Startup India Registration

Startup India is a Government of India initiative launched, in January 2016, to boost the startup ecosystem for supporting innovation and startups in India.

Benefits of Startup India Registration

Following are the benefits of Startup India Initiatives

• Three years of tax benefits will be available to Startups. 

• Startups will be permitted to self-certify compliance with nine labour laws and environmental laws. In the case of labour laws, no inspection will be conducted for three years.

• Startup India enables companies to register through their mobile application and upload relevant documents. There will also be single-window clearances for approvals, registrations and filing compliances among other things.

• The patent filing approach will be simplified. The Startup will enjoy a rebate of 80% of the fee in the patent application. The startup will bear only the statutory fees and the government will bear all facilitator fees.

• The Startup India programme will encourage research and innovation among students who are aspiring entrepreneurs and seven new research parks will be set up to provide facilities for startups in the R&D sector.

• Equal opportunities will be provided for both startups and experienced entrepreneurs. Earlier this was not possible because all applicants required either ‘prior experience’ or a ‘prior turnover’. But now, public appropriation norms have been relaxed for startups.

Eligibility Criteria of Startup India Registration

An entity shall be considered as a Startup:

• The Startup should be incorporated as a private limited company or partnership firm or a limited liability partnership

• Turnover should be less than INR 100 Crores in any of the previous financial years

• An entity shall be considered as a startup up to 10 years from the date of its incorporation

• The Startup should be working towards innovation/ improvement of existing products, services and processes and should have the potential to generate employment/ create wealth.

An entity formed by splitting up or reconstruction of an existing business shall not be considered a "Startup"  

How to register in Startup India?

To get recognized as a Startup by the Government of India, you need to register on the Startup India website. Follow the below steps to register in the Startup India portal.

• Visit the Startup India portal

• Click on Register

• Enter your name, email id, mobile number and password to register on the site.

Startup Recognition by DPIIT

The Department for Promotion of  Industry and Internal Trade (DPIIT) is the nodal agency that promotes and regulates industrial growth and production in India. It falls under the aegis of the Ministry of Commerce and Industry.

Under the Startup India Scheme, eligible companies can get recognised as Startups by DPIIT, to access a host of tax benefits, easier compliance, IPR fast-tracking & more. 

• Click here for submitting your application for recognition as a Startup

• Click here to retrieve and continue filling your saved application

• Application status

• Edit Application

3-year tax exemption

Post getting recognition, a Startup may apply for tax exemption under section 80 IAC of the Income Tax Act. Post getting clearance for Tax exemption, the Startup can avail of tax holiday for 3 consecutive financial years out of its first ten years since incorporation.

Eligibility Criteria for applying to Income Tax exemption (80IAC):

1. The entity should be a recognized Startup  

2. Only Private limited or a Limited Liability Partnership is eligible for tax exemption under Section 80IAC

3. The Startup should have been incorporated after 1st April 2016 

The Startup India Tax Exemption link is provided below. 

• Apply for Income Tax Exemption under Section 80IAC of the Income Tax Act

Angel Tax Exemption

Post getting recognition, a Startup may apply for Angel Tax Exemption. Eligibility Criteria for tax exemption under Section 56 of the Income Tax Act (Angel Tax) :

1. The entity should be a DPIIT recognized Startup

2. The aggregate amount of paid-up share capital and share premium of the Startup after the proposed issue of a share, if any, does not exceed INR 25 Crore.

Startup India Angel Tax Exemption link is provided below. 

• Apply for Angel Tax Exemption for Investments above Fair Market Value under Section 56 of the Income Tax Act

• Validate Certificate Number / Entity Name

Schemes for Startups in India

Following are a few Government schemes for startups in India

Support for International Patent Protection in Electronics and & Information Technology (SIP-EIT)

SIP-EIT is a scheme to provide financial support to MSMEs and Technology Startup units for international patent filing to encourage innovation and recognize the value and capabilities of global IP along with capturing growth opportunities in the ICTE sector.

The Venture Capital Assistance Scheme

Venture Capital Assistance is financial support in the form of an interest-free loan provided by the Small Farmer's Agri-Business Consortium (SFAC) to qualifying projects to meet the shortfall in the capital requirement for the implementation of the project.

Support for International Patent Protection in Electronics and & Information Technology (SIP-EIT) 

SIP-EIT is a scheme to provide financial support to MSMEs and Technology Startup units for international patent filing to encourage innovation and recognize the value and capabilities of global IP along with capturing growth opportunities in the ICTE sector.

The Venture Capital Assistance Scheme

Venture Capital Assistance is financial support in the form of an interest-free loan provided by the Small Farmer's Agri-Business Consortium (SFAC) to qualifying projects to meet the shortfall in the capital requirement for the implementation of the project.

Stand-Up India for Financing SC/ST and/or Women Entrepreneurs

Stand Up India Scheme facilitate bank loans between 10 lakh and 1 crore to at least one scheduled caste (SC) or Scheduled Tribe, borrower and at least one woman per bank branch for setting up a greenfield enterprise. This enterprise may be in the manufacturing, services or trading sector. In the case of non-individual enterprises, at least 51% of the shareholding and controlling stake should be held by either an SC/ST or Woman entrepreneur.

