New Delhi, August 2025 — The Department of Science and Technology (DST), Government of India, has rolled out a range of schemes aimed at strengthening the country’s startup ecosystem, with a special focus on innovation, research commercialization, and deep-tech entrepreneurship. The move aligns with the vision of Atmanirbhar Bharat and complements the National Innovation and Startup Policy.
According to DST officials, these initiatives will provide financial aid, incubation support, and mentorship opportunities for early-stage entrepreneurs, particularly in sectors such as artificial intelligence, healthcare, biotechnology, clean energy, and advanced manufacturing.
Below is a curated list of major DST schemes for startups, along with their official website links:
| Scheme | Objective | Website Link |
|---|---|---|
| NIDHI (National Initiative for Developing and Harnessing Innovations) | Supports idea-to-market journey of startups through incubation, mentoring, and seed funding. | https://nidhi-dst.org |
| PRISM (Promoting Innovations in Individuals, Startups and MSMEs) | Provides grants for innovators to develop prototypes, commercialize products, and secure IP. | https://dst.gov.in/scientific-programmes/scientific-and-engineering-research/prism |
| TIDE 2.0 (Technology Incubation and Development of Entrepreneurs) | Focuses on ICT, electronics, and digital tech startups with funding and incubation. | https://www.meity.gov.in/tide |
| SATHI (Sophisticated Analytical & Technical Help Institutes) | Offers shared R&D infrastructure and high-end research facilities to startups. | https://dstsathi.in |
| KIRAN (Knowledge Involvement in Research Advancement through Nurturing) | Promotes women entrepreneurship and participation in STEM-based ventures. | https://dst.gov.in/scientific-programmes/kiran |
| SIP-EIT (Support for International Patent Protection in Electronics & IT) | Helps startups secure international patents for electronics and IT innovations. | https://www.ipo.gov.in |
| INSPIRE (Innovation in Science Pursuit for Inspired Research) | Encourages young innovators through fellowships, scholarships, and entrepreneurship grants. | https://online-inspire.gov.in |
| SEED (Science for Equity Empowerment and Development) | Focuses on grassroots and social innovation for community-driven startups. | https://dst.gov.in/scientific-programmes/seed |
