Government of India

The Government of India operates one of the world's largest startup support ecosystems through its Startup India initiative, launched in 2016 under the Department for Promotion of Industry and Internal Trade (DPIIT). The central government provides funding, tax benefits, regulatory simplification, and mentorship to recognized startups across the country. Key programs include the Startup India Seed Fund Scheme (SISFS), Fund of Funds for Startups managed through SIDBI, and sector-specific schemes run by ministries such as MeitY, DST, BIRAC, and the Ministry of MSME.

Beyond Startup India, the central government funds Technology Innovation Hubs at IITs through the National Mission on Interdisciplinary Cyber-Physical Systems, runs ATAL Innovation Mission for school-level tinkering labs and incubators, and supports the NIDHI program for incubator development. Multiple departments run grant and equity-free funding programs targeting specific sectors including agriculture, biotechnology, defense, and clean energy.

Who Benefits

Startups at all stages across India, from student innovators to growth-stage companies. DPIIT-recognized startups gain access to tax exemptions, simplified compliance, public procurement benefits, and self-certification under labor and environmental laws.