₹30K Monthly Stipend for Tech Entrepreneurs

NIDHI-EIR provides financial support to aspiring entrepreneurs with promising technology business ideas, offering up to ₹30,000 per month for 12 months (max ₹3.6 lakh total). Administered by the Department of Science & Technology (DST) through Technology Business Incubators (TBIs), it minimises risks during startup validation.

What It Offers

• Stipend: ₹10,000-₹30,000/month based on idea potential (min 12 months support)​

• Infrastructure Access: Free office space, labs, prototyping facilities at host TBI​

• Mentorship: Guidance from industry experts, technical/financial advice​

• Network: Connections to investors, corporates, accelerators​

• No Equity: Pure grant – no dilution required​

Purpose & Impact

Launched under the NIDHI umbrella, the program nurtures technology-led startups with long gestation periods or social impact, aligning with Atal Innovation Mission goals.​

Success Metrics:

• Supported hundreds of EIRs across 50+ TBIs​

• Many transitioned to full startups with VC funding​

• Round 5 call attracted applications from top incubators nationwide​

Who can get the benefits?

Ideal for post-graduate science/engineering innovators with scalable tech ideas but lacking a runway to quit jobs. Sector-agnostic but prioritises deep-tech, IP from public research, and social impact ventures.​

Application Flow: Apply via participating incubators (current calls listed at nidhi-eir.in); incubators select and host EIRs.​

Recent Update: Round 5 applications closed June 2022; check nidhi-eir.in for new calls.