RDIF SCHEME – TDB as Second Level Fund Manager (SLFM)
About RDIF
Research Development and Innovation Fund (RDIF) is a flagship initiative under the Department of Science and Technology (DST), Government of India.
- Accelerates investment in India’s R&D and innovation ecosystem
- Supports startups, private enterprises and industries in sunrise sectors
Approved by the Union Cabinet on 1 July 2025 with a total outlay of ₹1 lakh crore over six years.
Objectives
- Encourage Private Sector Participation in R&D
- Promote Strategic Technologies for national development
- Support Atmanirbharta through indigenization
- Flexible Sectoral Support in public interest
Who Can Apply
Eligibility Criteria
- Legal entity registered and operating in India
- Startups / companies engaged in RDI-intensive technology (TRL-4+)
- Controlled by resident Indian citizens
- Global headquarters registered in India
RDIF Priority Sectors
Sunrise Sectors
- Energy security & climate action
- Deep technologies (Quantum, Robotics, Space)
- Artificial Intelligence
- Biotechnology & Medical Devices
- Digital Economy & Digital Agriculture
Other Sectors
- Strategic and economic security technologies
- Any sector in public interest
Mode of Funding (TDB)
Loan
- Collateral-free long-term loans
- Up to 50% of project cost
- Interest spread: 3%
- Tenure: up to 15 years (TRL-4+)
Equity / Loan + Equity
- Equity up to 25% of project cost
- Debt-to-equity conversion up to 20%
- No grants or short-term loans
