- Government invests INR 211 crore under the Fund of Funds for Startups (FFS) scheme to support space technology startups.
- FFS scheme helps startups through Alternative Investment Funds, encouraging innovation and entrepreneurship in the space sector.
- India aims to create 5 space tech unicorns and increase rocket launches to 50 each year, with strong private sector involvement.
Fund of Funds for Startups (FFS) scheme recently got a big boost with the Union Government investing INR 211 crore to support space technology startups. This move matches the government’s goal to promote innovation and entrepreneurship in the space sector, aiming to make India a global space power. The FFS scheme, managed by SIDBI, plays an important role in helping startups by providing funds through Alternative Investment Funds (AIFs) that invest in promising ventures. Keywords related to this scheme include FFS Scheme, space technology startups, and government investment.
The INR 211 crore investment under the FFS scheme is a big step in strengthening India’s space technology ecosystem. This funding will give startups the capital they need to innovate and grow their operations. Union Minister Piyush Goyal said this support will help domestic innovators, making India a global leader in space technology.
Role of Fund of Funds for Startups (FFS) in Boosting Innovation
The FFS scheme supports startups by investing in SEBI-registered Alternative Investment Funds (AIFs). These AIFs then invest in startups, creating a multiplier effect on the initial government investment. By June 30, 2025, the scheme had committed nearly INR 9,994 crore across 141 funds, which are required to invest at least twice the committed amount into the startup ecosystem. This method has greatly encouraged innovation and entrepreneurship across sectors, including space technology.
Government Vision and Targets for Space Technology Sector
Prime Minister Narendra Modi envisions a lively space technology sector driven by youth-led innovation. The government plans to create five unicorn startups in the space field within the next five years. Also, there is a goal to increase the number of annual rocket launches from the current 5-6 to as many as 50, showing a strong commitment to growing India’s space capabilities.
Growth and Current Status of India’s Space Startup Ecosystem
India’s space startup ecosystem has grown impressively, with over 350 active startups working on various space technologies. The national space budget has nearly tripled over the last decade, from INR 5,615 crore in FY14 to a projected INR 13,416 crore in FY26. Earlier this year, an extra INR 1,000 crore funding scheme was announced to further support space startups, showing ongoing government focus on this sector.
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Private Sector Participation in Space Technology Innovation
Private companies are playing an increasingly important role in space technology innovation. Reliance Industries is reportedly leading a USD 50 million funding round in Digantara Research and Technologies, a startup specializing in space situational awareness. Other notable private players include Skyroot, Pixxel, NewSpace, Agnikul Cosmos, and SatSure, all contributing to the fast growth of India’s space startup ecosystem.
| Key Highlights | Details |
|---|---|
| Investment Amount | INR 211 crore under FFS scheme |
| Number of Active Space Startups | Over 350 |
| National Space Budget (FY26 Projection) | INR 13,416 crore |
| FFS Scheme Total Commitment (as of June 30, 2025) | INR 9,994 crore across 141 funds |
| Government Targets | 5 unicorns in 5 years; 50 rocket launches annually |
| Private Sector Key Players | Reliance Industries, Skyroot, Pixxel, NewSpace, Agnikul Cosmos, SatSure |
| Official Website | https://www.startupindia.gov.in/content/sih/en/ |
With this strong support from the government and active involvement from the private sector, space technology startups in India are set for fast growth and global recognition. If you are an aspiring entrepreneur or investor interested in this sector, the FFS scheme offers a promising chance to be part of India’s space innovation journey.