Startup India

About This Scheme

Startup India is the flagship initiative of the Government of India to build a strong ecosystem for nurturing innovation and startups. Recognised startups get tax exemptions for 3 consecutive years, self-certification compliance across labour and environmental laws, fast-tracked patent applications with 80 percent fee rebate, and access to a Fund of Funds worth 10,000 crore rupees managed by SIDBI. Over 2.2 lakh startups were DPIIT-recognised by March 2026, with the ecosystem producing over 100 unicorns. The programme suits first-time founders building innovative products and services who meet the incorporation and turnover thresholds.

Ministry: Department for Promotion of Industry and Internal Trade (DPIIT)

Eligibility

Entity incorporated as Private Limited Company, Partnership Firm, or LLP; turnover not exceeding ₹200 crore in any financial year (₹300 crore and a 20 year window for Deep Tech startups, under the DPIIT notification of 4 February 2026, which also admits cooperative societies). The 80-IAC tax holiday keeps a separate ₹100 crore turnover cap; entity is working towards innovation or improvement of products/services; not formed by splitting or reconstruction of existing business.

Key Benefits

• Income tax exemption for 3 consecutive years out of first 10 years (Section 80-IAC)
• Angel tax was abolished for all companies from April 2025, so share premium is no longer taxed for anyone
• Self-certification under 6 labour laws and 3 environmental laws
• Fast-tracked patent examination at 80% rebate in fees
• Access to Fund of Funds (₹10,000 crore via SIDBI)
• Easy winding up of company within 90 days under Insolvency & Bankruptcy Code
• Government e-Marketplace (GeM) listing without prior experience/turnover

Application Process

1. 1Visit startupindia.gov.in and create an account
2. 2Fill the recognition application form with business details
3. 3Upload Certificate of Incorporation/Registration and a brief description
4. 4Submit the application. Recognition is typically granted within 2-3 working days
5. 5Apply separately for tax exemption through the Inter-Ministerial Board

Documents Required

• Certificate of Incorporation / Registration
• PAN of the entity
• Brief description of innovation / business model
• Authorization letter (if applying through authorized representative)

Official Links

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