We help our startup customers to navigate through the best available startup schemes and help them in the journey. These central government schemes offer a robust support system for startups in India, addressing various needs from financial assistance and regulatory relief to mentoring and infrastructure support. Entrepreneurs can leverage these schemes to overcome challenges, scale their ventures, and contribute to the vibrant startup ecosystem in the country.
Central Government Schemes for Startups
India’s central government has launched several schemes to foster the growth and development of startups. These initiatives provide financial support, infrastructure, mentorship, and regulatory relief to help new enterprises thrive. Here’s a broad overview of key central government schemes designed to support startups:
Startup India Initiative
Startup India is a flagship program launched in January 2016 to promote and facilitate the growth of startups across the country. Key components include:
- Startup India Hub: A centralized platform providing information about government schemes, funding opportunities, and regulatory compliance. It acts as a single-window clearance system for startups.
- Fund of Funds for Startups (FFS): Managed by the Small Industries Development Bank of India (SIDBI), this fund provides equity funding to startups through various Venture Capital Funds (VCFs). The aim is to contribute up to ₹10,000 crore over several years.
- Tax Benefits: Startups are eligible for a three-year income tax holiday within the first seven years of their operations. Additionally, they can benefit from a 20% tax deduction on investments above the fair market value.
- Easy Compliance: The initiative simplifies compliance with labor and environmental laws through self-certification. It also provides a streamlined exit process for startups.
- Intellectual Property Rights (IPR) Benefits: Fast-tracking of patent applications and a 80% rebate on patent costs.
Atal Innovation Mission:
Atal Innovation Mission aims to promote innovation and entrepreneurship:
- Atal Tinkering Labs (ATL): Provides grants to schools to set up innovation labs where students can work on creative projects, fostering a culture of innovation from an early age.
- Atal Incubation Centers (AIC): Supports the establishment and growth of incubation centers that provide resources, mentorship, and infrastructure to startups.
Pradhan Mantri Mudra Yojna:
Launched in April 2015, the Mudra Yojana provides financial support to micro and small enterprises, including startups. The scheme offers loans under three categories:
- Shishu: Up to ₹50,000 for new businesses.
- Kishore: ₹50,000 to ₹5 lakh for existing businesses looking to expand.
- Tarun: ₹5 lakh to ₹10 lakh for more established businesses.
Standup India Scheme :
Introduced in April 2016, this scheme facilitates the setting up of greenfield enterprises by Scheduled Castes (SCs), Scheduled Tribes (STs), and women entrepreneurs. The scheme provides:
- Loan Support: Between ₹10 lakh and ₹1 crore to cover project costs.
- Mentoring and Support: Guidance and support through various institutions and banks
National Initiative for Developing and Harnessing Innovations (NIDHI):
NIDHI is a comprehensive program to support the innovation ecosystem in India:
- NIDHI-PRAYAS: Provides financial assistance for prototype development.
- NIDHI-EIR (Entrepreneur in Residence): Supports entrepreneurs through a stipend and mentorship.
- NIDHI-Seed Support Scheme: Offers seed funding to startups for scaling up.
Digital India:
Launched in July 2015, the Digital India promotes the growth of startups in the digital sector. Key initiatives include:
- Support for Digital Infrastructure: Assistance in setting up digital infrastructure and technology support.
- Funding and Resources: Access to funding and resources for startups working in the digital space.
Credit Guarantee Scheme for Startups
- The Credit Guarantee Fund for Startups (CGFS) is an initiative designed to provide startups with easier access to credit by offering guarantees to financial institutions. This helps startups, particularly those in their early stages or lacking substantial collateral, secure loans from banks and other financial institutions. The CGFS aims to enhance the creditworthiness of startups by providing a guarantee to banks and financial institutions for loans extended to these startups. This reduces the risk for lenders and encourages them to provide financing to innovative and high-potential startups.