PRISM (Promoting Innovations in Individuals, Start-ups and MSMEs): Category-1: Proof of Concept/ Prototypes/ Models

PRISM (Promoting Innovations in Individuals, Start-ups and MSMEs): Category-1: Proof of Concept/ Prototypes/ Models is a central government scheme run by the Department of Scientific and Industrial Research (DSIR), Ministry of Science and Technology. It gives money support to individual innovators, including students, to turn their new ideas into working prototypes and models.

The scheme supports research and development in areas like green technology, clean energy, waste to wealth, affordable healthcare, and water and sewage management. Proposals are received through TePP Outreach cum Cluster Innovation Centres (TOCICs) across the country, and the department keeps accepting applications from eligible innovators through the official process.

PRISM Category-1 Proof of Concept Prototypes Models - Introduction

PRISM (Promoting Innovations in Individuals, Start-ups and MSMEs): Category-1: Proof of Concept/ Prototypes/ Models is driven by the Department of Scientific and Industrial Research, Ministry of Science and Technology. This scheme helps individual innovators contribute to the nation's inclusive growth. By supporting the development of modern technological solutions, it targets innovators working to solve real world problems in sectors such as green technology, clean energy, waste to wealth, affordable healthcare, and water and sewage management.

This scheme also extends support to autonomous organizations or societies registered under the Societies Registration Act, 1860, or the Indian Trusts Act, 1882, provided their work benefits MSME clusters. It is a good platform for anyone looking to turn a knowledge intensive idea into reality.

Contact Us:

Scientist 'G' and Head, PRISM, Department of Scientific and Industrial Research, Technology Bhawan, New Mehrauli Road, New Delhi-110016. Phone: 011-26590394; E-mail: skdpande@nic.in, pkdutta@nic.in

Scientist 'E' and Member Secretary, PRISM, Department of Scientific and Industrial Research, Technology Bhawan, New Mehrauli Road, New Delhi-110016. Phone: 011-26590364; E-mail: tripta.garg@nic.in

Key Information

Benefits

This scheme provides critical money support to help innovators convert their ideas into working models. Here is how the funding works:

This funding is only for prototype development. It is not an award, prize, or fellowship. The funds should not be used for personal expenses like self salary, rent, or building basic infrastructure like sheds.

Eligibility

Any Indian citizen with a unique idea or innovation can apply. Students are especially encouraged to apply for this funding to develop their concepts into demonstrable prototypes.

Example: If Rohan, a student, creates a device to manage sewage waste efficiently, he can apply as the lead innovator. If a group of students works together, they should designate one person as the lead applicant to manage the funds.

The proposal should preferably focus on areas such as: Green Technology, Clean Energy, Waste to Wealth, Affordable Healthcare, or other knowledge intensive sectors.

Exclusions

This scheme does not support projects focused purely on software development or traditional academic research. PhD students enrolled in long term doctoral programs are generally not eligible for this support unless they are entrepreneurs with the clear legal right to commercially use their technology.

Application Process

Applicants can follow this offline process to submit their application:

STEP 1 - Prepare the project proposal in the prescribed format and submit it to the nearest TePP Outreach cum Cluster Innovation Centre (TOCIC).

STEP 2 - TOCIC coordinators will screen the application for completeness and forward it to Domain Knowledge Experts for a detailed evaluation.

STEP 3 - Once the proposal is evaluated, it is submitted to the Department of Scientific and Industrial Research (DSIR) for review by the PRISM Advisory and Screening Committee (PASC).

STEP 4 - Upon project approval, the applicant signs the terms and conditions. The grant is released based on project milestones. Regular monitoring is done every 3 months, and external expert committees review progress every 9 months.

Documents

To complete the application and documentation, keep the following ready:

• Signed copy of the Application.
• Valid proof of residence (Aadhaar card, ration card, or a certificate from an SDM/DM).
• A detailed brief of the innovative idea and documentary proof of prior work, such as photos, videos, or news articles.
• Project work plan and profile of potential users.
• Copy of PAN card and latest Income Tax Returns (if applicable).
• Students must provide a No Objection Certificate (NOC) from their institution head on official letterhead.

References

Official PRISM Scheme Guidelines

FAQ's

What is the objective of the Project Review Committees (PRCs)?

The PRCs, made up of external industry experts, monitor project milestones and suggest funding releases based on actual progress.

Can non-students apply for this grant?

Yes, any Indian citizen with a demonstrable proof of concept or prototype idea can apply.

How does the scheme handle group project applications?

The grant is awarded to a single lead applicant. However, if a team completes a project successfully, the department provides a letter of appreciation to all team members.

Why is the No Objection Certificate required from students?

The NOC confirms that the educational institution supports the project and is committed to helping the student and faculty bring the idea to its logical conclusion.

Are there infrastructure funds available under this scheme?

No, the scheme does not cover costs for building permanent infrastructure or sheds. The funds are strictly for the development of the prototype.