StartinUp

• DPIIT-recognised startups operating in Uttar Pradesh seeking state-level grant support.

About this scheme

StartinUp is a flagship program designed to foster innovation and entrepreneurship, specifically targeting ventures at the grassroot level within Uttar Pradesh. Its core objectives include significant employment generation and the introduction of cutting-edge, emerging technologies into the market. This initiative is managed by SIIC IIT Kanpur, the Startup Incubation and Innovation Centre at the Indian Institute of Technology Kanpur, which stands as a premier technology business incubator (TBI) in India. SIIC IIT Kanpur is recognized for its effective ecosystem that supports the ideation, creation, and scaling of deep technology-driven startups, thereby making substantial contributions to the state's economic development and empowering its youth through various strategic initiatives and mentorship programs.

The program is structured to provide a comprehensive financial support framework tailored for early-stage startups. Successful applicants are eligible for a sustenance allowance of INR 17,500 per month, disbursed over a crucial period of one year. This allowance is intended to help founders cover essential operational costs and personal living expenses, allowing them to fully commit to their venture's growth. Beyond this, a substantial one-time prototyping grant of up to INR 5 Lakh is made available. This grant is provided in a single tranche and is specifically earmarked for startups officially registered with both DPIIT (Department for Promotion of Industry and Internal Trade) and StartInUP, enabling them to develop Minimum Viable Products (MVPs), conduct crucial testing, and refine their technological solutions.

Further financial assistance is provided as vital seed capital, primarily allocated for marketing and go-to-market strategies, capped at INR 7.5 Lakhs per startup. To provide even greater impetus, an additional 50% of this amount can be disbursed based on specific milestones, potentially offering a total of up to INR 11.25 Lakhs for marketing support. This integrated funding approach is designed to strategically support startups through their early stages, empowering them not only to develop innovative products but also to effectively penetrate and capture wider markets, ensuring their long-term viability and impact.

Who can apply

• **DPIIT Registration**: Startups must hold valid registration with the Department for Promotion of Industry and Internal Trade (DPIIT), Government of India. This national registration is crucial as it officially recognizes a startup as an eligible entity, enabling access to various government schemes and benefits across India and signifying adherence to national startup policies.
• **StartInUP Registration**: Additionally, startups must be registered under the StartInUP initiative by the Government of Uttar Pradesh. This state-specific registration is essential for accessing the benefits and support mechanisms offered by the Uttar Pradesh startup ecosystem, aligning the startup with the state's vision for fostering local innovation and growth.

Eligible entity types: Private Limited, LLP, Partnership

Benefits & funding

• Provides a monthly sustenance allowance of INR 17,500 for one year, a prototyping grant up to INR 5 Lakh, and seed capital for marketing up to INR 7.5 Lakhs (potentially INR 11.25 Lakhs with milestones).
• Benefits also include mentorship and support from SIIC IIT Kanpur's deep technology-driven startup ecosystem.

How the application process works

The journey below is informational, compiled from the official program guidelines. Applications are submitted directly with SIIC IIT Kanpur, in your own name.

1. 1

   The online process involves initial application submission, followed by expert screening.

2. 2

   Shortlisted startups undergo detailed proposal submission and due diligence, potentially including interviews.

3. 3

   A select group presents their ideas at a pitch presentation to judges, leading to final selection.

Frequently asked questions