Startup India Seed Fund
Startup India Seed Fund Scheme (SISFS)
Central government scheme that provides early-stage funding support to DPIIT-recognised startups through incubators for proof of concept, prototype, product trials, market entry and commercialisation.
Who Can Apply?
DPIIT-Recognised Startup
Must be a DPIIT-recognised startup, incorporated not more than 2 years before the date of application.
Innovation & Scalability
Should have an innovative product or service with clear market fit, commercialisation potential and scope for scaling.
Technology-Driven
Startup must use technology in core product, business model, distribution or methodology to solve the identified problem.
No Prior Large Funding
Should not have raised significant monetary support from other central or state schemes beyond limits specified in SISFS guidelines.
Indian Entity
Company / LLP / partnership registered in India with majority ownership held by Indian founders as per Startup India norms.
Sector & Incubator Fit
Must apply to incubators that align with its sector and satisfy any incubator-specific eligibility criteria.
Key Features
Proof of Concept Funding
Grant support up to ₹20 lakh for activities like proof of concept, prototype development and product trials via selected incubators.
Seed Capital for Scaling
Additional seed funding up to ₹50 lakh through debt or convertible debentures for market entry, commercialisation and scale-up.
Incubator-Led Support
Funding routed through approved incubators that also provide mentoring, infrastructure and networking support.
Early-Stage Focus
Specifically addresses the capital gap for seed and PoC stages so startups can reach angel and VC fundable levels.
Nationwide Coverage
Implemented across India with many incubators empanelled under the Startup India framework.
Non-Dilutive Grant Portion
Grant component for PoC is non-dilutive, helping founders validate and build without immediate equity dilution.
Scheme Benefits
Application Process
Get DPIIT Recognition
Incorporate your startup and obtain DPIIT recognition on the Startup India portal with valid CIN / LLPIN and other basic details.
Prepare Pitch & Documents
Create business plan, pitch deck, financial projections, product details and team profile as required under SISFS.
Apply on SISFS Portal
Register and log in to the Startup India Seed Fund portal, choose suitable incubators and submit your online application.
Incubator Evaluation & Funding
Incubators evaluate and shortlist startups, sign agreements and disburse grant or seed funds in tranches linked to milestones.
Documents Required
Frequently Asked Questions
Who can apply for Startup India Seed Fund?
DPIIT-recognised startups incorporated less than 2 years ago with an innovative, technology-driven solution and clear commercialisation potential can apply through the SISFS portal.
How much funding can a startup receive?
An eligible startup may receive up to ₹20 lakh as grant for PoC / prototype / trials and up to ₹50 lakh as seed investment for market entry or scaling, subject to incubator evaluation.
Is SISFS a grant or a loan?
The scheme combines non-dilutive grant support for early validation and seed funding through debt or debenture instruments for later-stage activities.
Do startups apply directly to the government?
Applications are filed online via the Startup India Seed Fund portal; funds are sanctioned and routed through selected incubators, not directly from the ministry to startups.
Can a startup apply to multiple incubators?
A startup can usually apply to multiple incubators listed on the portal, and each incubator independently evaluates the proposal.
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