Technology Development Fund (TDF) Scheme – Ministry of Defence

Technology Development Fund (TDF) Scheme
The Technology Development Fund (TDF) is an initiative of the Ministry of Defence, Government of India, designed to encourage indigenous development of defence technologies and strengthen India's self-reliance in defence manufacturing and innovation.
The scheme provides financial and technical support to Indian startups, MSMEs and other eligible entities working on critical and emerging technologies relevant to the defence sector.
TDF aims to help innovators transform promising technologies and concepts into deployable solutions that can address the technology requirements of the Indian Armed Forces, DRDO and defence production ecosystem.
Funding Support
Eligible projects may receive grant support of up to ₹50 Crore, subject to the applicable scheme guidelines, project requirements, technical evaluation and approval.
The funding can support activities such as:
• Development of critical and cutting-edge technologies
• Prototype development
• Technology demonstration and testing
• Technology maturation
• Development of proof-of-concepts
• Other eligible technology-development activities
Funding Type: Non-Dilutive Grant
Equity: No equity taken
Application: Rolling / as per applicable TDF calls and guidelines
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Key Highlights
Promoting Self-Reliance
TDF promotes indigenous technology development to strengthen India's defence capabilities and reduce dependence on imported technologies.
Industry-Driven Growth
The scheme encourages participation from startups, MSMEs and private industry in building a strong and innovative defence technology ecosystem.
Technical Support
Apart from financial assistance, eligible projects may benefit from technical guidance and expertise associated with the defence R&D ecosystem.
Strategic Impact
TDF supports development of technologies relevant to the requirements of the Tri-Services, DRDO and defence production ecosystem.
Atmanirbhar Bharat in Defence
The scheme contributes to India's broader objective of becoming more self-reliant and globally competitive in defence technology, innovation and manufacturing.
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Eligibility Criteria
The scheme may be applicable to Indian-registered entities meeting the prescribed requirements, including:
• Public Limited Companies
• Private Limited Companies
• Partnership Firms
• LLPs
• One Person Companies
• Sole Proprietorships
• Startups
• MSMEs
Startup Recognition
Startup applicants are generally required to hold valid DPIIT recognition, as applicable under the prevailing guidelines.
Nascent Startups
Eligible nascent startups may be required to meet specific incorporation and incubation conditions prescribed under the scheme.
Indian Ownership
The applicant/startup must satisfy the prescribed Indian ownership and control requirements, including applicable Indian shareholding conditions.
Previous Government Funding
Applicants may be subject to restrictions regarding previously received government funding for development of a similar technology. Prior funding may be permitted where specifically allowed under the applicable guidelines.
Eligibility is subject to the specific TDF call, technology requirement and prevailing Ministry of Defence guidelines.

Focus Areas / Sectors
TDF supports technology development across a wide range of defence and strategic technology domains, including:
• Aerospace
• Land Systems
• Naval Systems
• Electronics & Avionics
• Cyber Technologies
• AI, Robotics & Autonomous Systems
• Materials & Manufacturing
• Advanced Defence Technologies
• Other critical and emerging technologies
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Why TDF?
Develop Indigenous Technologies
Supports development of advanced technologies within India.
Strengthen Defence Manufacturing
Encourages greater participation of Indian private industry in defence technology and manufacturing.
Empower Startups & MSMEs
Creates opportunities for innovative startups and MSMEs to contribute to India's defence ecosystem.
Strengthen National Security
Supports development of strategic technologies addressing critical defence requirements.
Access Significant Grant Support
Eligible projects can potentially receive substantial non-dilutive financial assistance for technology development.
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How the Funding Can Be Used
Subject to applicable project guidelines, TDF support can assist with:
• Critical technology development
• Prototype development
• Proof-of-concept development
• Product engineering
• Testing and validation
• Technology demonstration
• Technology maturation
• Development of advanced components and systems
• Other approved project-development activities
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How FinGrow Consultancy Services Can Help
FinGrow Consultancy Services assists startups and MSMEs in evaluating and preparing applications for government funding and grant opportunities.
Our support can include:
• Eligibility Assessment
• TDF Opportunity Assessment
• Technology & Project Evaluation
• DPR / Project Proposal Preparation
• Technical Proposal Support
• Business Plan Preparation
• Financial Projections
• Documentation Support
• Application Preparation
• Application Submission Assistance
• Presentation / Pitch Preparation
• Follow-up & Application Support
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Build India’s Next Defence Technology
If your startup or MSME is developing a critical, innovative or indigenous defence technology, the Technology Development Fund can provide an opportunity to obtain non-dilutive financial support and advance the technology toward prototype, testing and deployment.
Connect with FinGrow Consultancy Services to assess your eligibility and prepare a strong TDF application.

Important Disclaimer
Grant support of up to ₹50 Crore is subject to project eligibility, technical evaluation, selection, applicable TDF guidelines and approval by the competent authority. Funding is not guaranteed solely on the basis of eligibility.