GENESIS Investment 2.0
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Quick Answer
MeitY Startup Hub invites tech startups from Tier II and Tier III cities for a 1:1 matching equity investment up to ₹50 lakh to fuel growth and scale impact.
- Funding amount
- Up to ₹50 Lakhs
- Funding type
- Equity
- Provider
- MeitY Startup Hub
- Application deadline
- 28d — 24 Sept 2026
- Location
- Open to startups registered in India
About this funding program
The GENESIS Investment 2.0 initiative, spearheaded by MeitY Startup Hub (MSH), is designed to invigorate India's deep-tech startup ecosystem, particularly targeting promising ventures in Tier II and Tier III cities. This program aims to bridge the critical funding gap often experienced by early to growth-stage technology startups, providing crucial capital support to accelerate their journey from product-market fit to significant scale. Through a 1:1 matching fund of up to ₹50 lakh, eligible startups can strengthen their access to capital while connecting with investors and unlocking opportunities to scale faster.
In alignment with the broader "Gen-Next Support for Innovative Startups (GENESIS)" scheme, this component specifically focuses on offering a 1:1 matching investment. This structure ensures that startups that have successfully attracted private capital can further strengthen their financial position, enabling them to invest in R&D, market expansion, talent acquisition, and operational scaling. Beyond capital, GENESIS Investment 2.0 is positioned as a catalyst for deeper engagement with the investor community, fostering connections that are vital for long-term sustainable growth. The emphasis on non-metro cities underscores MeitY's commitment to decentralizing India's innovation landscape, creating equitable opportunities for entrepreneurs nationwide and tapping into diverse regional talent pools.
If you are a startup ready to raise capital, connect with investors, and take your next big step, this is your opportunity to apply and benefit from this growth-enabling initiative.
Eligibility
See if you're eligible
Full eligibility criteria — entity type, stage, sector, founder profile and registration requirements — plus your fit for this program. Create a free account to view.
Funding providers
Benefits & Funding
- Amount
- Up to ₹50 Lakhs
What You Get
Eligible startups can receive a 1:1 matching equity investment up to ₹50 lakh (INR 5,000,000). This substantial equity investment is directly matched against qualifying external/private funds already raised by the startup, reinforcing their capital base without incurring debt. The program is designed to fuel growth by enabling access to significant capital, which can be strategically deployed for product development, market penetration, and scaling operations. Additionally, beneficiaries gain invaluable opportunities to connect with a broader network of investors, enhancing their future fundraising prospects and providing pathways to strategic partnerships and market access crucial for accelerated impact. The support is designed to facilitate faster scaling and bolster the startup's overall market presence.
Timelines & Process
Selection Process
The selection process for GENESIS Investment 2.0 involves a multi-stage evaluation. Initially, applications are screened for strict adherence to the eligibility criteria, including legal entity type, Indian ownership, registration in specified city tiers, DPIIT certification, and market-ready product status. Startups must also demonstrate prior investment from qualifying private sources. Subsequently, a selection committee, comprising experts from MeitY Startup Hub and potentially external industry and investment specialists, will conduct a thorough assessment of the business proposition, technological innovation, market potential, and financial viability. This may involve detailed reviews of financial performance, technology roadmap, and proposed use of funds. Startups may be invited for presentations or interviews to elaborate on their applications and engage with the committee. Final decisions are made based on comprehensive compliance checks and strategic alignment with the scheme's objectives to foster tech startups in Tier II/III cities.
Application Process
- 1
Apply Online
Submit your application with all required documents through the MeitY Startup Hub portal.
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How to apply
Four steps from draft to disbursement — one action each.
- 1
Draft your application
Answer the form inside the grant tracker — AI drafts each response using your past answers, so you're not starting from a blank page.
- 2
Submit on the official portal
Use the official application link and verify all details before final submission.
- 3
Follow up
Reach out 5–7 days after submitting to confirm receipt and ask about the review timeline.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the maximum matching investment I can receive?
Eligible startups can receive a 1:1 matching investment up to ₹50 lakh (INR 5,000,000).
Is this program open to all Indian startups?
No, the program specifically targets Indian Private Limited Companies registered in Tier-II or Tier-III cities, with at least 51% Indian ownership. A valid DPIIT certificate is mandatory.
What kind of prior funding is considered for matching?
Only investment raised from a qualifying external/private investor is considered. Government funding and Foreign Direct Investments (FDIs) are not included as the matching base.
Are service-based platforms eligible?
No, the program focuses on startups working on tech-based products/software in MeitY-promoted domains. Service platforms are explicitly not selected.
What stage should my startup be in to apply?
Your startup must have a market-ready product. While revenue generation is preferred, it is not a hard mandatory criterion. Idea-stage or pre-product startups are not eligible.
What are the key benefits of participating in GENESIS Investment 2.0?
Participants receive significant capital in the form of a 1:1 matching equity investment up to ₹50 lakh, alongside enhanced opportunities to connect with a network of investors and strategic partners, enabling faster growth and market access.
Sources
Data on this page is compiled from official program and provider references.
