Discover what the Startup India Scheme is, its top benefits, key features, and a step-by-step guide on how to register your startup under the Government of India’s flagship initiative. Updated for 2025!
What is Startup India Scheme? Benefits, Features & How to Apply
What is Startup India Scheme?
India has emerged as one of the world’s fastest-growing startup ecosystems. To catalyze this growth, the Government of India launched the Startup India Scheme on January 16, 2016. This initiative, spearheaded by the Department for Promotion of Industry and Internal Trade (DPIIT), aims to empower entrepreneurs, boost innovation, and create jobs across the country.
What is the Startup India Scheme?
The Startup India Scheme is a flagship initiative by the Government of India that provides a support framework for startups, including financial support, regulatory exemptions, and access to government tenders.
It is designed to:
- Simplify the startup registration process
- Provide tax exemptions
- Offer funding support through government-backed funds
- Promote innovation and R&D
Objectives of the Startup India Scheme
- Promote entrepreneurship across India
- Generate employment opportunities
- Provide a robust ecosystem for innovation
- Reduce regulatory burden
- Facilitate funding and market access
Key Features of the Startup India Scheme
| Feature | Description |
|---|---|
| Startup Recognition | DPIIT-recognized startups enjoy multiple benefits |
| 3-Year Tax Holiday | Income tax exemption for the first 3 consecutive financial years |
| Self-Certification | Compliance under 6 labor & 3 environmental laws |
| Fast-Track Patent Filing | Startups receive up to 80% rebate on patent fees |
| Fund of Funds for Startups | ₹10,000 crore corpus managed by SIDBI to provide venture capital support |
| Government Tenders Access | Exemption from prior experience or turnover criteria in government tenders |
| Incubation Support | Access to 75+ government-recognized incubators |
| Startup India Hub | Single point of contact for startup ecosystem support |
Eligibility Criteria for Startup India Scheme
To be eligible for DPIIT recognition under the Startup India initiative, an entity must:
- Be registered as a Private Limited Company, Partnership Firm, or LLP
- Be less than 10 years old
- Have an annual turnover of less than ₹100 crore
- Be working towards innovation, development, or improvement of products or services
- Not have been formed by splitting or reconstructing an existing business
How to Apply for Startup India Scheme?
Here is a step-by-step guide to register under the Startup India Scheme:
- Incorporate Your Business – Register as Pvt. Ltd., LLP, or Partnership
- Register on Startup India Portal – https://www.startupindia.gov.in
- Apply for DPIIT Recognition
- Upload Supporting Documents (business plan, incorporation certificate, etc.)
- Get Recognized by DPIIT
- Avail Tax Exemptions & Benefits
📌 Pro Tip: Use a professional CA or legal advisor to ensure faster approval of your recognition request.
Benefits of Startup India Scheme
1. Income Tax Exemption
Startups get a 100% income tax exemption for the first 3 out of 10 years.
2. Ease of Doing Business
The scheme simplifies compliance, IP filing, and legal processes.
3. Funding Opportunities
Access to the Fund of Funds for capital at early stages.
4. Networking & Mentorship
Connection with mentors, investors, and startup hubs.
5. IPR Benefits
Fast-tracking and rebates on trademark and patent filing.
Startup India Scheme Achievements (As of 2025)
- Over 110,000 startups recognized by DPIIT
- More than 10 lakh jobs created
- ₹15,000 crore+ disbursed in funding
- 800+ women-led startups received funding under special schemes
Startup India in 2025: What’s New?
- New deep-tech support cells for AI, IoT, and SpaceTech startups
- Green Startup Recognition for sustainable business models
- One District One Product startup grants
- Partnership with state-level startup missions for local growth
Helpful Videos on Startup India Scheme
1. Official Startup India Explainer
Watch on YouTube
2. How to Register a Startup in India
YouTube Tutorial
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Q1. Is there any fee for Startup India registration?
No. Registration on the Startup India portal and for DPIIT recognition is completely free.
Q2. What documents are needed for Startup India registration?
You’ll need your incorporation certificate, PAN, business pitch or plan, and a brief description of your product or service.
Q3. Can an existing business apply for the scheme?
Yes, as long as it is under 10 years old and meets the eligibility criteria.
Q4. How long does it take to get recognized?
It typically takes 2–4 weeks if all documents are submitted correctly.
The Startup India Scheme is a game-changer for Indian entrepreneurs. Whether you’re launching a tech startup in Bengaluru or an agri-tech venture in Bihar, this initiative offers you the support, funding, and exposure you need to scale.
If you’re planning to start a business in India in 2025, getting DPIIT recognition through Startup India is your first big step to success.
Also read: From 5,000 Biryani Plates to Budget-Friendly Meals — Sitara Dakshin Keeps Bengaluru Hungry for More
Last Updated on: Tuesday, June 10, 2025 1:37 pm by Admin | Published by: BUSINESS SAGA TEAM on Tuesday, June 10, 2025 1:37 pm | News Categories: Startup News
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