SAMRIDH Scheme Backs 373 Startups, 241 Secure Matching Funding: MeitY

The Startup Accelerator of MeitY for Product Innovation, Development, and Growth (SAMRIDH) programme is a flagship initiative of the Ministry of Electronics and Information Technology (MeitY) aimed at strengthening India’s startup ecosystem by enabling the growth of early-stage, technology-driven startups . The programme seeks to accelerate around 300 startups through a structured network of existing and upcoming accelerators operating across priority sectors such as Health-tech, Ed-tech, Agri-tech, Consumer-tech, Fin-tech, Software as a Service (SaaS), and sustainability .

As part of the implementation process, MeitY invited Expressions of Interest (EOIs) from startup accelerators across the country. A total of 186 accelerators submitted EOIs , following which a detailed evaluation process led to the selection of 43 top-performing accelerators across 16 states , ensuring wide geographic outreach and sectoral diversity. The state-wise details of the selected accelerators are provided in Annexure-I .

The programme is implemented and monitored by the MeitY Start-up Hub (MSH) under the Digital India Corporation (DIC) . MSH evaluates the performance of the selected accelerators using a combination of quantitative and qualitative parameters , including the quality of mentorship, effectiveness of acceleration programmes, and milestone-based startup progress. The framework also includes annual tracking of revenue and valuation growth of supported startups , ensuring transparency, accountability, and measurable outcomes.

Under the SAMRIDH programme, financial assistance is provided to both accelerators and startups . Selected accelerators receive ₹2 lakh per startup to support programme implementation, including mentoring, infrastructure, and operational costs. In addition, startups are eligible for matching funding of up to ₹40 lakh , provided in accordance with programme guidelines and linked to predefined milestones. This matching funding mechanism is designed to reduce early-stage funding risks and attract private investment.

To be eligible for support under SAMRIDH, startups must be DPIIT-recognised , technology-focused, and at an early stage with a scalable and innovative business model . Startups are onboarded through MeitY-selected accelerators and must meet specified technical, commercial, and growth-related criteria. Accelerators are required to demonstrate a proven track record , sectoral expertise, strong mentorship capabilities, and the ability to mobilise private capital.

Notably, the Government of India does not take any equity or ownership stake in startups supported under the SAMRIDH programme. The assistance is non-dilutive , provided in the form of grants and matching funding. Any equity arrangements are strictly between startups, accelerators, and private investors, based on mutually agreed commercial terms.

Over the last five years, 373 startups have been selected and accelerated under the SAMRIDH programme, of which 241 startups have successfully secured matching funding . Detailed accelerator-wise information on startups accelerated, funded, and funds disbursed is provided in Annexure-I , highlighting the programme’s role in fostering innovation and building a pipeline of scalable Indian startups.