Single Point Registration Scheme

The Government is the single largest buyer of a variety of goods. To increase the share of purchases from the small-scale sector, the Government Stores Purchase Programme was launched in 1955-56. NSIC registers Micro & Small Enterprises (MSEs) under the Single Point Registration scheme (SPRS) for participation in Government Purchases.

ExtraMural Research or Core Research Grant

The extramural Research (EMR) funding scheme of SERB to the academic institution, research laboratories and other R&D organizations to carry out basic research in all frontier areas of Science and Engineering is in limelight for more than four decades since the inception of SERC. This scheme encourages emerging and eminent scientists in the field of science and engineering for the individual-centric competitive mode of research funding. Since the scheme provides core research support to the active researchers, the existing name Extramural Research (EMR) has been renamed Core Research Grant (CRG).

High Risk -High Reward Research

High Risk and High Reward Research is a scheme supporting and inviting new proposals and ideas expected to have a paradigm-shifting influence on Science and Technology

IREDA NCEF Refinance Scheme

Indian Renewable Energy Development Agency Ltd. (IREDA) has published a revised refinance scheme under the support of The National Clean Energy Fund (NCEF) elaborating on the revival of the operations of existing biomass power & small hydropower projects affected due to unforeseen circumstances

Dairy Entrepreneurship Development Scheme

The department of Animal Husbandry, dairying and fisheries is implementing Dairy Entrepreneurship Development Scheme (DEDS) for generating self-employment opportunities in the dairy sector, covering activities such as enhancement of milk production, procurement, preservation, transportation, processing and marketing of milk by providing back-ended capital subsidy for bankable projects. The scheme is being implemented by National Bank for Agriculture and Rural Development (NABARD)

Revamped Scheme of Fund for Regeneration of Traditional Industries (SFURTI)

SFURTI is a Scheme of the Fund for Regeneration of Traditional Industries. The Ministry of MSME has launched this scheme in the year 2005 with the view to promote Cluster development. KVIC is the nodal agency for the promotion of Cluster development for Khadi as well as for V.I. products. To date, a no. of 76 Clusters have come up as per the scheme and many of these clusters have been completed. The Revamped SFURTI Cluster will intensify the sustainability of the programme beyond the project period through the creation of a Special Purpose Vehicle (SPV) or deemed SPV. Further, the revamped guideline has added many new features for the all-round development of SFURTI clusters

Assistance to Professional Bodies & Seminars/Symposia

The Programme extends partial support on a selective basis, for organizing seminars/symposia/ training programmes/workshops/conferences at the national as well as international levels. The support is provided to Research Institutes/ Universities/Medical and Engineering Colleges and other Academic Institutes/ Professional Bodies that organize such events for the scientific community to keep them abreast of the latest developments in their specific areas. The support is generally given to encouraging the participation of young scientists and research workers in such events and the publication of proceedings/abstracts for wider dissemination. The Programme also supports S&T Professional bodies.

Multiplier Grants Scheme

Department of Electronics and Information Technology (DeitY) is implementing Multiplier Grants Scheme (MGS). MGS aims to encourage collaborative R&D between industry and academics/ R&D institutions for the development of products and packages. Under the scheme, if the industry supports R&D for the development of products that can be commercialized at the institution level, the government will also provide financial support that is up to twice the amount provided by the industry. The proposals for getting financial support under the scheme are to be submitted jointly by the industry and institutions.

The Scheme is extended up to 31st March 2020 with a total outlay of Rs. 36 Crores and DeitY contribution of Rs. 24 Crore. The Technology Development Council (TDC) budget head will be used for the implementation of this scheme. Based on this pilot implementation and feedback, the scheme would be reviewed by the Working Group.

Scheme to Support IPR Awareness Workshops/Seminars in E&IT Sector

The Ministry of Electronics and Information Technology has launched a scheme to Support IPR Awareness Workshops/Seminars for sensitizing and disseminating awareness about Intellectual Property Rights among various stakeholders, especially in the E&IT sector.

Biotechnology Ignition Grant (BIG)

BIRAC believes that the “bio-innovation capital” of the nation would come from novel ideas which have a commercialisation potential and that evolve out of start-ups or academic spin-offs. BIRAC’s strategy is therefore to support the numerous exciting ideas which have an unmet need for funding and mentorship. This strategy is fulfilled through a grant funding scheme called  Biotechnology Ignition Grant (BIG) which is available to scientist entrepreneurs from research institutes, academia and startups.  The Applicant must be either an Incubatee or have a registered company with a functional R&D laboratory to be eligible for this grant. The scheme is designed to stimulate the commercialization of research discoveries by providing very early stage grants to help bridge the gap between discovery and invention.

Small Business Innovation Research Initiative (SBIRI)

The Small Business Innovation Research Initiative (SBIRI) scheme of the Department of Biotechnology, Ministry of Science & Technology, was launched in 2005 to boost Public-Private- Partnership (PPP) efforts in the country. SBIRI was the first of its kind, early-stage, innovation-focused PPP initiative in the area of Biotechnology. The launching of SBIRI has worked as an enabling platform for the target organizations to realize their potential in terms of product and process development and taking them to the market. It has facilitated innovation, risk-taking by small and medium companies and brought together the private industry, public institutions and the government under one roof to promote research and innovation in the Indian Biotech Sector. The projects supported under the scheme have resulted in prominent outcomes in the form of some products which have already come to the market and some promising research leads to seeing a ray of hope for commercialization.

