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SAMRIDH Scheme for Startups: Funding, Benefits & How to Apply

Q: How do I apply for the SAMRIDH Scheme for my startup?

To apply for the samridhi scheme , you can apply through an eligible Accelerator/Incubator partner, through the MeitY Startup Hub website.

By Tata Capital
05 January 2026
9 mins read
2537

SAMRIDH Scheme for Startups: Funding, Benefits & How to Apply

As of October 3rd, 2023, India boasts 111 unicorns with a combined valuation of $349.67 billion. Through various schemes, the government provides participating startups with enhanced access to customers, international markets, and potential investors. This exposure enables startups to expand their reach and scale their businesses effectively.

The SAMRIDH startup scheme is one such measure. This scheme underscores the government’s commitment to fostering innovation and entrepreneurship by providing critical support to 300 startups through mentorship, funding, and other essential resources.

The Ministry of Electronics and Information Technology unveiled the Startup Accelerator of MeitY for Product Innovation, Development & Growth (SAMRIDH) program on August 25th, 2021.

This article discusses the objectives, selection process, fund disbursement, impact, and support it offers to startups in India.

What are the objectives of the SAMRIDH scheme?

Through innovation and entrepreneurship, the program aims to foster inclusive growth and create opportunities for individuals from diverse backgrounds. The objectives of the SAMRIDH scheme include:

1. To provide funding support through samridhya loan and fiscal incentives to startups.

2. To address the gap in accessing growth stage funding identified in the Startup India 2018 report.

3. To recognise the pivotal role of enablers such as incubators and accelerators in supporting and accelerating the successful development of businesses within the startup ecosystem.

4. To align with findings from the NASSCOM Strategic Review 2019 report, which highlights the dominance of startups in enterprise software and services sectors like FinTech, EdTech, and HealthTech, collectively comprising nearly 50% of the total startup landscape.

5. To respond to the specific demand for accelerators tailored to support core technologies such as IoT, prevalent in 15-17% of startups, as well as AI (54-58%) and AR/VR (26-28%), across segments like Home Automation, HealthTech, FinTech, RetailTech, Real Estate, and EdTech.

How does the SAMRIDH scheme disburse finances?

Accelerators will design customised programs for each startup in the cohort, addressing their unique needs. They’ll provide services like connecting with customers and investors, boosting capacity, and improving products. Each startup will have a budget of Rs. 2 Lakhs, with a maximum of Rs 20 Lakhs per cohort, to support these activities.

Financial model:

Description	Year 1 (Rs. in Cr)	Year 2 (Rs. in Cr)	Year 3 (Rs. in Cr)	Total (Rs. in Cr)
Startup Acceleration Fund	30	30	30	90
Accelerator Services and Activities	2	2	2	6
Administrative Expenses	1	1	1	3

Total Financial Outlay: Rs. 99 Cr

What is the selection process for the SAMRIDH scheme?

The selection process for the samridh scheme India typically involves the following stages:

1. Strategic evaluation based on criteria:

The scheme employs a rigorous evaluation process based on innovation, market potential, scalability, and societal impact. Startups are assessed on their potential for growth and impact for support.

2. Identification of High-Potential Startups

The program identifies startups with exceptional promise and potential for rapid growth and scalability in their respective industries. Through a meticulous selection process, SAMRIDH focuses on startups with the highest potential for success.

3. Support Provided to Selected Startups

Once selected, startups receive comprehensive support through mentorship, funding, and other necessary resources. SAMRIDH provides ongoing assistance to participating startups, ensuring they have the guidance and support to navigate the challenges of scaling their businesses.

How SAMRIDH Scheme Supports Startups

The SAMRIDH startup scheme fosters a culture of innovation and entrepreneurship by providing critical support to Indian Software Product startups. By nurturing a vibrant ecosystem of innovative ventures, the program aims to drive technological advancement and address critical societal challenges through:

Funding Support

SAMRIDH provides funding support of up to Rs 40 lakh per startup based on the current valuation and growth stage. This financial assistance enables startups to invest in key areas such as product development, marketing, and talent acquisition, fuelling their growth and expansion. Some may explore options like a business loan for additional financial backing.

