GrantDSTVerified 6 May 2026Official source

DST NIDHI Entrepreneur-in-Residence Programme

Provides a monthly stipend of ₹30K–₹50K for up to 12 months to idea-stage innovators to pursue their startup full-time. Hosted at a NIDHI incubator, the EIR gets mentorship, workspace, and access to DST networks.

Maximum amount
₹6.0L
Typical payout
₹3.6L
Processing time
4–12 weeks
Application window
Rolling via NIDHI host incubators — each incubator sets its own intake cycle.

Eligibility criteria

Company type
Private Limited, LLP, One Person Company
Stage
Idea Stage, Pre-Revenue
States
All India (nationwide)
Sectors
ai, saas, healthtech, cleantech, iot, manufacturing, agritech, edtech, other

Documents required

1
Innovation Brief (2 pages)
Problem statement, proposed solution, novelty, and market potential
Tip: Keep it crisp — the committee shortlists based on this first
2
Founder CV
Detailed background including education, work experience, and prior projects
Tip: Highlight technical depth and domain expertise
3
No-Objection Certificate
From current employer if applicable
Tip: Required only if currently employed
4
Bank Account Details
For stipend disbursement

How to apply for NIDHI EIR

1
Find a NIDHI-EIR host incubator accepting applications on the NIDHI portalOpen portal
2
Apply directly to the incubator with your CV, business idea brief, and commitment letter
3
Incubator selection committee reviews and nominates you to DST
4
Monthly stipend of ₹30K–₹50K disbursed by DST via the host incubator for up to 12 months

Does your startup qualify for NIDHI EIR?

Answer a few questions about your company and get a personalised eligibility report across all active government schemes — including NIDHI EIR.

Check your eligibility — free

Frequently asked questions

Who is eligible for NIDHI EIR?

NIDHI EIR 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 NIDHI EIR provide?

NIDHI EIR provides up to ₹6.0L. Most applicants receive around ₹3.6L.

How long does NIDHI EIR approval take?

The typical processing time from submission to disbursement is 4–12 weeks.

Is NIDHI EIR currently accepting applications?

Yes, NIDHI EIR is currently active and accepting applications. Application window: Rolling via NIDHI host incubators — each incubator sets its own intake cycle..

Information is based on publicly available scheme guidelines. Last verified 6 May 2026. Always verify with official sources before applying.