Biotechnology Industry Partnership Programme (BIPP)

Biotechnology Industry Partnership Programme (BIPP) is a government partnership with Industries for support on a cost-sharing basis for path-breaking research in frontier futuristic technology areas having major economic potential and making the Indian industry globally competitive. It is focused on IP creation with ownership retained by Indian industry and wherever relevant, by collaborating scientists.

Pradhan Mantri Mudra Yojana

Micro Units Development and Refinance Agency Ltd. [MUDRA] is an NBFC supporting development of the micro-enterprise sector in the country. MUDRA provides refinance support to Banks / MFIs for lending to micro units having loan requirements up to 10 lakh. MUDRA provides refinance to micro-business under the Scheme of Pradhan Mantri MUDRA Yojana. The other products are for development support to the sector. The bouquet of offerings of MUDRA is depicted below. The offerings are being targeted across the spectrum of beneficiary segments.

4E (End to End Energy Efficiency)

SIDBI launched the 4E Intervention on the occasion of “World Environment Day” on June 5, 2014, to provide technical backstopping and support MSME clients in reducing their power & fuel cost.

Sustainable Finance Scheme

SIDBI has introduced a new scheme called the Sustainable Finance Scheme for funding sustainable development projects that contribute to energy efficiency and cleaner production but are not covered under the international or bilateral lines of credit. All sustainable development projects such as renewable energy projects, Bureau of Energy Efficiency (BEE) star rating, green microfinance, green buildings and eco-friendly labelling, etc. are applicable for the scope of this scheme

SIDBI Make In India Soft Loan Fund For Micro Small And Medium Enterprises (Smile)

SIDBI Make in India Loan For Enterprises (SMILE) was also launched by Mr Jaitley. The Scheme is intended to take forward the Government of India’s ‘Make in India’ campaign and help MSMEs take part in the campaign.

The focus will be on identified 25 sectors under the ‘Make in India’ programme’ with emphasis on financing smaller enterprises within the MSME sector. The scheme is expected to benefit approximately 13,000 enterprises, with employment for nearly 2 lakh persons.

Promoting Innovations in Individuals, Start-ups and MSMEs (PRISM)

PRISM (Promoting Innovations in Individuals, Start-ups and MSMEs) scheme aims to support individual innovators which will enable them to achieve the agenda of inclusive development - one of the thrust areas of the XIIth five year plan (2012-2017). It would also provide support to institutions or organizations set up as Autonomous organizations under a specific statute or as a society registered under the Societies Registration Act, 1860 or Indian Trusts Act, 1882 leading to the development of state-of-art new technology solutions aimed at helping MSME clusters.

NewGen Innovation and Entrepreneurship Development Centre

The NewGen Innovation and Entrepreneurship Development Centre (NewGen IEDC) is being promoted in educational institutions to develop institutional mechanisms to create entrepreneurial culture in S&T academic institutions and to foster techno-entrepreneurship for the generation of wealth and employment by S&T persons. The NewGen IEDCs are established in academic institutions (science colleges, engineering colleges, universities, management institutes) having requisite expertise and infrastructure. 

International Cooperation (IC) Scheme

The Scheme, being implemented by the Ministry of MSME, is an ongoing Scheme of the Ninth Plan (under implementation since 1996), which has been continued for the Twelve Plan (2012-13 to 2016-17) with an outlay of Rs. 24.50 crore.

Enhancement of Competitiveness in the Indian Capital Goods Sector

The scheme has been launched to address technological obsolescence, limited access to quality industrial infrastructure and common facilities. These are pre-requisites for “Make in India”. In the words of our Prime Minister, “Make-In-India is a Lion's Step': Its Symbol is a Lion Made of Cogs. The Make in India logo is derived from the Ashoka Chakra. The lion in the logo stands for strength and power while the wheels are a sign of development and progress.”

Bridge Loan Against Generation-Based Incentive (GBI) Claims

Generation Based Incentive (GBI) was announced by the Ministry of New and Renewable Energy (MNRE) for Grid Interactive Wind and Solar Power Projects with the main aim to broaden the investor base, facilitate the entry of large Independent Power Producers and provide level playing field to various classes of investors. The GBI is provided over and above the feed-in tariff approved by State utilities

Aspire - A Scheme for Promotion of Innovation, Rural Industries and Entrepreneurship

ASPIRE- was launched to set up a network of technology centres and to set up incubation centres to accelerate entrepreneurship and also to promote startups for innovation in the agro-industry

Ayurvedic Biology Program

The programme on Ayurvedic Biology was initiated primarily by the office of the Principal scientific advisor to the Government of India. The programme, now reconceived, is being implemented by the Science and Engineering Research Board (SERB). Against this background, the SERB constituted a Task Force to promote the application of basic sciences in the investigation of Ayurvedic concepts, procedures and products, and nurture the discipline of Ayurvedic Biology

Technology Development Programme

Technology Development Programmes (TDP) is to convert proof-of-concepts for development of pre-competitive/commercial technologies/ techniques/ processes. The commercialization of these technologies needs further assessment/incubation, which does not fall within the scope of the Technology Development Programme. Transfer of technology developed under the project to the industry should ideally be the onus of the host institutions. Proposals of incremental R&D over the existing technologies may be considered for support. Theme based concept proposals for proof of feasibility will not be considered under TSDP-DST. Only full-fledged complete proposals for the development of technology/process/product will be considered under TSDP. Projects related to the design and development of Software/IT, as required for products and processes, as a part of a technology development project shall be considered. Pure software development does not fall within the scope of the programme.

