Scheme for assistance for Start Ups/ Innovation: Pre- Series A Funding
By Industries and Mines Department, Government of Gujarat
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Quick Answer
Gujarat government's Pre-Series A funding scheme managed by GVFL to support post-commercialization, pre-traction startups across all sectors in Gujarat.
Results & next round
Applications for this round closed on 6 August 2025. The organiser has not published a selection list that we can verify yet.
Selections for this programme are announced by Industries and Mines Department, Government of Gujarat. Official links are listed under Sources below.
We update this page when results are published, and when the next round opens.
About this funding program
The "Scheme for Assistance for Start Ups/ Innovation" is an umbrella scheme launched by the Industries and Mines Department, Gujarat, under the Gujarat Industrial Policy. Effective from August 7th, 2020, to August 6th, 2025, it aims to drive economic growth by generating jobs, fostering competition, and introducing next-gen solutions. The "Pre-Series A Funding" component specifically addresses the financial gap, often termed the "valley of death," in a startup's lifecycle. This critical phase typically occurs after commercialization when startups have begun generating revenue but have not yet achieved significant market traction. Under this scheme, Gujarat Venture Finance Limited (GVFL) manages a dedicated fund to provide mid-level Pre-Series A funding. This support is particularly beneficial for startups that have previously received seed support through various government initiatives, facilitating their next stage of development and market entry. The program is designed to propel promising startups towards greater market success and investor readiness.
Eligibility
See if you're eligible
Full eligibility criteria — entity type, stage, sector, founder profile and registration requirements — plus your fit for this program. Sign up to view.
Funding providers
The Industries & Mines Department (IMD) of the Government of Gujarat is the state department that makes industrial and MSME policy. Its executive arm, the Industries Commissionerate, implements those policies, both the state's and the central government's, and runs the Startup…
Learn moreBenefits & Funding
What You Get
This scheme provides crucial Pre-Series A financial support to startups, bridging the critical 'valley of death' phase. This funding helps companies that have begun generating revenue but are yet to gain significant market traction, enabling them to scale operations and accelerate growth. Managed by Gujarat Venture Finance Limited (GVFL), it specifically targets startups that have often previously received government seed support, facilitating their next stage of development and market entry. The investment aims to de-risk the startup for future larger funding rounds and provide essential capital for market expansion and product refinement.
Timelines & Process
Selection Process
Applications are reviewed based on the innovative idea or concept, the recommendation from an approved Nodal Institution, and the startup's readiness for Pre-Series A funding. The selection committee evaluates whether the startup is genuinely in the 'valley of death' phase, characterized by post-commercialization revenue generation but lacking significant market traction. Gujarat Venture Finance Limited (GVFL), which manages the fund, makes final decisions on providing mid-level Pre-Series A funding to selected startups.
Application Process
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Register on Portal
Applicants must visit the Startup Gujarat online portal to register using their email ID and complete a common application form.
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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.
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Submit on the official portal
Use the official application link and verify all details before final submission.
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Follow up
Reach out 5–7 days after submitting to confirm receipt and ask about the review timeline.
Program templates & documents
Files the program publishes for applicants — download these and apply in the prescribed format.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the purpose of the Pre-Series A Funding component?
The Pre-Series A Funding component aims to bridge the financial gap, known as the "valley of death," for startups that have achieved commercialization and are generating revenue but lack significant market traction. This support is crucial for their sustained growth and scalability.
Who is eligible to apply for this funding?
Any individual or group with an innovative idea or concept, recommended by an approved Nodal Institution, is eligible. The scheme is open to startups across all sectors. Startups currently benefiting from the Student Startup and Innovation Policy (SSIP) are also explicitly eligible.
Is this scheme sector-specific?
No, the scheme is sector-agnostic. It welcomes startups from any branch of science, technology, engineering, agriculture, healthcare, and other innovative fields, promoting diverse entrepreneurial ventures.
How can I apply for the Pre-Series A Funding?
Applications are submitted online through the Startup Gujarat portal. You first need to register on the portal, fill out a common application form, and then select this specific scheme from your dashboard to complete the application details and submit your proposal.
When is the scheme effective until?
The umbrella scheme, under which this funding component falls, is effective from August 7th, 2020, to August 6th, 2025. Applications are accepted during this period.
What kind of support is provided in addition to funding?
While the primary benefit is Pre-Series A equity funding, the requirement for recommendation by an approved Nodal Institution suggests that startups may also leverage the support and network of these institutions. The overall ecosystem of the Gujarat Industrial Policy aims to foster a competitive environment and introduce next-gen solutions.
Sources
Data on this page is compiled from official program and provider references.