Accelerator-Led Growth Programs

Participating startups gain access to customised acceleration programs designed to accelerate their growth trajectory. These programs offer mentorship, networking opportunities, and tailored support services, equipping startups with the resources and tools to succeed in a competitive market.

Investor Network & Market Access

The SAMRIDH scheme for startups facilitates matching investments by accelerators and investors, amplifying the impact of the support provided. By connecting startups with potential investors, the program aims to unlock additional funding opportunities and support their long-term growth objectives.

Impact of the SAMRIDH Scheme

SAMRIDH aligns with India’s broader development agenda by promoting innovation, entrepreneurship, and economic growth. By empowering startups to succeed, the program contributes to India’s efforts to build a thriving and competitive economy.

Startup Ecosystem Growth

The samridh scheme India supports the growth of potential IT-based startups within the dynamic Indian Software Product ecosystem.

Addressing Government & Regulatory Challenges

By addressing challenges like VC and App Challenges floated by the government, SAMRIDH can facilitate the commercialisation of innovative products and solutions developed by startups.

Mitigating Impact of COVID-19

In response to the economic fallout from COVID-19, SAMRIDH aims to provide essential support to tech startups facing revenue decline, operational disruptions, and investor hesitancy.

Fostering Funding Confidence

The scheme can bolster investor confidence and stimulate startup investment through funding support and mentorship, thereby enhancing market resilience and stability.

Navigating Regulatory Changes

The SAMRIDH scheme has the potential to assist startups in navigating regulatory complexities and foreign investment restrictions, ensuring compliance and continuity amidst evolving regulatory landscapes.

Encouraging Innovation & Adaptability

By empowering startups to innovate and adapt to changing market dynamics, the scheme can foster a culture of resilience and innovation within the startup ecosystem.

Economic Recovery & Job Creation

SAMRIDH scheme for startups can contribute to economic recovery by driving investment, job creation, and innovation, fuelling overall economic growth and development.

Also,read: Top Government Schemes for Startups

Key Features of the SAMRIDH Scheme for Startups

In this section, we will take a look at the key features of the samridhi scheme.

Focus on Emerging Sectors:

Samriddhi scheme for startup focuses on startups working in high-growth areas. Examples are artificial intelligence, machine learning, IoT, blockchain, healthtech, and edtech, as they are future-ready industries.

Development:

SAMRIDH provides comprehensive support. Technology validation, go-to-market planning, and scaling strategies, and exposure are provided to the startups.

Accelerator-Led Growth:

Selected startups receive guidance from samridhi scheme accelerators. They’re offered mentorship, strategic inputs, and access to market opportunities to strengthen the business itself.

Funding Support:

Samridh scheme India startups can receive financial assistance of up to ₹40 lakh under the scheme. This funding is matched by private investors.

Collaborative Framework:

The programme promotes collaboration with industry leaders, investors, and academic institutions. With these efforts, a supportive and connected startup ecosystem is created.

Also,read: Mudra Loan for Small Business under PMMY

Eligibility Criteria for Startups and Accelerators under SAMRIDH

The samriddhi scheme for startup has eligibility rules for the startups and accelerators that it supports.

For startups, the business should be beyond the idea stage. A minimum viable product (MVP) must be ready for market testing. The startup must be registered as a private limited company under the Companies Act, 2013. A revenue model is required to show their growth potential. It’s ideal if the startup is working on innovative projects.

For accelerators, the eligibility criteria are different. They must have some previous experience in supporting startups. They also need to have a strong network of mentors, investors, and industry experts. Accelerators are also expected to provide funds. Active involvement in guiding startups is important. Accelerators should offer mentoring, business support, and helping startups connect with the right market opportunities.

Application Process for the SAMRIDH Scheme

The samridhi scheme uses a structured online application process to assess a startup’s readiness for market growth and an accelerator’s ability to provide funding, mentorship, and long-term support.

