Startup India Seed Fund Scheme (SISFS)

About This Scheme

The Startup India Seed Fund Scheme (SISFS) provides crucial early-stage financial assistance to startups for proof of concept, prototype development, product trials, market entry, and commercialisation. A total corpus of 945 crore rupees is distributed through selected incubators across India, making it one of the few substantial grant-plus-debt routes for pre-seed Indian startups. Startups can receive up to 20 lakh rupees as grants for proof of concept and up to 50 lakh rupees as debt or convertible debentures for market entry. SISFS bridges the crucial gap between founder savings and traditional venture capital that funds later stages, and has become a go-to programme for serious first-time founders with technology-led ideas.

Ministry: Department for Promotion of Industry and Internal Trade (DPIIT)

Eligibility

DPIIT-recognized startup, incorporated not more than 2 years ago, not received more than ₹10 lakh monetary support under any central/state government scheme. Must apply through an approved incubator.

Key Benefits

• Up to ₹20 lakh as grant for validation of proof of concept, prototype, or product trials
• Up to ₹50 lakh as debt/convertible debentures for market entry and commercialization
• Funds disbursed through SEBI-approved incubators
• Mentorship and incubation support from selected incubators

Application Process

1. 1Get DPIIT recognition through Startup India portal
2. 2Find approved incubators on seedfund.startupindia.gov.in
3. 3Apply to a selected incubator with your business plan
4. 4Incubator evaluates and recommends your startup to the Expert Advisory Committee
5. 5EAC approves and funds are disbursed through the incubator

Documents Required

• DPIIT Recognition Certificate
• Certificate of Incorporation
• Detailed business plan and financial projections
• Proof of concept or prototype (if available)
• Declaration of not exceeding ₹10 lakh prior government funding

Official Links

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