District Startup Cells

1. Introduction

The Research, Development and Innovation Fund (RDIF) is a flagship initiative under the Department of Science & Technology, approved by the Union Cabinet on 1 July 2025 with a ₹1 lakh crore outlay over six years. The RDIF aims to accelerate private sector investment in research, development, and innovation by providing financial support through the Technology Development Board (TDB) as a Second Level Fund Manager (SLFM).

2. Eligibility

• Registered in India under Companies Act, 2013 / LLP Act, 2008 / Partnership Act, 1932
• Recognized as a Startup under DPIIT Notification G.S.R. 127(E) (2019)
• Principal place of business in India
• Controlled by resident Indian citizens
• Global headquarters located in India
• Engaged in RDI-intensive development (TRL 4 or above)

3. Priority Sectors

• Energy security, transition & climate action
• Deep technologies (quantum, robotics, space)
• Artificial Intelligence (agriculture, health, education)
• Biotechnology, pharma, medical devices, synthetic biology
• Digital economy & digital agriculture
• Strategic and economic security sectors

4. Funding Model

• Long-tenure collateral-free loans
• Equity or debt-to-equity conversion
• Up to 50% funding of project cost
• Remaining via self/commercial sources
• No grants or short-term loans
• Exceptions for strategic sectors

5. Application Process

1. Prepare detailed project proposal (TRL, innovation, market, finance)
2. Apply via TDB portal ("Apply Now" under RDIF SLFM)
3. Evaluation by TDB
4. Funding disbursal upon approval

6. Compliance Checklist

• Entity registered & DPIIT recognized
• TRL 4 or above
• Aligned with RDIF sectors
• Funding ≤ 50% requested
• Complete DPR & financials
• Application via TDB portal
• Ready for due diligence & reporting