Software Technology Park Scheme

The Software Technology Park (STP) Scheme is a 100 per cent Export Oriented Scheme for the development and export of computer software, including the export of professional services using communication links or physical media

This scheme is unique as it focuses on one product/sector, i.e. computer software. The scheme integrates the government concept of 100 per cent Export Oriented Units (EOU) and Export Processing Zones (EPZ) and the concept of Science Parks / Technology Parks, operating elsewhere in the world

Virasat - A Credit Scheme for Craftspersons

The purpose of this scheme is to help Artisians and Craftspersons in meeting their working capital (making products as per the demand in the market) and fixed capital requirements (types of machinery, types of equipment and tools).

Self Employment Lending Schemes- Credit Line 1-Term Loan Scheme

This scheme is for individual beneficiaries and is implemented through the SCAs. Under the scheme, projects costing up to INR 20 lacs are considered for financing.

NMDFC provides loans to the extent of 90% of the project cost subject to a maximum of INR 18 lacs. The remaining cost of the project is met by the SCA and the beneficiary.

Self Employment Lending Schemes- Credit Line 2-Term Loan Scheme

This scheme is for individual beneficiaries and is implemented through the SCAs. Under the Term Loan Scheme, projects costing up to INR30 lacs are considered for financing. NMDFC provides loans to the extent of 90% of the project cost subject to a maximum of INR 27 lacs. The remaining cost of the project is met by the SCA and the beneficiary.

Self Employment Lending Schemes- Credit Line - 1 - Micro Financing Scheme

Under the Micro Financing Scheme, micro-credit is extended to the members of the Self Help Groups (SHGs), especially the minority women scattered in remote villages and urban slums, who are not able to take advantage of the formal banking credit as well as the NMDFC programmes, through its SCAs. NMDFC is implementing the scheme on the pattern of Grameen Bank of Bangladesh and Rashtriya Mahila Kosh (RMK). The scheme ‘requires that the beneficiaries are organized into Self Help Groups (SHGs) and get into the habit of thrift & credit, however small. The scheme envisages micro-credit to the poorest among the poor through NGOs with a proven track record and their network of Self Help Groups (SHGs). It is an informal loan scheme that ensures quick delivery of loans at the doorsteps of the beneficiaries

Self Employment Lending Schemes- Credit Line - 2 - Micro Financing Scheme

This scheme envisages credit to the poorest amongst the poor through SCAs/NGOs and a network of Self Help Groups (SHGs). It is an informal loan scheme that ensures quick delivery of loans at the doorsteps of the beneficiaries.

Coir Udyami Yojana (CUY)

This is a credit-linked subsidy scheme for setting up coir units with project costs up to Rs.10 lakhs plus one cycle of working capital, which shall not exceed 25% of the project cost. Working capital will not be considered for subsidy.

The scheme's main objective is to facilitate sustainable development of the Coir Industry in the country and is under the ambit of the Ministry of MSME.

Informediary Services

The startups require intensive networking and information about other business ventures. This scheme provides information on business, technology and finance to MSMEs, and also exhibits core competencies of Indian SMEs. This is done through MSME Global mart - www.msmemart.com. This information is available through the annual membership of the portal.

A free membership plan is also provided with limited access and services and a Gold membership plan for SC/STs is also provided with full access and services, which is free of charge.

Self Employment Lending Schemes- Credit Line - 1 - Mahila Samridhi Yojana

It is a unique scheme linking micro-credit with the training to the women members to be formed into SHGs, in the trades such as tailoring, cutting and embroidery, etc. It is being implemented by NMDFC, through the State Channelising Agencies of NMDFC as well as NGOs. Under the Mahila Samridhi Yojana, training is given to a group of around 20 women in any suitable women-friendly craft activity. The group is formed into Self Help Group during the training itself and after the training, micro-credit is provided to the members of the SHG so formed.

Raw Material Assistance Scheme

Raw Material Assistance Scheme aims at helping MSMEs by way of financing the purchase of Raw Materials (both indigenous & imported). This allows MSMEs to focus better on manufacturing quality products.

Coir Vikas Yojana

The scheme facilitates the development of domestic and export markets, skill development and training, empowerment of women, employment/entrepreneurship creation and development, enhanced raw material utilization, trade-related services, welfare activities for the coir workers, etc. This is undertaken through the following 6 schemes:

• Skill Upgradation and Mahila Coir Yojana

• Export Market Promotion (EMP)

• Development of Production Infrastructure (DPI)

• Domestic Market Promotion (DMP)

• Trade and Industry Related Functional Support Services (TIRFSS)

• Welfare Measure (Group Personal Accident Insurance Scheme)

Credit Facilitation Through Bank

To meet the credit requirements of MSME units, NSIC has entered into a Memorandum of Understanding with various Nationalized and Private Sector Banks. Through association with these banks, NSIC arranges for credit support (fund or non-fund based limits) from banks for the MSMEs.

