The SIDBI-iDEX Seed Fund 2026, operated by PIEDS at BITS Pilani, provides early-stage seed funding (up to ₹1.5 Cr) to startups and innovators, with a focus on supporting technology-driven ventures that have commercial potential. It exists to bridge the funding gap for early-stage entrepreneurs, particularly those emerging from academic and research ecosystems, by offering capital and incubation support to validate and scale their ideas.

- Eligibility: Must be a startup/venture (not an individual researcher) registered or willing to register in India; likely requires a team and a clear commercial product/service. - Innovation & Technology: The idea must be novel, technology-based, and have a strong IP or technical moat. - Market Potential: Clear addressable market, revenue model, and scalability. - Team Capability: Founder/team background, execution ability, and commitment. - Stage: Early-stage (pre-seed/seed) with a prototype or MVP; proof of concept is a plus. - Alignment with PIEDS/BITS Pilani ecosystem: Preference for ventures that can leverage BITS Pilani's incubation resources (RKIC). - Impact: Potential for job creation, societal benefit, or alignment with national priorities (e.g., 'Make in India', deep tech).

The page does not list specific past winners. However, based on the provider (PIEDS at BITS Pilani), typical winners are early-stage tech startups from BITS Pilani alumni or students, often in deep tech, healthcare, AI/ML, or engineering. They usually have a working prototype, a small team, and a clear go-to-market plan. Named examples are not available on the page.

The ideal applicant is a registered startup (or a team ready to register) with a technology-driven product or service, a working prototype or MVP, and a clear commercial roadmap. They should have a strong technical team, a scalable business model, and a willingness to be incubated at BITS Pilani's RKIC. The venture should be at an early stage but beyond ideation, with some validation (e.g., pilot customers, early traction).