GrantNITI Aayog (AIM)Verified 11 May 2026Official source

AIM PRIME — Programme for Researchers on Innovations, Markets and Entrepreneurship

Fellowship-based grant of ₹30L/year for up to 2 years for science and technology researchers at Indian academic/research institutions who are building deep-tech startups. Covers living allowance, travel, prototype costs, and market validation activities.

Maximum amount
₹40.0L
Typical payout
₹30.0L
Processing time
16–28 weeks
Application window
Annual cohort — typically opens in Q3/Q4 of the fiscal year. Monitor aim.gov.in for announcement.

Check if your startup qualifies for AIM PRIME — Programme for Researchers on Innovations, Markets and Entrepreneurship

Answer a few questions about your company and get a free, personalised eligibility report across all active government schemes — including AIM PRIME.

Check eligibility — free

Eligibility criteria

Company type
Private Limited, LLP, One Person Company
Stage
Idea Stage, Pre-Revenue
States
All India (nationwide)
Sectors
biotech, cleantech, healthtech, agritech, manufacturing, pharma, deeptech, aerospace

Documents required

1
Research/Innovation Brief
Detailed description of the technology innovation and research background
Tip: Must demonstrate a clear science/technology basis — commercial ideas without R&D foundation are not eligible
2
Institutional Affiliation Proof
Letter from host institution confirming researcher affiliation
Tip: Applicant must be affiliated with a recognised Indian academic or research institution
3
Entrepreneurship Intent Statement
Statement of intent to build a startup based on the research
Tip: Explain the path from research to a viable startup — be specific about the market problem
4
CV / Research Profile
Academic and professional credentials of the applicant
Tip: List publications, patents, or prior tech development work
5
Prototype / TRL Evidence
Any existing prototype, lab results, or proof of concept
Tip: Even early TRL 2-3 evidence is acceptable

How to apply for AIM PRIME

1
Monitor aim.gov.in/prime.php for open application windows — AIM PRIME runs annual cohortsOpen portal
2
Submit online application with research brief, institutional affiliation, and entrepreneurship intent statement
3
Expert review panel evaluates scientific merit and entrepreneurship potential (6-10 weeks)
4
Shortlisted candidates present to AIM evaluation committee
5
Selected fellows receive Year 1 fellowship (₹30L) with Year 2 extension (₹10L) contingent on milestones

Frequently asked questions

Who is eligible for AIM PRIME?

AIM PRIME is available to Private Limited, LLP, One Person Company companies at the Idea Stage, Pre-Revenue stage, across all Indian states (nationwide).

How much funding does AIM PRIME provide?

AIM PRIME provides up to ₹40.0L. Most applicants receive around ₹30.0L.

How long does AIM PRIME approval take?

The typical processing time from submission to disbursement is 16–28 weeks.

Is AIM PRIME currently accepting applications?

Yes, AIM PRIME is currently active and accepting applications. Application window: Annual cohort — typically opens in Q3/Q4 of the fiscal year. Monitor aim.gov.in for announcement..

Ready to apply for AIM PRIME — Programme for Researchers on Innovations, Markets and Entrepreneurship?

Find out in minutes if you meet the eligibility criteria — and discover every other government scheme your startup qualifies for, at no cost.

Check eligibility — free

Information is based on publicly available scheme guidelines. Last verified 11 May 2026. Always verify with official sources before applying.