NSIC Infrastructure Scheme - IT Incubator

The scheme aims at creating sustainable entrepreneurship development in the area of Information and Communication Technology (ICT) especially for first-generation entrepreneurs by fostering nurturing innovative ideas for commercially viable business prepositions. Entrepreneurs harness the expertise of NSIC in extending the handholding of start-up companies to become successful small enterprises. The scheme also caters to networking between R&D and Industry beneficiaries to create successful commercial ventures.

Joint Advertising Support

The India tourism Offices overseas extend advertising support to wholesalers, retailers and other organizations also (like Museums, Clubs, special interest groups, etc.) who wish to organize special India promotions. This is to promote the entrepreneur's products or services to potential international customers.

Guidelines for Brochure Support

Brochure Support is a marketing tool used by National Tourism Offices (NTOs) to promote their tourism products amongst the travel trade and the potential consumer. The India Tourism Offices overseas undertake this activity on regular basis. This support to tour operators etc. is given to ensure that India’s tourism products and packages find a place in this brochure and other promotional material produced in the international markets. The startups in the Tourism Industry can use this scheme for marketing their products abroad.

Marketing Assistance Scheme

The various objectives of the scheme are as follow:

• To enhance the marketing capabilities & competitiveness of the MSMEs.

• To showcase the competencies of MSMEs.

• To update MSMEs about the prevalent market scenario and its impact on their activities.

• To facilitate the formation of consortia of MSMEs for marketing their products and services.

• To provide a platform to MSMEs for interaction with large institutional buyers.

• To disseminate/ propagate various programmes of the Government.

• To enrich the marketing skills of the micro, small & medium entrepreneurs.

Procurement and Marketing Support Scheme (P&MS)

The Procurement and Marketing support Scheme would promote and educate MSMEs by organising trade fairs/awareness programs about the GeM portal, Online services and other services. The scheme also encourages Micro and Small enterprises to develop domestic markets and find new ways of promoting new market access initiatives. It will also cover activities required to facilitate market linkages for effective implementation of the Public Procurement Policy for MSEs Order of 2012.

Time Share Resort

To provide standardized world-class services to tourists, the Government of India, Ministry of Tourism has a voluntary scheme for classification of privately owned property into fully operational Time-Share Resorts subject to criteria being met by the owner and approved by the Ministry of Tourism

E-Travel Trade Recognition

The Ministry of Tourism has a scheme for approving hotel projects from the point of view of their suitability for international tourists. A classification committee set up by the Ministry classifies the functioning hotels under the star system into six categories from star one to five star deluxe. Similarly, the Ministry has a scheme of approving Travel Agents, Tour Operators, Adventure Tour Operators and Tourist Transport Operators, the idea being to encourage quality, standard and service in these categories to promote Tourism in India. This is a voluntary scheme open to all bonafide agencies.

National Awards (Individual MSEs)

The Ministry of MSME to recognise the efforts and contribution of MSMEs, givesNational Awards annually to selected entrepreneurs and enterprises under the scheme of National Awards.

National Manufacturing Competitiveness Programme (NMCP)

The National Manufacturing Competitiveness Council (NMCC) has finalised a five-year national manufacturing programme. Ten schemes have been drawn up including schemes for the promotion of ICT, mini tool room, design clinics and marketing support for SMEs. Implementation will be in PPP mode, and financing will be tied up. New ZED certification (Zero Defect and Zero Effect Financial support) is also provided under this scheme.

Assistance under Scheme for setting up Tea Boutiques in India for Domestic Promotion

To showcase Tea's wide varieties in one place and excite the customers especially youth about the qualitative nuances and the correct brewing method in a magnificent & aesthetic ambience, the concept of “Tea Boutique” has been proposed by the tea board which is under the Ministry of Commerce and Industry. The Tea Board will handhold a prospective entrepreneur for three (3) years in terms of financial assistance for setting up the Tea Boutique.

Swarojgar Credit Card

Swarojgar Credit Card (SCC) Scheme was introduced in September 2003 for providing adequate, timely and uninterrupted credit, i.e., working capital including consumption needs and/or block capital requirements to the small artisans, handloom weavers and other self-employed persons including micro-entrepreneurs, SHGs, etc., from the banking system in a flexible, hassle-free and cost-effective manner.

Material Testing Labs

Since MSMEs and entrepreneurs are involved in pleathora of testing new products and are always in a quest to achieve international standards of excellence. To facilitate their endeavours, NSIC launched Testing Labs Scheme by setting up various testing laboratories accredited by NABL / BIS, providing material and product testing, energy audit, facilities, thus, enhancing their overall competitiveness. These centres are equipped with the State of the Art indigenous equipment for carrying out performance and acceptance tests in the fields of chemical, material, electrical, motor & pumps, metallurgical etc.

Performance & Credit Rating Scheme

This scheme seeks to establish independent, trusted third-party opinion on the capabilities and credit-worthiness of MSEs, makes credit available at attractive interest rates and will ensure better productivity. Under this scheme (as per the turnover of the MSE) a percent of Rating Agency charges are reimbursed by the Ministry of SSI.

