Startup India Seed Fund Scheme (SISFS)
by DPIIT · Ministry of Commerce & Industry
Seed funding for DPIIT-recognised startups for proof of concept, prototype development, product trials, market entry and commercialisation - delivered through approved incubators.
Quick answer
Seed funding for DPIIT-recognised startups for proof of concept, prototype development, product trials, market entry and commercialisation - delivered through approved incubators.
| Funding amount | Up to ₹50 Lakh |
|---|---|
| Funding type | Government Grant |
| Provider | DPIIT · Ministry of Commerce & Industry |
| Application deadline | Rolling · always open |
| Eligible stage | Idea |
| Sector | Sector agnostic |
| Who can apply | DPIIT-recognised startups incorporated in India |
Who is eligible
- DPIIT-recognised startup, incorporated not more than 2 years ago at application
- Startup must have a business idea to develop a product or service with market fit
- Should not have received more than ₹10 lakh of monetary support under any other central/state scheme
- Indian promoters must hold at least 51% shareholding
Funding & benefits
- Up to ₹20 lakh as grant for validation of proof of concept, prototyping or product trials
- Up to ₹50 lakh for market entry, commercialisation or scaling up through convertible debentures/debt
- Mentorship and incubator support
How to apply
- Register / log in on the Startup India portal and get DPIIT recognition
- Apply on seedfund.startupindia.gov.in choosing up to 3 incubators
- Selected applications are evaluated by the incubator's seed management committee
- Sign the agreement and receive funds in milestone-linked tranches
Documents you’ll need
- DPIIT recognition certificate
- Certificate of incorporation
- Pitch deck and business plan
- PAN, bank details and audited financials (if any)
- Founder KYC documents
Frequently asked questions
Do I need DPIIT recognition to apply?
Yes. SISFS is open only to DPIIT-recognised startups, and recognition is free to obtain on the Startup India portal.
Is SISFS equity-free?
The grant component for proof of concept is equity-free. The larger commercialisation support is given as convertible debentures or debt-linked instruments.
How many incubators can I apply to?
You can select up to three incubators in a single application.
Verify all details on the official link before applying, scheme terms and deadlines change. Pitch Karo India lists opportunities for discovery only, is not affiliated with the funding body, and never charges for applications.