Marketing Incentives: Karnataka Startup Policy (International Marketing Reimbursement)
Under Karnataka Startup Policy by KBITS, Government of Karnataka
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Quick Answer
Reimbursement for international marketing expenses (up to Rs 5L) for Karnataka startups; preference for women founders.
- Funding amount
- Up to ₹5 Lakhs
- Funding type
- Subsidy
- Provider
- KBITS, Government of Karnataka
- Application deadline
- Rolling
- Location
- Karnataka
About this subsidy
The Government of Karnataka, through the Karnataka Biotechnology and Information Technology Services (KBITS), offers financial incentives to support startups in their international marketing efforts. KBITS, a pivotal nodal agency of the state government, is instrumental in promoting the sustained growth of the IT, BT, and Startup sectors within Karnataka. Its overarching mandate is to foster a dynamic and competitive startup ecosystem, enabling local innovations to achieve global recognition and success. This program specifically aims to reimburse eligible expenses incurred by startups participating in global trade shows, international conferences, and other strategic promotional activities, thereby facilitating their entry into new markets.
Recognizing the critical importance of global market access for scaling innovative ventures, this scheme empowers Karnataka-based startups to overcome financial barriers associated with international expansion. By supporting participation in global events and marketing initiatives, the program directly contributes to enhancing the visibility of Karnataka's startups on the world stage, attracting potential investors, partners, and customers.
Under this scheme, eligible startups can claim reimbursement for 30% of their actual international marketing costs, with a maximum cap of Rs. 5 Lakhs per company annually. The reimbursement covers a comprehensive range of activities, including travel expenses for trade show participation, various international marketing and sales promotion initiatives, and costs associated with digital and print publications for brand building and global outreach. Additionally, subscriptions to vital market research materials, which provide crucial insights into international markets, are also eligible for reimbursement. The financial support is provided to offset a portion of critical international outreach expenses. Specifics include economy air travel, and a daily allowance for lodging, food, and local commute during international travel, capped at ₹9,300 per day. While the core support is monetary reimbursement, the program effectively enables market access and global exposure for Karnataka-based startups, positioning them for international growth.
Claims are processed on a half-yearly basis within the financial year, and must be submitted within six months of the expense being incurred. The program explicitly gives preference for reimbursement to applications submitted by woman members of the startup, underscoring a key objective to promote diversity and inclusion within the state's burgeoning startup ecosystem, encouraging more women entrepreneurs to take their ventures globally.
Eligibility
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Full eligibility criteria — entity type, stage, sector, founder profile and registration requirements — plus your fit for this program. Sign up to view.
Subsidy providers
The Karnataka Digital Economy Mission (KDEM) is a not-for-profit Section 8 organisation under the Department of Electronics, Information Technology, Biotechnology and Science & Technology, Government of Karnataka. Its website lists several startup programmes across the state,…
Learn moreBenefits & Funding
- Amount
- Up to ₹5 Lakhs
What You Get
Reimbursement up to Rs 5 Lakhs annually for 30% of international marketing expenses, covering travel (economy air, ₹9,300/day allowance), promotional activities, digital/print publications, and market research subscriptions. Enables market access and global exposure. Preference for women founders.
- Disbursement
- Reimbursement
- Bootstrap friendly
- Yes
Timelines & Process
Applications
Rolling basis
Selection Process
Applications are submitted to the Karnataka Startup Cell and verified upon receipt. The Nodal Officer recommends the application to the Managing Director of KBITS for sanction. Approved reimbursements cover international marketing expenses incurred by eligible Karnataka-registered DPIIT startups.
How to apply
Four steps from draft to disbursement — one action each.
- 1
Line up your documents
Keep every document from the checklist ready in one folder. Missing docs are the #1 reason applications get bounced.
- 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 reimbursement amount I can claim per year?
The program offers a maximum reimbursement of Rs. 5 Lakhs per company per financial year.
What types of expenses are eligible for reimbursement?
Eligible expenses include trade show participation costs (travel), international marketing and sales promotion, publication costs (image, video, audio, textual), and subscriptions to market research material.
Is there a preference for any specific type of applicant?
Yes, preference for reimbursement is given to applications from woman members of the startup.
How often can I submit claims?
Claims can be submitted on a half-yearly basis within each financial year, and must be made within 6 months of the expense being incurred.
Who makes the final decision on reimbursement applications?
The decision of the Managing Director, KBITS, is final regarding all applications.
Sources
Data on this page is compiled from official program and provider references.
News
- Karnataka Startup Policy Makes Government the First Customerurbanacres.in · 2 weeks ago
- Karnataka Startup Policy Opens Government Departmentsurbanacres.in · last month
Source: Google News aggregated
