Government Startup Schemes India 2025
intern shekunj
From GENESIS to STPI: Unlocking Growth for Indian Startups
India’s startup ecosystem is rapidly evolving, thanks to structured support from the government. Under the Ministry of Electronics and Information Technology (MeitY), several forward-thinking schemes aim to help entrepreneurs innovate, expand, and thrive—especially in emerging sectors and non-metro regions.
1. STP & EHTP Schemes
Sectors: Software, Electronics, IT services
Designed to support export-oriented startups, the Software Technology Parks (STP) and Electronic Hardware Technology Parks (EHTP) schemes offer regulatory and fiscal advantages to tech-driven ventures.
Key Benefits:
Import duty exemption for raw materials and equipment
Streamlined customs processes
Re-export provisions
100% foreign investment repatriation
Use of refurbished equipment allowed
2. Centres of Excellence (CoEs)
Areas Covered: Deep Tech, AI/ML, FinTech, MedTech, IoT
These 26 CoEs, run by STPI and partners, serve as innovation hubs where startups can access top-tier infrastructure, expert mentorship, and early-stage funding opportunities.
Support Provided:
Lab access and product development facilities
Technical guidance and industry mentorship
Training programs and investor connections
3. GENESIS (Gen-Next Support for Innovative Startups)
Focus: Tier-II and Tier-III Entrepreneurs
Aimed at promoting inclusive innovation, GENESIS supports founders from smaller cities through funding and incubation partnerships.
Eligibility Criteria:
Based in Tier-II or Tier-III cities
Linked to academic or R&D institutions
Clear innovation or social impact potential
Funding Pool: ₹490 crore (for 2022–2027)
4. Duty-Free Import Scheme
Purpose: Support cost-effective export manufacturing
Startups engaged in exports can import necessary raw materials duty-free under this program, helping reduce production costs.
Highlights:
Duty-free imports for eligible goods
Replenishment-based input schemes
Tax remission opportunities linked to exports
5. STPI Startup Program
For: Software exports, digital services, gaming, and IT-enabled products
Backed by STPI, this program is tailored for startups generating foreign exchange and scaling globally.
Requirements:
Registered Indian firm or LLP
At least 50% revenue from exports
Positive net foreign exchange earnings
Incentives:
Full foreign ownership allowed
Tax incentives and profit repatriation
Streamlined import/export procedures
Final Note
Whether you're building from a Tier-III city or exporting tech products globally, India’s government-backed startup schemes offer practical tools to accelerate your vision. These initiatives are not just funding platforms—they are ecosystems for innovation, mentorship, and scale.
Subscribe to my newsletter
Read articles from intern shekunj directly inside your inbox. Subscribe to the newsletter, and don't miss out.
Written by