Marketing Development Assistance

Ministry of tourism through this particular aims to project India as a multidimensional tourist destination by inviting the foreign media (stakeholders) to promote the Brand 'India'. This scheme also provides financial assistance to local tourist operators/agencies/travel startups/hoteliers to promote various activities in NE states and Jammu and Kashmir. The scheme also caters to the promotion of unexploited and less visited places. 

Marketing Development Assistance (Mda) Scheme For Medical Tourism/Wellness Tourism Service Providers

This scheme can be leveraged by small enterprises that are venturing into Medical Tourism and Wellness Industry. Financial support under the MDA Scheme will be provided to approved medical tourism service providers, i.e. Representatives of Hospitals accredited by the Joint Commission for International Accredited Hospitals (JCI) and National Accreditation Board of Hospitals (NABH) and Medical Tourism facilitators (Travel Agents/Tour Operators approved by Ministry of Tourism, Government of India and engaged in Medical Tourism.

Self Employment and Talent Utilisation (SETU)

SETU will be a Techno-Financial, Incubation and Facilitation Programme to support all aspects of start-up businesses, and other self-employment activities, particularly in technology-driven areas. It aims to create around 100,000 jobs through start-ups.

Micro Exporters Policy (MEP)

The Small Exporter's Policy is the Standard Policy, incorporating certain improvements in terms of cover, to encourage small exporters to obtain and operate freely without different types of risks like Political and Commercial. It is issued to exporters whose anticipated export turnover for one year does not exceed INR 1 crores.

Export Development & Promotion of Spices

The programmes under the scheme ‘Export Development and Promotion’ aim to support exporters to adopt high tech processing technologies or to upgrade the existing level of technologies for high-end value addition and develop capabilities to meet the changing food safety standards in the importing countries. The scheme also caters to promoting the Indian species exporter by assisting them in the promotion of Indian Goods in International Trade Fairs, Seminars, etc. by reimbursing their expenditure on the same.

ISO 9000/ISO 14001 Certification Reimbursement

To enhance the competitive strength of SMEs, the scheme provides financial incentives to those SMEs/ancillary undertakings that have acquired ISO 9000/ISO 14001/HACCP certification through reimbursement of the expenditure incurred. The scheme is enlarged to include reimbursement of expenses in the acquisition of ISO 14001 certification.

Marketing Support/Assistance to MSMEs (Bar Code)

Under this scheme, the Ministry conducts seminars and reimburses registration fees for barcoding to encourage MSEs to use bar codes.

The basic objective of this scheme is to enhance the Marketing competitiveness of Micro & Small Enterprises (MSEs) by way of:

• Providing 75% off one-time registration fee and annual recurring fee (for the first three years) paid by MSEs to GS1 India (GS1 India, an autonomous body under the Ministry of Commerce & Industry, Government of India is a solution provider for registration for use of Bar Coding. To become a subscriber of GS1 India, all one has to do is fill up the subscription enquiry or registration form and make the necessary payments as a registration fee. Details about registration with GS1 India for use of Bar Coding are available on their website www.gs1india.org).

• Popularising the adoption of bar codes on large scale amongst MSEs,

• Motivating and encouraging MSEs for use of bar codes through conducting seminars on Bar Code, etc. 

Lean Manufacturing Competitiveness for MSMEs

Under the Scheme, MSMEs will be assisted in reducing their manufacturing costs, through proper personnel management, better space utilization, scientific inventory management, improved processed flows, reduced engineering time and so on. LMCS (Lean Manufacturing Competitiveness Scheme) also brings improvement in the quality of products and lowers costs, which are essential for competing in national and international markets. The larger enterprises in India have been adopting LMCS to remain competitive, but MSMEs have generally stayed away from such Programmes as they are not fully aware of the benefits. Besides these issues, experienced and effective Lean Manufacturing Counsellors or Consultants are not easily available and are expensive to engage hence most MSMEs are unable to afford LMCS. 

Financial Support to MSMEs in ZED Certification Scheme

The scheme envisages the promotion of Zero Defect and Zero Effect (ZED) manufacturing amongst MSMEs and ZED Assessment for their certification to:

• Develop an Ecosystem for Zero Defect Manufacturing in MSMEs.

• Promote adaptation of Quality tools/systems and Energy Efficient manufacturing.

• Enable MSMEs for manufacturing quality products.

• Encourage MSMEs to constantly upgrade their quality standards in products and processes.

• Drive manufacturing with the adoption of Zero Defect production processes and without impacting the environment.

• Support the ‘Make in India’ campaign.

• Develop professionals in the area of ZED manufacturing and certification.

Entrepreneurial and Managerial Development of SMEs through Incubators

There are multiple objectives of the scheme, some of which are:

• To promote emerging technological and knowledge-based innovative ventures that seek the nurturing of ideas from professionals.

• To promote and support untapped creativity of individual innovators and also to assist individual innovators to become technology-based entrepreneurs.

• To promote networking and forging of linkages with other constituents of the innovation chain for commercialization of their developments.

