Startup India

What is Startup India?

Startup India is a flagship initiative launched by the Government of India on 16th January 2016 to promote innovation and drive sustainable economic growth. The goal is to empower startups by providing them with various benefits like tax exemptions, easy registration, funding support, and faster patent processing.

The Startup India initiative aims to build a strong ecosystem for nurturing innovation and startups in the country to drive sustainable economic growth and generate large-scale employment opportunities.

 

Benefits of Startup India Registration

  • 3-Year Tax Exemption under Section 80-IAC of Income Tax Act

  • Fast-track Patent Application Processing

  • Self-certification under Labour & Environmental Laws

  • Easier Public Procurement Norms

  • Access to Government Funding (Fund of Funds)

  • Startup India Learning and Development Program

  • Participation in International Events and Government Tenders

  • Networking Opportunities with Incubators and Mentors

 

Eligibility Criteria for Startup India Registration

  • Must be a Private Limited Company, LLP, or Registered Partnership Firm

  • Must not be more than 10 years old

  • Annual turnover should not exceed INR 100 crore

  • Should be working towards innovation, development or improvement of products, services, or processes

  • The business must be scalable and have a high potential for employment and wealth creation

  • Must not be formed by splitting or reconstructing an existing business

 

Documents Required for Startup India Registration

  • Certificate of Incorporation/Registration of the entity

  • PAN Card of the entity

  • Details of Directors/Partners (Aadhar & PAN)

  • Proof of Business Address

  • Website Link or Pitch Deck (if available)

  • Brief about the Business & Innovation

  • MOA (Memorandum of Association) or LLP Agreement

  • Authorization Letter

  • Utility Bill (Electricity, Telephone, Water, etc.)

  • Board Resolution (if applicable)

  • Patent/Trademark Details (if any)

  • Financial Statements (if applicable)

  • Startup India Registration Form (Online submission)

 

Step-by-Step Process of Startup India Registration

Step 1: Incorporate your Business

Incorporate your business as a Private Limited Company, LLP, or Partnership Firm.

Step 2: Register on Startup India Portal

Visit the official portal: www.startupindia.gov.in and sign up with basic details.

Step 3: Fill Startup Recognition Form

Submit the required details including business nature, turnover, innovation description, etc.

Step 4: Upload Required Documents

Upload necessary documents like incorporation certificate, PAN, and brief about your startup’s innovation.

Step 5: Get DPIIT Recognition

After verification, you will receive a Startup India Recognition Number and Certificate of Recognition from DPIIT (Department for Promotion of Industry and Internal Trade).

 

Time Involved in the Startup India Registration Process

Process Step

Approximate Time

Business Incorporation

7 – 10 working days

Registration on Startup Portal

1 day

DPIIT Recognition Approval

2 – 5 working days

Total Time for Startup India Registration: 7 to 15 working days

 

Startup India FAQs – Frequently Asked Questions

1. What is Startup India Registration?
Startup India Registration is a government-recognized process under DPIIT that helps startups avail various benefits, tax exemptions, and support.

2. Is Startup India registration mandatory?
No, it’s not mandatory but highly recommended for availing Startup India benefits.

3. Who can apply for Startup India?
Any Indian entity – Private Limited Company, LLP, or Registered Partnership Firm – fulfilling the eligibility criteria.

4. What is DPIIT in Startup India?
DPIIT (Department for Promotion of Industry and Internal Trade) is the body that certifies and recognizes startups.

5. What are the tax benefits under Startup India?
Eligible startups can get 100% tax exemption for 3 consecutive years under Section 80-IAC.

6. Can an individual register under Startup India?
No. The applicant must register a business entity like Pvt Ltd, LLP, or Partnership Firm.

7. Is GST registration required for Startup India?
It’s not mandatory but may be required depending on business turnover and operations.

8. Can foreign companies register under Startup India?
Only Indian-registered entities are eligible. However, foreign investment is allowed.

9. Is Startup India applicable for NGOs?
No, NGOs and Section 8 companies are not eligible for Startup India benefits.

10. Is there any registration fee for Startup India?
No, Startup India registration through the DPIIT portal is absolutely free of cost.

11. Do I need a business plan to register for Startup India?
Yes, a brief on the business and its innovation is required. A pitch deck is optional but recommended.

12. Can I avail government funding after Startup India registration?
Yes, you can apply under the Fund of Funds scheme if you’re DPIIT recognized.

13. Can I apply for trademark or patent fast-track processing after registration?
Yes, DPIIT-recognized startups are eligible for 80% rebate on patent fees and fast-track processing.

14. How do I check the status of my Startup India application?
Log in to your account on the Startup India portal to track your application status.

15. Is Startup India the same as MSME registration?
No, Startup India and MSME (Udyam) registration are separate schemes. You may apply for both based on your business.