Indian citizenship. Education background: Minimum 4 years of undergraduate/postgraduate in science or engineering or 3 years of diploma/degree in the field with 1-2 years of full-time work experience. Sole engagement in the NIDHI-EIR supported business ideas.

Technology ideas with high social impact. Women entrepreneurs. Young innovators under 35. Uniqueness of the proposed idea.

Maximum grant: ₹30,000 per month, with a minimum of ₹10,000 per month for 12 to 18 months, depending on achieved milestones. Total maximum support is capped at ₹3,60,000 for each selected NIDHI-EIR.

NIDHI EIR – Deshpande Startups

NIDHI-EIR

Deshpande Startups plays a vital role in supporting innovators and entrepreneurs by providing funding avenues tailored to startups at different stages of growth. Through initiatives like NIDHI EIR, we offer seed funds and grants, championing our founder-first approach.

This program is part of the National Initiative for Developing and Harnessing Innovations (NIDHI), a comprehensive effort by the Department of Science & Technology, Government of India.

NIDHI Entrepreneur In Residence (NIDHI-EIR)

The NIDHI-EIR program, backed by the National Science and Technology Entrepreneurship Development Board (NSTEDB) under the Government of India, is strategically designed to support Technology Business Incubators (TBIs).

The initiative primarily associates with academic and research institutions, leveraging cutting-edge technologies and innovations to cultivate entrepreneurial ventures. Recognizing the extended timeline for product development and revenue generation in startups from technology and research, this program aims to reduce risks for budding entrepreneurs.

Objectives of NIDHI-EIR

Encourage Entrepreneurship: Providing fellowship support to graduating students, nudging them towards entrepreneurship as a viable career choice.
Incubator Pipeline: Cultivating a robust network of entrepreneurs for incubators, fostering an environment that nurtures startup innovation.
Attractiveness of Entrepreneurship: Making technology-based business ideas a compelling career choice among other available options.