For Startups:

a. Visit the official SAMRIDH Scheme portal to begin the application process.

b. Complete the online form with details about the business model, founding team, and growth plans.

c. Next, provide financial projections.

d. Upload required documents such as the Certificate of Incorporation, pitch deck, and financial statements.

For Accelerators:

a. Submit the application through the same online samridhi scheme portal.

b. Share details of previous experience with samridhya loan and in supporting startups and scaling businesses.

c. Highlight the strength of your networks, including investor and industry networks.

d. Provide clear co-investment commitments. You must also explain the structure of the acceleration programme.

Also,read: Mudra Business Loan: How to Apply, Eligibility

Benefits of the SAMRIDH Scheme for Startups

The SAMRIDH Scheme provides focused support to help startups scale, validate their ideas, and build sustainable businesses.

Access to Funding:

The major benefit of the scheme is that startups receive samridhya loan and equity-based funding, which helps them grow without the burden of debt from other funding methods.

Networking Opportunities:

The scheme supports startups beyond just funding. Samriddhi scheme for startup offers connections with investors, customers, and industry partners. These new opportunities for collaboration are good for growing startups.

Mentorship and Guidance:

Founders receive support from many experts and entrepreneurs, who can offer their guidance, mentorship, and insights.

Product Validation:

SAMRIDH supports market testing, to make sure startups tackle market challenges effectively. With this, the scheme helps in improving long-term sustainability of startups.

Employment Generation:

When startups are adequately supported, they expand and create new jobs in the process. These new employment opportunities contribute to economic growth in India.

Mentorship and Training Support under SAMRIDH

One way in which the samridh scheme India supports startups is through dedicated mentorship.

SAMRIDH provides startups with not just samridhya loan but also strong mentorship and training opportunities. Experienced mentors guide entrepreneurs in refining their business strategies, improving business decision-making, and tackling potential market challenges.

The scheme also offers access to training programs. They impact startups positively, promote knowledge sharing, and build leadership capabilities. Such programs provide a solid foundation for the growth of startups in a competitive environment.

Market Access and Visibility for Startups

Samriddhi scheme for startup helps startups expand their market reach by providing networking opportunities. By interacting with potential clients, investors, and industry partners, startups get greater market access.

The scheme also enhances visibility. Startups get to showcase their products and solutions at different events. With an increase in exposure, startups attract more customers and potentially investors, and build partnerships that are strategic in nature. The result is strengthened business growth, set up for long-term sustainability.

Conclusion

Samriddhi scheme for startup aims to empower startups to thrive in a competitive landscape and drive technological advancement through strategic evaluation and comprehensive assistance. The SAMRIDH scheme is a good option if you’re looking for government-funded financial assistance. However, if you’re considering financial institutions as well, explore Tata Capital. Tata Capital offers MSME loans at competitive interest rates. Scale your business with comfortable loan tenures, quick approvals, and minimal documentation.

FAQs

What is the full form of the SAMRIDH Scheme for startups?

The full form of samridh scheme India is Startup Accelerator of MeitY for Product Innovation, Development and Growth.

What kind of startups are eligible for the SAMRIDH Scheme in India?

Eligible startups under the samridh scheme India including technology-based, early-stage startups. They must focus on software products, aiming for social impact.

How do I apply for the SAMRIDH Scheme for my startup?

To apply for the samridhi scheme, you can apply through an eligible Accelerator/Incubator partner, through the MeitY Startup Hub website.

Does the SAMRIDH Scheme offer equity funding or grants?

The samridhi scheme provides equity funding up to ₹80 lakhs (matching funds: ₹40 lakhs from MeitY, ₹40 lakhs from co-investor).

What is the maximum funding available per startup under SAMRIDH?

Maximum samridhya loan available per startup is ₹40 lakhs in matching funds, that is provided through certain accelerators.

Does SAMRIDH offer support beyond funding for Indian startups?

SAMRIDH offers mentorship, connection opportunities, international exposure, market access, as well as professional services to support startups.

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