TDB's RDI Scheme Sparks Interest with 124 Proposals Worth ₹25,000 Crore

The Technology Development Board (TDB) received 124 proposals valued at ₹25,000 crore within three months under the Research Development and Innovation (RDI) scheme. With an estimated funding demand of ₹10,000 crore, the scheme has generated significant interest from industry stakeholders, including startups and private investors.

The Technology Development Board (TDB) has announced a significant response to its Research Development and Innovation (RDI) scheme, attracting 124 proposals valued at ₹25,000 crore within just three months of its launch. Speaking to ANI, TDB Secretary Rajesh Kumar Pathak disclosed that the funding demand under the scheme is estimated at around ₹10,000 crore.

In a recent milestone, the TDB signed its first agreement with Emerging Technology Enterprises (ETEs) and commenced the initial fund disbursement as the Second Level Fund Manager (SLFM) under the RDI framework. Pathak highlighted that the corpus of ₹1 lakh crore, approved last year, finally sees implementation this fiscal.

The Secretary noted the burgeoning interest from the private sector, including startups and companies, in the RDI scheme. He emphasized that the government's support extends beyond funding, with a dedicated vertical under the Anusandhan National Research Foundation (ANRF) aiding startups in market development and partnerships. AI has been identified as a key sector within this innovation drive.