Research, Development & Innovation (RDI) Scheme
Ministry Of Science And Technology
The Research, Development & Innovation (RDI) Scheme provides funding and support to help organizations create and improve new technologies or ideas so they can boost innovation, economic growth, and global competitiveness.
What you get
- Loan – Debt funding (via loan or optionally convertible debt) from the SLFM, calculated as 50% of the project cost.
- Equity – Funding via equity or equity linked instruments from the SLFM, calculated as 50% of the value of each funding round.
Who can apply
• The RDI Fund is provided to Second Level Fund Managers (SLFM) which include Alternative Investment Funds (AIFs), Development Finance Institutions (DFIs), Non-Banking Financial Companies (NBFCs), and Focused Research Organisations (FROs). • The SLFM then provides funds to private companies including DPIIT recognised startups advancing RDI-intensive technologies.
Who cannot apply
How to apply
Online
Step 1: Visit the RDIF portal, register using your email ID and mobile number, verify your account, and log in. Step 2: Go to the Application section and open the draft application created by the system. Select the Preferred Mode of Participation and the applicable Category (AIF/FoF). Step 3: Fill in all the required details, including organization information, fund details, key personnel, investment strategy, and other mandatory fields. Step 4: Upload all the required supporting documents in the prescribed format, ensuring that each document meets the portal requirements. Step 5: Review the application, verify the information entered, validate all mandatory fields, and submit the application online. Step 6: Note the application reference number and log in to the portal to track the application status and respond to any requests for clarification or additional documents.
Details
Research, Development & Innovation (RDI) Scheme is a flagship initiative of the Department of Science and Technology (DST), Ministry of Science and Technology, Government of India. OBJECTIVES • DST has launched the Research, Development, and Innovation (RDI) Scheme, approved by the Cabinet on 1st July 2025, with a total outlay of ₹1 lakh crore. • The initiative aims to catalyze private sector participation in high-impact R&D and strengthen India’s capabilities in strategic technologies and promote technological self-reliance, aligning with the nation’s long-term innovation and Atmanirbhar Bharat vision.