NDBI Incubation Program: Dec '25 Cohort

About this scheme

The National Design Business Incubator (NDBI), an integral part of the esteemed National Institute of Design (NID), Ahmedabad, offers a unique design-led business incubation program. This initiative benefits from robust support from the Department of Science & Technology (DST) and the Department for Promotion of Industry and Internal Trade (DPIIT), both agencies of the Government of India. Operating as a non-profit Section 8 company, NDBI is dedicated to nurturing innovation through design thinking, ensuring that products, processes, and services are not only functional but also user-centric, aesthetically compelling, and market-ready. NDBI also plays a key role in implementing the Government of Gujarat's Startup/Innovation Policy, further bolstering the state's entrepreneurial ecosystem.

A significant advantage for selected startups is facilitated access to vital seed funding. NDBI has a proven track record, having directly provided approximately USD 85.3K (around Rs. 72 Lakh) in grants to over 35 alumni companies, including notable ventures like SwachhAI and Varanmika Agriprises. Beyond direct financial assistance, NDBI alumni have collectively garnered substantial external investment, raising over USD 3.5 Million (approximately Rs. 29 Crore) from diverse investors, such as the O2 VC Fund, underscoring the program's effectiveness in preparing startups for growth and investor readiness.

Participants gain comprehensive non-monetary support crucial for early-stage development. This includes access to modern co-working office spaces in both Ahmedabad and Bengaluru, fostering a collaborative and productive environment. Startups receive expert mentorship from seasoned industry professionals and NID's distinguished design faculty, offering guidance across product development, business strategy, and market entry. Extensive networking opportunities connect founders with a vibrant ecosystem of investors, corporate partners, and NID alumni, facilitating partnerships, funding, and market access. The program also provides specialized IPR support, with guidance on design protection and patent filing to safeguard intellectual assets. Access to NID's specialized design labs and prototyping facilities is invaluable, enabling rapid product development and refinement. Additionally, assistance with legal matters, company formation, and other critical operational needs ensures startups establish a strong foundation for sustainable growth. NDBI's mission, rooted in NID's legacy, is to embed design principles into business, driving innovation and creating a competitive edge for Indian startups.

Who can apply

• The NDBI Incubation Program targets Indian startups focused on design-led innovation. Applicants must be registered in India as a Private Limited Company, Limited Liability Partnership (LLP), or Registered Partnership Firm, or commit to registering as one within three months of selection. This ensures a formal legal structure for scalability and investment.
• The startup's date of incorporation must not exceed 10 years, focusing on relatively nascent ventures. Annual turnover must not have exceeded Rs. 100 crore in any financial year since incorporation, ensuring the program supports growing, rather than established, businesses.
• A fundamental requirement is that startups must be actively engaged in the innovation, development, or improvement of products, processes, or services. The startup must be an original entity, not formed by splitting or restructuring an existing business. Applicants should be at a minimum Prototype or Minimum Viable Product (MVP) stage. Startups with existing users or paying customers are also strongly encouraged. The program welcomes startups at pre-seed or seed stage, irrespective of whether they have previously raised funding or generated revenue, emphasizing inclusivity for promising early-stage companies.

Eligible entity types: Private Limited, LLP, Partnership

Benefits & funding

• Selected startups gain facilitated access to vital seed funding, with NDBI having directly provided approximately Rs.
• 72 Lakh in grants to over 35 alumni companies.
• The program also helps prepare ventures for external investment, as alumni have collectively raised over Rs.
• Additionally, participants receive comprehensive non-monetary support essential for early-stage development.

Frequently asked questions