Startup India Seed Fund Scheme Eligibility and Documents List for Online Application
The Startup India Seed Fund Scheme (SISFS) is one of the flagship initiatives of the Government of India under the Startup India Mission. It aims to empower early-stage startups with financial assistance, helping them turn innovative ideas into scalable businesses. The scheme, launched by the Hon’ble Prime Minister on January 16, 2021, addresses a key challenge faced by budding entrepreneurs — the lack of initial capital needed to validate ideas and develop prototypes. Startup India Seed Fund Scheme (SISFS)? The Startup India Seed Fund Scheme has been created by the Department for Promotion of Industry and Internal Trade (DPIIT) with an outlay of ₹945 crore. The scheme provides seed funding to startups for: Proof of concept Prototype development Product trials Market entry Commercialization Through this program, the government plans to support around 3,600 entrepreneurs via 300 incubators across India within four years. Highlights of Startup India Seed Fund Scheme Highlight Details Scheme Name Startup India Seed Fund Scheme (SISFS) Launched By Government of India Implementing Department Department for Promotion of Industry and Internal Trade (DPIIT) Date of Launch 16 January 2021 Total Outlay ₹945 Crore Fund Disbursement Through eligible incubators Target Beneficiaries Early-stage startups across India Estimated Reach 3,600 entrepreneurs and 300 incubators Purpose Provide financial assistance for proof of concept, prototype, and market entry Key Focus Sectors Agriculture, Health, Education, Energy, Mobility, Biotechnology, Fintech, etc. Objectives of SISFS The primary goal of the Startup India Seed Fund Scheme is to create a robust startup ecosystem in India by addressing capital inadequacy at the early stages. Key objectives include: Providing seed capital for innovative business ideas. Supporting startups in developing proof of concept and prototypes. Reducing dependence on external investors in early phases. Encouraging innovation and self-employment. Promoting job creation through successful startup growth. The scheme acts as a lifeline for many first-time entrepreneurs who have ideas but lack financial backing to test and validate them. Eligibility Criteria for Startup India Seed Fund Scheme Registration To ensure fair access and genuine utilization, startups must meet the following eligibility conditions: DPIIT Recognition – The startup must be recognized by DPIIT. (Apply here: Startup India Recognition Page https://www.startupindia.gov.in/content/sih/en/startupgov/startup_recognition_page.html) Age of Startup – Must be incorporated not more than 2 years ago at the time of application. Innovative Business Idea – Should aim to develop a product or service with market potential, commercial viability, and scope for scaling. Technology-Driven – The startup should use technology in its core product, service, business model, or distribution method. Funding History – Should not have received more than ₹10 lakh under any other Central or State Government scheme.(This does not include competition prize money, subsidized workspace, or access to labs.) Ownership – At least 51% shareholding should be held by Indian promoters, as per Companies Act, 2013 and SEBI regulations. Sector Preference – Startups working in the following sectors will be prioritized: Social Impact Waste Management Water & Energy Education Agriculture & Food Processing Biotechnology & Healthcare Mobility, Defence, Space, Textiles, Oil & Gas, etc. Application Limit – Each startup can avail seed support once in the form of grant or debt/convertible debenture. List of Documents Required for Startup India Seed Fund Scheme Startups applying for SISFS need to keep the following documents ready for submission through an incubator: DPIIT Recognition Certificate Certificate of Incorporation / Registration Detailed Business Plan or Pitch Deck Proof of Concept / Prototype Details PAN Card of the Startup Aadhaar Card of Founders / Promoters Shareholding Pattern (cap table) Bank Account Details (cancelled cheque or bank statement) Financial Statements (if available) Declaration of No Prior Government Funding exceeding ₹10 lakh Technology Details ...
The Startup India Seed Fund Scheme (SISFS) is one of the flagship initiatives of the Government of India under the Startup India Mission. It aims to empower early-stage startups with financial assistance, helping them turn innovative ideas into scalable businesses. The scheme, launched by the Hon’ble Prime Minister on January 16, 2021, addresses a key challenge faced by budding entrepreneurs — the lack of initial capital needed to validate ideas and develop prototypes. Startup India Seed Fund Scheme (SISFS)? The Startup India Seed Fund Scheme has been created by the Department for Promotion of Industry and Internal Trade (DPIIT) with...