Amended Technology Upgradation Fund Scheme (ATUFS)

With the aims of 'Make in India' and 'Zero Defect and Zero Effect' in manufacturing, the government provides credit linked capital investment subsidies. This scheme would facilitate augmenting of investment, productivity, quality, employment, exports and import substitution in the textile industry. It will also indirectly promote investment in textile machinery manufacturing.

Composite Loan

The Scheme envisages sanction and disbursement of working capital and term loans together from a single agency. The limit for composite loans has been enhanced to Rs. 25 lakhs in the Comprehensive Policy Package.

The Scheme is operated both by banks and financial institutions. State Financial Corporations under Single Window Scheme provide working capital loans along with term loans to new tiny and small scale sector units to overcome the initial difficulties and delays faced by them to start production expeditiously.

Venture Capital by SIDBI Venture Capital Ltd. (SVLC)

The objective of the scheme is to work for the best returns by investing in deserving entrepreneurial teams using a combination of capital, strategic mentoring, skills and our vast network of relationships. Under this scheme, Investment is made by way of equity and equity-type instruments. Financial structuring is done on a case to case basis keeping in view factors like risk perception, growth potential, equity base and market condition. SVCL also co-invests with other VC funds. SVCL does not take a majority stake in a company.

Tex Fund

The primary objective of the fund is to contribute to the development of the power loom and related textile sectors. SIDBI Venture Capital Fund Ltd., (SVCL) invests on behalf of the Ministry of Textiles in the form of equity in MSMEs to kick start an enterprise/ expansion.

The Samridhi Fund

The Samridhi Fund is an approx. ?430 crore social venture capital fund. SIDBI has envisaged the creation of the Samridhi Fund to provide capital to social enterprises which can deliver both financial and social returns, in Bihar, Uttar Pradesh, Madhya Pradesh, Odisha, Chattisgarh, Jharkhand, Rajasthan and West Bengal.

Export Promotion Capital Goods (EPCG) scheme

The Zero duty EPCG Scheme is available to exporters of electronic products. It allows the import of capital goods for pre-production, production and post-production (including CKD/SKD thereof as well as computer software systems) at zero% customs duty, subject to an export obligation equivalent to 6 times of duty saved on capital goods imported under EPCG scheme, to be fulfilled in 6 years reckoned from Authorization issue-date.

Central Sector Scheme for Promotion of International Co-operation in AYUSH

To promote and strengthen awareness and interest in AYUSH Systems of Medicine and to facilitate International promotion, development and recognition of Ayurveda, Yoga, Naturopathy, Unani, Siddha, Sowa-Rigpa and Homoeopathy. There are 6 components of the scheme:

• International exchange of experts & officers

• The incentive to drug manufacturers, entrepreneurs, AYUSH institutions etc. for the international propagation of AYUSH by participating in international exhibitions, trade fairs, roadshows etc. and registration of AYUSH products (Market Authorisation) at regulatory bodies of different countries such as USFDA/EMEA/UK-MHRA/ NHPD/ TGA etc for exports.

• Support for international market development and AYUSH promotion-related activities.

• Translation and publication of AYUSH literature/books in foreign languages.

• Establishment of AYUSH Information Cells and strengthening of Health Centre/institutions in foreign countries with AYUSH equipment, etc.

• International Fellowship/ scholarship Programme for foreign nationals for undertaking AYUSH courses in premier institutions in India.

Credit Guarantee Fund Trust for Micro and Small Enterprises (CGTMSE)

The Credit Guarantee Fund Scheme for Micro and Small Enterprises (CGS) was launched by the Government of India (GoI) to make available collateral-free credit to the micro and small enterprise sector. Both the existing and the new enterprises are eligible to be covered under the scheme. The Ministry of Micro, Small and Medium Enterprises, GoI and Small Industries Development Bank of India (SIDBI) established a Trust named Credit Guarantee Fund Trust for Micro and Small Enterprises (CGTMSE) to implement the Credit Guarantee Fund Scheme for Micro and Small Enterprises.

Interest Subsidy Eligibility Certificate (ISEC) for Khadi Institutions

The Interest Subsidy Eligibility Certificate (ISEC) Scheme is an important mechanism for funding khadi programmes undertaken by khadi institutions. It was introduced to mobilise funds from banking institutions for filling the gap between the actual fund requirements and the availability of funds from budgetary sources.

The Design Clinic Scheme for MSMEs

Design Clinic Scheme for Design Expertise to MSME manufacturing sector. The main objectives of the scheme are:

• To create a sustainable design ecosystem for the MSME sector through continuous learning and skill development

• Bring the industrial design fraternity closer to the MSME Sector

• Develop an institutional base for the industry’s design requirements;

• Increase the awareness of the value of design and establish design learning in the MSME

• Increase the competitiveness of local products and services through design.

Science and Technology (S&T) for Coir Institutions

Technology Transfer, Incubation, Testing, Training Entrepreneurs and Service Facilities for the coir MSMEs through the extension of the outcomes of research (done at research institutes under the scheme) at the laboratory level for application at the field level and extension of testing and service facility are the objectives of the scheme. The Research and Development activities of the Board are carried out through the twin research institutes: the Central Coir Research Institute, Kalavoor and Central Institute of Coir Technology, Bangalore which uses the fund allotted to this scheme and then further aids the entities working in the coir industry. The scheme also aims at establishing technology incubation centres in one or many places for training the entrepreneurs in the new technologies developed and transferred.

