Patent Reimbursement Incentives: Karnataka Startup Policy
Under Karnataka Startup Policy by KBITS, Government of Karnataka
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Quick Answer
Reimbursement for patent filing and prosecution fees for KBITS-registered, incubated startups.
- Funding amount
- ₹2 Lakhs – ₹10 Lakhs
- Funding type
- Subsidy
- Provider
- KBITS, Government of Karnataka
- Application deadline
- Rolling
- Location
- Karnataka
About this subsidy
The Karnataka Startup Policy offers essential patent reimbursement incentives, specifically tailored for incubated startups officially registered with the Karnataka Startup Cell. This program is spearheaded by the Karnataka Biotechnology and Information Technology Services (KBITS), a pivotal agency under the Government of Karnataka. KBITS is dedicated to fostering and nurturing the state's technology and startup ecosystem, providing strategic support and resources to promote innovation and entrepreneurship. The policy's primary goal is to alleviate the significant financial expenditures associated with securing intellectual property rights, which are crucial for promising technology-driven ventures within Karnataka to protect their innovations and maintain a competitive edge.
Eligible startups can claim reimbursement for costs related to both the filing and subsequent prosecution of their patent applications. This covers mandatory government fees and professional attorney/drafting fees. For Indian patents that are successfully awarded, the program provides reimbursement up to a limit of INR 2 lakh. Startups securing awarded foreign patents on a singular subject matter are eligible for a more substantial reimbursement, capped at INR 10 lakh. This higher limit for international patents reflects the increased costs and strategic importance of global IP protection, encouraging Karnataka-based startups to safeguard their innovations on an international scale.
The reimbursement process is structured into two distinct stages to provide timely support. An initial 75% of the approved costs is disbursed to the startup immediately following the successful filing of the patent application. The remaining 25% of the reimbursement is provided once the patent has been officially granted by the relevant patent authority. This structured approach ensures financial assistance throughout the patenting journey, directly assisting startups in safeguarding their technological innovations and fostering a stronger IP landscape in the state.
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
Karnataka Digital Economy Mission (KDEM) The Karnataka Digital Economy Mission (KDEM) is a not-for-profit Section 8 organisation incorporated in December 2020, operating under the Department of Electronics, Information Technology, Biotechnology and Science & Technology (EITBT),…
Learn moreBenefits & Funding
- Amount
- ₹2 Lakhs – ₹10 Lakhs
What You Get
Reimbursement for patent filing and prosecution fees, including government and attorney fees. Up to INR 2 lakh for Indian patents, INR 10 lakh for foreign patents. Funds disbursed in two stages: 75% after filing, 25% upon grant. Aims to alleviate financial expenditures for securing intellectual property rights.
- Disbursement
- Tranched
- Bootstrap friendly
- Yes
Timelines & Process
Applications
Rolling basis
Selection Process
Initial inspection and verification of documents by Karnataka Startup Cell. A Nodal Officer performs due diligence on expenses. Startup Cell recommends to KBITS Managing Director for final sanction.
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
Who is eligible for the Patent Reimbursement Incentives?
Eligible applicants are incubated startups registered with the Karnataka Startup Cell and holding a valid KBITS registration number. The patent must be technology-based and have been filed within the policy's validity.
What is the maximum reimbursement amount available?
Startups can receive up to INR 2 lakh for an awarded Indian patent and up to INR 10 lakh for an awarded foreign patent on a single subject matter.
How is the reimbursement disbursed?
Reimbursement is provided in two stages: 75% after the patent is filed and the remaining 25% after the patent is granted. Payments are typically made within three months of application approval.
What types of expenses are covered by this program?
The reimbursement covers mandatory government fees and attorney/drafting fees associated with the filing and prosecution of patent applications.
Can I apply if my patent has already been granted?
Yes, eligibility explicitly states that applicants must have already filed or been granted the patent, and paid all associated fees, prior to applying for reimbursement.
Sources
Data on this page is compiled from official program and provider references.
News
- Karnataka Startup Policy Makes Government the First Customerurbanacres.in · last week
- Karnataka Startup Policy Opens Government Departmentsurbanacres.in · last month
Source: Google News aggregated
