DST NIDHI Start-to-Scale Program | DERBI Foundation at Bengaluru, India

The DST NIDHI Start-to-Scale Program, implemented by the DERBI Foundation, is a flagship initiative by the Department of Science & Technology (DST), Government of India, aimed at supporting market-ready startups (TRL 9) to scale their innovations and accelerate commercialization.

💰 Grant Support

• 🪙Grant Amount: Up to ₹10 Lakhs
• ✅Funding Type: Non-dilutive grant

📌 Program Overview

• Location: Bengaluru, India.

🎯 Eligibility Criteria

🚀 Market-ready startups (Technology Readiness Level – TRL 9)

🏥 Digital Health

🧬 MedTech

🧪 Diagnostics

⌚ Wearables

🏡 Homecare Solutions

🌟 Program Benefits

• Support for scaling and market expansion
•  Mentorship & ecosystem access via DERBI Foundation
• Validation under a DST-backed national program
• Industry and startup ecosystem exposure

📅Important Dates

• ⏳Application Deadline: 23 December 2025 (5.00pm IST)
• 📌Program Start: To be announced for selected startups
• Demo Day: End of March 2026
• Startup Stage: TRL-9 and above

What It Offers Startups?

1. Mentorship from successful entrepreneurs.
2. Funding for prototyping, fellowships, and seed capital.
3. Access to labs, infrastructure, and technical advice.
4. Support in legal, IP, business development, and company formation.
5. Networking opportunities and investor connections.

📝 How to Apply?

Eligible startups can apply online using the official link below:

👉 Apply Here: https://lnkd.in/gBMp-NxR

1. Enter the Applicant Name, Email id, Designation
2. Enter the Founder Name, Mail address, Contact number
3. Founder linkedin profile, Education Qualification
4. Choose the Domain from the options
5. Fill out the Startup company details
6. Select the Stage of Innovation (TRL 4, 5, 6, 7, 8 / 9 )
7. Provide the Investors details
8. Agree with declaration
9. Click ‘Submit’.

🔍 Why Apply for DST NIDHI Start-to-Scale?

This program is ideal for startups that have a ready-to-market product and are seeking grant funding, mentorship, and national-level recognition to scale efficiently.

Customer Support

📞 Derbi Foundation: +91 80 4909 2961

📧 Email: info@derbifoundation.com, manager@derbifoundation.com