Can I apply directly?

No. Applications must be submitted through a SISFS-selected incubator. Info Tree helps you choose and apply through the right one.

How long does the process take?

Eight to sixteen weeks from application to first disbursement, depending on the incubator's cadence.

Startup India Seed Fund Scheme (SISFS) — Eligibility, Process & Documents

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Info Tree handles this scheme end-to-end — eligibility, paperwork, filing, and follow-up until the money reaches your account.

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Overview

The Startup India Seed Fund Scheme was launched in 2021 to help DPIIT-recognised startups with their earliest capital needs — proof of concept, prototype development, product trials, market entry and commercialisation. Funds are disbursed through incubators selected by an Expert Advisory Committee, not directly to startups.

Key features

Grants up to ₹20 lakh for proof of concept and prototype development
Up to ₹50 lakh as convertible debentures or debt for market entry and commercialisation
Disbursed through 300+ selected incubators across India
Milestone-linked tranches, not a lump sum
No equity taken at the grant stage

Eligibility

Startup must be DPIIT-recognised
Incorporated not more than 2 years before the date of application
Idea must have a market fit for a viable commercial product or service
Should not have received more than ₹10 lakh of monetary support under any other central or state scheme
At least 51% shareholding must be with Indian promoters

Benefits

Non-dilutive funding at the earliest stage
Access to incubator infrastructure and mentorship
Pathway to follow-on funding through the incubator network
Credibility boost for DPIIT recognition and future fundraising

Required documents

✓DPIIT recognition certificate
✓Certificate of incorporation
✓Pitch deck and business plan
✓Audited financials (if any)
✓PAN and bank details
✓Founder KYC and resumes

Application process

1
DPIIT recognition
Get your startup recognised by DPIIT first — mandatory prerequisite.
2
Pick an incubator
Choose from the list of SISFS-selected incubators matching your sector.
3
Apply through incubator
Submit application through the seedfund.startupindia.gov.in portal.
4
Pitch and evaluation
Incubator's selection committee evaluates; shortlisted startups pitch.
5
Sanction and disbursement
Funds disbursed in milestone-linked tranches to your bank account.

Common pitfalls

!Applying without DPIIT recognition
!Submitting to an incubator that doesn't match your sector
!Weak pitch deck with no clear milestones
!Crossing the two-year incorporation window

FAQs

It's a mix. Up to ₹20 lakh is disbursed as a grant for proof of concept; up to ₹50 lakh is disbursed as convertible debentures or debt for later stages.

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Startup India Seed Fund Scheme (SISFS)