Agro Processing Cluster Scheme

The scheme aims to the development of modern infrastructure and common facilities to encourage groups of entrepreneurs to set up food processing units based on a cluster approach by linking groups of producers/ farmers to processors and markets through a well-equipped supply chain with modern infrastructure. The units are set up simultaneous along with the creation of a common infrastructure. Agro-processing clusters set up by Project Execution Agency (PEA)/ Organisation such as Govt./ PSUs/ Joint Ventures/ NGOs/ Cooperatives/ SHGs/ FPOs/ Private Sector/ individuals etc. and are eligible for financial assistance subject to terms and conditions under the scheme guidelines.

Research & Development In the Processed Food Sector

Under the scheme, the Ministry of Food Processing Industries has been extending financial assistance to undertake demand-driven R&D work for the benefits food processing industry in terms of product and process development, efficient technologies, improved packaging, value addition etc. with commercial value along with standardization of various factors viz. additives, colouring agents, preservatives, pesticide residues, chemical contaminants, microbiological contaminants and naturally occurring toxic substances within permissible limits.

Creation / Expansion of Food Processing & Preservation Capacities

The main objective of the scheme is the creation of processing and preservation capacities and modernisation/ expansion of existing food processing units to increase the level of processing, value addition leading to a reduction of wastage. The processing activities undertaken by the individual units cover a wide range of post-harvest processes resulting in value addition and/or enhancing shelf life with specialized facilities required for the preservation of perishables. While the expansion of processing capacity is necessary to increase the level of processing and reduce wastage, the induction of modern technology is intended to make a clear difference in terms of process efficiencies as well as improve the quality of the end product. The setting up of new units and modernization/ expansion of existing units are covered under the scheme.

The Women Entrepreneurship Platform (WEP)

NITI Aayog has launched a Women Entrepreneurship Platform (WEP) for providing an ecosystem for budding & existing women entrepreneurs across the country. SIDBI has partnered with NITI Aayog to assist in this initiative.

As an enabling platform, WEP is built on three pillars- Iccha Shakti, Gyaan Shakti & Karma Shakti.

• Iccha Shakti represents motivating aspiring entrepreneurs to start their business

• Gyaan Shakti represents providing knowledge and ecosystem support to women entrepreneurs to help them foster entrepreneurship

• Karma Shakti represents providing hands-on support to entrepreneurs in setting up and scaling up businesses

National Urban Livelihoods Mission

NULM means National Urban Livelihoods Mission. To reduce poverty and vulnerability of the urban poor households by enabling them to access gainful self-employment and skilled wage employment opportunities, resulting in an appreciable improvement in their livelihoods on a sustainable basis, through building strong grassroots level institutions of the poor and ultimately linking them to the entrepreneurial and the startup revolution of India. The mission would aim at providing shelter equipped with essential services to the urban homeless in a phased manner. In addition, the Mission would also address livelihood concerns of the urban street vendors by facilitating access to suitable spaces, institutional credit, social security and skills to the urban street vendors for accessing emerging market opportunities.

Hardware Technology Park Scheme

Units undertaking to export their entire production of goods and services may be set up under the Electronic Hardware Technology Park (E.H.T.P.) Scheme. Such units may be engaged in manufacture and services.

Commensurate with the policy to give a special thrust to the export of electronic hardware, such units would be encouraged to be set up under the aforementioned export-oriented scheme.

Duty Exemption and Remission Scheme

Duty exemption schemes enable duty-free import of inputs required for export production. Duty exemption schemes consist of:

• Advance Authorisation scheme

• Duty-Free Import Authorisation (DFIA) scheme

A Duty Remission Scheme enables post export replenishment/remission of duty on inputs used in the export product. Duty Remission Schemes consist of :

• Duty Entitlement Passbook (DEPB) Scheme

• Duty Drawback (DBK) Scheme

Support for training and employment programmes for women

STEP Scheme aims to provide skills that give employability to women and to provide competencies and skills that enable women to become self-employed/entrepreneurs. The Scheme is intended to benefit women who are in the age group of 16 years and above across the country.

Comprehensive Handloom Cluster Development Scheme (CHCDS)

The objective is to develop Mega Handloom Clusters that are located in clearly identifiable geographical locations that specialize in specific products, with close linkages and inter dependents amongst the key players in the cluster by improving the infrastructure facilities, with better storage facilities, technology up-gradation in pre-loom/on-loom/post-loom operations, weaving shed, skill up-gradation, design inputs, health facilities etc. which would eventually be able to meet the discerning and changing market demands both at domestic and at the international level and raise living standards of the millions of weavers engaged in the handloom industry.

Trade-Related Entrepreneurship Assistance and Development (TREAD) Scheme for Women

This scheme envisages economic empowerment of women by providing credit (through NGOs), training, development and counselling extension activities related to trades, products, services etc.

Cent Kalyani Scheme

This scheme envisages the empowerment of women to start a new project or expand or modernise the existing unit. This scheme assists in the form of capital expenditure (Plant/Machinery) and also meeting day to day expenditure (working capital). This scheme is provided by the Central Bank of India.