Startup Grants and Funding Programs for Profit-Stage Startups in India — September 2026

Six active programs are currently open for profit-stage startups in India as of September 2026, offering a mix of grants, incubation support, and competitions. Notable among these are the various state-level patent assistance and reimbursement schemes from Madhya Pradesh, Karnataka, and Haryana, alongside international marketing incentives from Karnataka.

The funding landscape for profit-stage startups in India typically focuses on enabling growth, market expansion, and intellectual property protection. Support is often available for ventures demonstrating proven revenue models or market traction, with eligibility thresholds frequently tied to a startup's operational duration, existing funding rounds, or DPIIT recognition status. These programs aim to provide strategic capital for scaling operations rather than initial seed funding.

Active Programs for Profit-Stage Startups

Patent Assistance (Department of MSME, Government of Madhya Pradesh)

The Patent Assistance program, part of the Madhya Pradesh Startup Policy 2022, supports innovation and intellectual property protection for startups in the state. Administered by the Department of MSME, Government of Madhya Pradesh, this initiative reflects the agency's commitment to fostering a supportive ecosystem for micro, small, and medium enterprises.

Through this program, eligible startups can secure grant funding of up to ₹5,00,000 to cover patent-related expenses. This support allows profit-stage startups to protect their innovations as they expand their market presence and develop new products or services. The program operates on a rolling application basis, providing continuous access to funding.

Patent Reimbursement Incentives: Karnataka Startup Policy (KBITS, Government of Karnataka)

The Karnataka Startup Policy offers patent reimbursement incentives specifically for incubated startups registered with the Karnataka Startup Cell. KBITS, under the Government of Karnataka, leads this program, which aims to nurture the state's technology and startup ecosystem by supporting innovation.

Eligible startups can receive up to ₹10,00,000 in reimbursement for intellectual property rights costs. This financial support helps technology-driven profit-stage ventures protect their innovations and maintain a competitive advantage without significant upfront capital drain. Applications are accepted on a continuous basis.

Marketing Incentives: Karnataka Startup Policy (International Marketing Reimbursement) (KBITS, Government of Karnataka)

The Government of Karnataka, through KBITS, provides financial incentives for startups' international marketing efforts. KBITS works to promote the growth of the IT, BT, and Startup sectors in Karnataka, helping local innovations achieve global recognition.

This program reimburses eligible expenses, up to ₹5,00,000, incurred by startups participating in global trade shows, international conferences, and other strategic promotional activities. For profit-stage startups, these incentives facilitate entry into new international markets and global expansion, supporting their growth trajectory. The application process is ongoing.

Haryana Startup Policy 2022 Patent Cost Reimbursement Scheme (Department of Industries & Commerce, Government of Haryana)

The Haryana Startup Policy 2022, supported by the Department of Industries & Commerce, Government of Haryana, establishes a framework for fostering innovation and entrepreneurship. The policy aims to promote technological advancements and protect intellectual property within the state.

Under this policy, the Patent Cost Reimbursement Scheme provides grant funding of up to ₹25,00,000 to alleviate the financial burden of securing patents. This scheme is particularly beneficial for profit-stage startups in Haryana looking to safeguard their R&D investments and intellectual assets as they scale operations. Applications are open continuously.

Innovations for Social Good and Better Bharat (ISGBB) (Capgemini)

The Innovations for Social Good and Better Bharat (ISGBB) initiative is a multi-state program designed to strengthen regional innovation ecosystems across India. Powered by Capgemini and implemented by BharatCares in collaboration with SRF Foundation, ISGBB focuses on driving social impact through structured collaboration.

This competition seeks solutions that address community needs and offers variable funding amounts to successful participants. Profit-stage startups with a focus on social good and measurable impact can leverage this platform for recognition, funding, and collaboration opportunities to further their reach and influence. The program accepts applications on a rolling basis.

Odisha MSME State Awards (MSME Department, Government of Odisha)

The Odisha MSME State Awards program, under the Odisha MSME Development Policy 2022, recognizes and incentivizes micro, small, and medium enterprises. This annual scheme honors enterprises demonstrating strong performance, innovation, and contributions to the state's economy.

Successful MSMEs can receive awards of up to ₹1,51,000. For profit-stage startups, these awards offer financial recognition and public visibility, which can aid in brand building and attracting further investment. The awards highlight leading enterprises, encouraging higher standards and fostering a competitive ecosystem. While annual, submissions are often accepted on a rolling cycle.

Before Applying

Applicants should note several eligibility constraints relevant to these programs. Many opportunities are geographically restricted, with specific patent and marketing incentives available only for startups domiciled in Madhya Pradesh, Karnataka, or Haryana. The Odisha MSME State Awards are similarly limited to enterprises within Odisha. Furthermore, programs like Karnataka's patent reimbursement require startups to be officially registered with the Karnataka Startup Cell or be incubated, indicating a need for prior institutional affiliation.

All programs listed have continuous or rolling deadlines, meaning applications are accepted year-round. While this offers flexibility, it also implies a consistent level of competition. Startups should prepare their applications thoroughly and submit them when ready, as there are no fixed cohort intake periods or upcoming closing dates to plan around. This continuous submission process means evaluations may occur periodically, and prompt application can be advantageous.