SAMRIDH Scheme — MeitY Funding up to ₹40 Lakh for Deep-Tech Startups

SAMRIDH (Startup Accelerators of MeitY for pRoduct Innovation, Development and growth using Hardware) is an initiative by the Ministry of Electronics & Information Technology (MeitY) implemented through the Digital India Corporation (DIC). The programme provides funding of up to ₹40 lakh per startup through equity, debt, or convertible instrument structures. It operates through a network of accelerator partners selected by MeitY, each running 3–6 month acceleration cohorts focused on product-market fit, prototype development, and go-to-market strategy.

SAMRIDH targets startups working in deep-tech, hardware, IoT, AI/ML, blockchain, robotics, drones, medtech, and cybersecurity. Your startup must be DPIIT-recognised or registered as a company/LLP in India. Early-stage and growth-stage startups with a working prototype or minimum viable product (MVP) are preferred. The startup should have a scalable business model with clear technology differentiation. Founders must be Indian citizens or residents, and the startup should not have received more than ₹2 crore in external funding at the time of application.

MeitY selects accelerator partners through a competitive process. These accelerators include organisations like Nasscom, T-Hub, IIT-incubators, CIIE.CO, and other reputed tech accelerators. Each accelerator runs its own cohort with specific focus areas. Visit the MeitY Startup Hub (MSH) portal or the Digital India Corporation website to find the current list of empanelled accelerator partners. Each accelerator announces its cohort timelines, application windows, and sector focus independently.

Compile a strong application with: pitch deck (problem, solution, market size, business model, traction, team), product demo or prototype (video walkthrough preferred), company registration documents (Certificate of Incorporation, MoA/AoA, DPIIT recognition certificate), financial statements (if available), team profiles with relevant technical expertise, and IP documentation (patents filed/granted, if any). Highlight your technology innovation, hardware component, and market validation.

Applications are submitted directly to the selected accelerator partner — not to MeitY. Monitor the accelerator’s website and social media for cohort announcements. Most accelerators accept applications through online portals (F6S, proprietary forms, or email). Submit your application before the deadline with all supporting documents. Some accelerators conduct rolling applications, while others have fixed cohort windows. Apply to multiple accelerators to maximise your chances.

The accelerator evaluates applications based on technology innovation, team strength, market potential, and scalability. Shortlisted startups go through multiple rounds: initial screening, pitch presentation, technical evaluation, and due diligence. The accelerator’s selection committee (which may include MeitY nominees) makes the final selection. Expect the process to take 4–8 weeks from application to selection. Selected startups sign an agreement with the accelerator covering funding terms, equity (if applicable), milestones, and programme obligations.

SAMRIDH provides up to ₹40 lakh per startup through equity, debt, or convertible instruments. The funding is typically structured as: MeitY’s contribution matched by the accelerator’s own investment or co-investor funds. Disbursement happens in tranches linked to milestones — prototype completion, pilot deployment, revenue generation, or user acquisition targets. The accelerator manages fund disbursement and milestone tracking. Some accelerators also bring in their own corporate partners and angel investors for follow-on funding.

The 3–6 month acceleration programme includes: dedicated mentors (industry experts, serial entrepreneurs, technical advisors), market connect (introductions to enterprise customers, pilot opportunities), investor connect (pitch days with VCs, angel networks), technical resources (cloud credits, lab access, testing facilities), and business support (legal, IP, financial advisory). Startups are expected to achieve specific milestones during the programme and present progress at regular review meetings.

At the end of the acceleration programme, startups present at a Demo Day attended by venture capitalists, angel investors, corporate innovation teams, and government officials. This is your opportunity to showcase product progress, traction metrics, and future roadmap. Successful demo day pitches often lead to follow-on funding rounds. The accelerator also facilitates warm introductions to sector-specific investors and potential strategic partners.

After completing the SAMRIDH programme, startups gain access to: the accelerator’s alumni network for peer learning and collaboration, continued mentorship from assigned mentors, eligibility for follow-on funding from MeitY’s other programmes (TIDE 2.0, GENESIS), access to government procurement opportunities via GeM portal, and visibility through MeitY’s startup showcase events. Maintain your DPIIT recognition and Udyam registration to continue accessing government scheme benefits.