Startup India Seed Fund Scheme

This scheme is closed: Official June 2026 DPIIT playbook states the last date for startups to apply was 31 May 2026; disbursals to already-selected startups are ongoing. Watch the portal for a new window. Check the official page for any reopening.

Last checked 11 Oct 2026 against the official scheme page. Terms and dates can change, so confirm on the official site before you apply.

Up to Rs 20 lakh grant (validation/prototype/trials); up to Rs 50 lakh via convertible debentures or debt-linked instruments (market entry/commercialisation)

Funding available

Seed funding delivered through DPIIT-approved incubators. Startups get a grant for proof of concept, prototype or product trials, and debt-linked investment for market entry and scaling.

Eligibility Criteria

DPIIT-recognised startup incorporated no more than 2 years before applying, with a technology-led product or service idea and scope to scale. Must not have received more than Rs 10 lakh of monetary support under other Central or State schemes. Applications go through approved incubators.

What You Get

Grant for PoC/prototype/trials
Investment for market entry and scale-up
Incubator mentoring

Similar Schemes

FoF 2.0

Startup India Fund of Funds 2.0

Corpus Rs 10,000 crore, routed through AIFs

CGSS

Credit Guarantee Scheme for Startups

Guarantee cover up to Rs 20 crore per borrower (85% of default for loans up to Rs 10 crore, 75% above)

80-IAC

Section 80-IAC Income Tax Holiday for Startups

100% deduction on business profits for 3 consecutive financial years

Apply on the official government portal

Apply Now

Quick Facts

Governing Body: Department for Promotion of Industry and Internal Trade (DPIIT), Ministry of Commerce and Industry
Ministry / Dept: DPIIT
Level: Central Government
Status: Check official site

Startup Stage

IdeationValidation

DPIIT Recognition Required

This scheme requires your startup to be DPIIT-recognised under the Startup India programme.

How to get DPIIT recognition →