: Projects supported by NIDHI-PRAYAS are typically expected to achieve prototype completion within 18 months of receiving the grant.
- Regular progress updates and reviews are conducted to ensure efficient use of funds and timely prototype development.
Important Deadlines
- Application Cycles: PRAYAS Centers conduct multiple application cycles per year. Applicants should check the respective PRAYAS Center’s website or the NIDHI-DST official page for specific deadlines and cycle details.
- Application Deadline: While there is no single deadline, most PRAYAS Centers have a rolling application process, with multiple rounds annually. It is recommended to apply early in the year to maximize chances.
Why Apply for the NIDHI-PRAYAS Grant?
The NIDHI-PRAYAS grant offers aspiring entrepreneurs and researchers several advantages, including:
- Financial Support for Prototyping: Up to INR 10 lakhs to develop a working prototype or MVP, crucial for progressing from idea to market.
- Access to Prototyping Facilities: PRAYAS Centers provide technical resources, mentorship, and workspace for innovators to build their prototypes.
- Networking and Mentorship: Grant recipients benefit from networking opportunities and mentorship from industry experts and successful entrepreneurs.
How to Get Started
If you’re an early-stage innovator or startup with a groundbreaking idea in science or technology, the NIDHI-PRAYAS grant can provide the support you need to turn your vision into reality. Follow these steps to begin:
- Visit the NIDHI-PRAYAS website to learn more about the program and available PRAYAS Centers.
- Identify a PRAYAS Center near you and review their application requirements.
- Prepare a detailed proposal outlining your innovation, prototype development plan, and projected costs.
- Submit your application through the PRAYAS Center’s website and await a response.
For more details and the latest updates on the NIDHI-PRAYAS grant, visit the official NIDHI-DST website: NIDHI-PRAYAS Official Site.
More on PRAYAS Centers (PCs)
The PRAYAS Centers (PCs) act as hubs for innovators to receive hands-on prototyping support. Currently, over 25 PRAYAS Centers are established across India in top research institutions and universities, providing a broad geographic reach. These centers offer:
- Technical Support and Infrastructure: Facilities such as 3D printing, product testing labs, and specialized equipment are made available for prototype development.
- Mentorship and Guidance: PCs also connect innovators with industry experts, advisors, and successful entrepreneurs who can provide insights on product design, testing, and user feedback.
- Peer Network: Innovators gain access to a community of other startups and researchers at the PC, encouraging networking and collaboration.
To locate the nearest PRAYAS Center and understand their specific application process, applicants can refer to the NIDHI-DST website.
Funding Usage Guidelines
The up to INR 10 lakhs provided by the NIDHI-PRAYAS grant is earmarked strictly for prototype development and specific operational expenses:
- Permissible Expenses:
- Design and Fabrication: Costs for raw materials, components, and manufacturing processes.
- Testing and Validation: Funding for equipment or external services needed to test product functionality, safety, and reliability.
- Essential Travel: Travel costs incurred for prototyping, validation, or meeting with technical consultants (subject to approval).
- Non-Permissible Expenses:
- Operational Expenses: No funding for routine operational costs, including salaries, office rentals, or overheads.
- Marketing and Distribution: Expenditures related to marketing, advertising, or early-stage distribution cannot be covered by the grant.
- Product Manufacturing: Only prototype development is covered; mass production falls outside the grant’s scope.
Expected Outcomes and Milestones
The NIDHI-PRAYAS grant recipients are required to achieve certain project milestones and report regularly to the PRAYAS Center. Key outcomes expected include:
- Prototype Development: Creation of a functional, testable prototype or MVP ready for further refinement or pilot testing.
- Progress Reviews: Regular updates on project status, challenges encountered, and adjustments made during the prototyping phase.
- End-of-Project Report: A comprehensive report at the end of the grant period, including prototype photos, test results, and insights gained.
Successful completion can open doors to further funding opportunities such as NIDHI-EIR (Entrepreneur In Residence) or NIDHI-Seed Support, which provide additional financial support for product scaling and commercialization.
Additional Resources and Links
For more details, FAQs, and access to application forms, visit:
- NIDHI-PRAYAS Official Website: NIDHI-PRAYAS Home
- Detailed PDF Guide on NIDHI-PRAYAS: NIDHI-PRAYAS Guidelines
Conclusion
The NIDHI-PRAYAS Grant is an invaluable resource for science and technology startups aiming to develop functional prototypes and take their innovations closer to commercialization. With financial support, prototyping resources, and access to expert mentors, this grant empowers aspiring entrepreneurs to make a tangible impact in their respective fields. If you’re eligible and have a promising idea, don’t miss out on this opportunity to apply for the NIDHI-PRAYAS grant and bring your innovation to life.
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