Launched in 2016, the Startup India initiative aims to position India as an innovation hub. Startups recognized by the DPIIT enjoy tax benefits, easier compliance, and access to government funding, promoting job creation and economic growth.

Eligible startups (less than 10 years old with turnover under ₹100 crore) receive cost savings on IP filings, faster patent processing, and exemption from prior experience in tenders. Support from schemes like the Fund of Funds and Seed Fund Scheme, along with mentoring and networking, accelerates growth. Sperso Filings simplifies the process, helping you register and scale with ease.

What is Startup India Scheme?

Launched on January 16, 2016, the Startup India Scheme is a key initiative by the Government of India to promote innovation and entrepreneurship. Its goal is to turn India into a nation of job creators rather than job seekers. Managed by the DPIIT, the scheme provides financial support, mentorship, and startup-friendly regulations to foster growth and reduce entry barriers.

Objectives of the Startup India Scheme

The Startup India initiative aims to boost innovation, product development, and employment in India. Its objectives are structured around three core pillars:

• Funding & Incentives – Offering financial aid and tax benefits to emerging startups.
• Industry-Academia Collaboration – Supporting incubation and partnerships with academic institutions.
• Simplification & Guidance – Easing compliance and providing expert handholding to help startups grow efficiently.

Startup India Registration – Eligibility Criteria

• Startup Age: Must be within 10 years from the date of incorporation.
• Turnover Cap: Annual turnover should not exceed ₹100 crore in any financial year.
• Innovation: The business must offer innovative solutions or add significant value to existing products/services.
• Scalability: Should show potential for rapid growth, wealth creation, and employment generation.
• Sector Eligibility: Open to all sectors, provided the entity meets the core eligibility standards.

Startup India Registration – Key Benefits

1. Tax Exemptions: Startups enjoy a 100% income tax exemption for any 3 years within their first 10 years. Benefits also include reduced capital gains tax, helping reinvest earnings into growth.
2. Simplified Compliance: Startups can self-certify under select labour and environmental laws, reducing regulatory overhead and legal expenses, letting founders focus on business expansion.
3. Funding Access: Eligible startups can avail schemes like the Fund of Funds, Seed Fund Scheme, and Credit Guarantee Scheme. They also gain exposure through Startup India Investor Connect.
4. IP Protection: Startups get fast-tracked processing and discounts on patent, trademark, and design registration fees—essential for protecting innovation and brand identity.
5. Additional Government Support: Mentorship, networking, and collaboration opportunities help startups connect with experts and access government schemes, strengthening their business foundations.

Documents Required for Startup India Registration

• Company Incorporation Certificate – Proof of registration with MCA or relevant authority.
• Funding Proof (if applicable) – Documents supporting any external financial investment.
• Authorisation Letter – Issued by the startup’s authorized signatory.
• Concept Validation – Business Plan, Pitch Deck, or video explaining your product/service.
• IP Details – Copies of patents, trademarks, or copyright filings, if any.
• Awards/Recognitions – Certificates or accolades received by the startup.
• PAN Card – PAN of the business or its founder(s).

Startup India Registration Fees

Startup India registration typically involves a base fee of ₹3,500 for DPIIT recognition. This one-time certification helps startups access various government benefits. Fee structures may change, so applicants should confirm rates on the official Startup India portal.

Additional Charges:

• Consultancy Fees: Vary based on services hired for application and documentation.
• Legal Charges: Incurred during drafting agreements or filings.
• Documentation Costs: For notarising or acquiring documents like incorporation or IP filings.

Government Waivers:

• 80% rebate on patent filing fees
• 50% rebate on trademark registration charges

Startup India Registration Process

1. Step 1: Company Registration – Incorporate your business as a Private Limited Company, LLP, or Partnership Firm through the Ministry of Corporate Affairs (MCA) or the Registrar of Firms.
2. Step 2: Register on the Startup India Portal – Visit startupindia.gov.in, create an account, and complete your startup profile with incorporation details, address, and business sector.
3. Step 3: Apply for DPIIT Certification – Apply for DPIIT recognition by submitting your incorporation certificate, business plan, and financials. Once approved, you’ll receive a unique recognition number.
4. Step 4: Final Checklist and Submission – Ensure all forms are correctly filled and documents uploaded. Double-check contact information and application details to speed up approval.

How Sperso Filings Can Help: Sperso Filings streamlines your Startup India registration with a fast, online process. With just three basic documents, we deliver your DPIIT certificate within 3–5 working days, helping you focus on scaling your business.

Steps to Get DPIIT Recognition

What is DPIIT Recognition and Why It Matters?
DPIIT recognition officially validates your startup and makes you eligible for benefits under the Startup India Scheme such as tax exemptions, funding access, and compliance relaxations.

DPIIT Recognition Process:

• Register on startupindia.gov.in
• Fill in the DPIIT application with business info and upload required documents
• Confirm eligibility through self-declaration
• Receive DPIIT recognition number upon approval

Benefits of DPIIT Recognition

• Tax Exemptions (Section 80IAC): Income tax exemption for 3 years
  Conditions: DPIIT-recognized, Private Limited/LLP, Incorporated post-1 April 2016
• Tax Relief on Investments (Section 56): Exemption up to ₹25 crore from angel tax on share premium
  Avoid investments in non-business assets
• Fast-Track IPR Processing: 80% rebate on patent fees
  Government covers facilitator charges for trademarks, designs, and patents
• Simplified Winding Up: Closure within 90 days under IBC for eligible startups
• Easier Government Procurement: Bid for tenders without prior turnover or experience
  No EMD required if technical criteria are met

Startup India Registration Certificate

This certificate confirms your DPIIT recognition and eligibility for Startup India benefits. It enhances credibility and access to government schemes.

Steps to Obtain the Certificate:

• Submit complete DPIIT application with correct documents
• DPIIT reviews the application
• Upon approval, download the certificate from the portal

Validity and Renewal:
Valid for 10 years if eligibility is maintained. No renewal required unless there's a structural change.

Post-Registration Compliance

After registration, maintaining compliance is crucial. Here are key steps:

Initial Actions:

• Verify accuracy of registration data
• Avail tax and funding benefits
• File for IPR with government rebates
• Create a compliance checklist

Maintain Compliance:

• File annual returns, ITR, and GST filings
• Report any major business changes to DPIIT
• Renew applicable registrations (e.g. IP filings)
• Update Startup India portal annually

How Sperso Filings Supports You:
Beyond registration, Sperso Filings helps with ongoing compliance—filings, IPR protection, and alerts on due dates—ensuring your startup remains eligible for benefits and fully compliant.