Startup India

Expert Guidance for a Thriving Future

Startup India is a flagship initiative by the Government of India, launched to empower startups and foster innovation across the country. The initiative aims to build a strong ecosystem that nurtures entrepreneurship, drives sustainable economic growth, and generates employment opportunities. It offers a range of benefits including easier compliance, tax exemptions, funding support, fast-track patent application, and more. Startup India also connects entrepreneurs with government resources, incubators, and industry experts, making it easier for budding businesses to scale and succeed. As a recognized partner in this movement, we help startups navigate the processes involved in registration, compliance, funding, and growth planning—enabling them to focus on innovation while we handle the groundwork.

Tax Exemption under Startup India

Tax Exemption under Startup India

Under the Startup India initiative, eligible startups can avail significant tax benefits to boost their financial stability in the early stages. Recognized startups are eligible for a 100% income tax exemption for 3 consecutive financial years out of the first 10 years since incorporation, under Section 80-IAC of the Income Tax Act. Additionally, they may also get exemption from Angel Tax under Section 56(2)(viib), making it easier to raise funds without additional tax burdens. These exemptions aim to reduce the financial strain on startups and promote innovation, investment, and job creation in India.

Our Services

  • Eligibility Assessment
    We evaluate your startup’s compliance with DPIIT and Income Tax criteria for availing tax benefits.
  • DPIIT Recognition Assistance
    End-to-end support in obtaining Startup India recognition from the Department for Promotion of Industry and Internal Trade.
  • Section 80-IAC Exemption Filing
    Expert preparation and filing of documents for claiming 3-year income tax exemption under Section 80-IAC.
  • Angel Tax Exemption (Section 56)
    Guidance and documentation support to secure exemption from Angel Tax during fundraising.
  • Legal & Compliance Advisory
    Ongoing support to ensure your business remains compliant with conditions required to maintain exemptions.
  • CA Certification & Financial Reports
    Preparation of financial statements and coordination with Chartered Accountants for certification requirements.

Self-Certification for Compliance

One of the key benefits of the Startup India initiative is the provision for self-certification of compliance under six labour laws and three environmental laws. This reduces the regulatory burden on startups and allows them to focus more on growth and innovation rather than paperwork. Startups recognized by DPIIT can self-certify compliance for a period of up to 5 years from the date of incorporation. This exemption helps avoid inspections and simplifies the process of adhering to routine compliance requirements, making it easier to operate in a business-friendly environment.

Our Services

  • DPIIT Recognition Assistance
    Full support in obtaining DPIIT recognition, a prerequisite for availing self-certification benefits.
  • Eligibility & Compliance Advisory
    Expert analysis to confirm if your startup qualifies for self-certification under applicable laws.
  • Labor Law Compliance Guidance
    Assistance in understanding and managing self-certification under key labor laws like EPF, ESI, and Gratuity.
  • Environmental Law Support
    Advisory on compliance with environmental regulations and guidance for industries requiring clearance.
  • Documentation & Filing
    Preparation of necessary documents and records for audit readiness and legal safety.
  • Compliance Monitoring
    Periodic review and updates to ensure ongoing compliance throughout the self-certification period.

Intellectual Property Rights (IPR) support

Under the Startup India initiative, Intellectual Property Rights (IPR) support is a key pillar to empower startups in protecting and commercializing their innovations. The program offers startups access to fast-track examination of patent applications, up to 80% rebate on patent filing fees, and guidance through a network of facilitators for filing patents, trademarks, and designs at subsidized costs. These measures aim to reduce the financial burden on startups and help them gain a competitive edge through secured intellectual assets.

Our Services

  • Assistance in Identifying and Protecting Patentable Innovations
    We help startups assess their ideas and innovations for patentability and guide them in choosing the right type of IP protection. This ensures early-stage innovations are safeguarded effectively.
  • End-to-End Support for Patent, Trademark, and Design Registrations
    From documentation to filing and follow-ups, we manage the complete process of registering patents, trademarks, and industrial designs across relevant jurisdictions.
  • Access to Government-Empanelled IPR Facilitators
    We connect startups with certified facilitators under the Startup India scheme who provide legal and technical assistance at subsidized rates, ensuring quality and compliance.
  • Drafting and Filing of IPR Applications with Regulatory Authorities
    Our experts prepare high-quality IP applications, ensuring all technical, legal, and procedural requirements are met for smooth approval from the IP offices.
  • Strategic IP Portfolio Management and Commercialization Advice
    We assist in building and managing a strong IP portfolio aligned with your business goals and provide strategies to monetize your intellectual property.
  • Support in Availing Startup India IPR Benefits and Subsidies
    We guide startups through the eligibility criteria, documentation, and application process to avail rebates, fast-track processing, and other IPR-related incentives under Startup India.

Funding Opportunities

Under the Startup India initiative, the government facilitates funding opportunities to nurture innovation and reduce financial barriers for early-stage startups. Key programs include the Fund of Funds for Startups (FFS), Startup India Seed Fund Scheme (SISFS), and access to various grants, incubators, and venture capital networks. These initiatives aim to provide startups with crucial capital at different stages of growth—be it ideation, validation, or scaling—while encouraging private sector participation and investor confidence.

Our Services

  • Eligibility Assessment and Scheme Selection
    We evaluate your startup’s profile to determine eligibility for government schemes, grants, and funding programs, ensuring alignment with the right opportunities.
  • Preparation of Investor-Ready Pitch Decks and Business Plans
    Our team helps craft compelling pitch decks, financial models, and business plans tailored to the expectations of government panels and private investors.
  • Application Support for SISFS, FFS, and Other Government Schemes
    We guide you through the entire application process for schemes like the Seed Fund and Fund of Funds, from documentation to submission and follow-ups.
  • Connecting with Registered Incubators and Accelerators
    We help startups get incubated under recognized institutions, which improves funding access and eligibility for seed grants and mentoring support.
  • Investor Outreach and Funding Matchmaking
    We connect startups with angel investors, venture capital firms, and funding platforms aligned with their industry, stage, and vision.
  • Post-Funding Compliance and Utilization Advisory
    Our experts assist in managing post-funding compliance, reporting, and optimal fund utilization to ensure transparency and regulatory alignment.

Easier Public Procurement

Under the Startup India initiative, the government has simplified public procurement norms to help startups access government contracts and boost market opportunities. Startups can register on the Government e-Marketplace (GeM) and benefit from exemptions such as no prior experience or turnover requirements, relaxed EMD norms, and easier bid participation. This creates a level playing field and allows startups to become trusted vendors for government departments and PSUs.

Our Services

  • Guidance on GeM and Public Procurement Registration
    We assist startups in registering on platforms like GeM and understanding procurement procedures, making them eligible to bid for government contracts.
  • Documentation Support and Bid Preparation
    Our team helps in preparing technical documents, price bids, and compliance paperwork to meet specific tender requirements with ease.
  • Exemption Advisory on EMD, Turnover, and Experience Criteria
    We help startups leverage benefits such as exemption from Earnest Money Deposit (EMD) and prior turnover or experience requirements under Startup India norms.
  • Tender Identification and Opportunity Mapping
    We actively monitor relevant government tenders and identify the best-suited opportunities based on your products, services, and sector.
  • Training on Government e-Marketplace (GeM) Operations
    We offer hands-on support and training to navigate and manage the GeM portal, including product listing, cataloguing, pricing, and order processing.
  • Post-Bid Support and Compliance Assistance
    Our experts provide ongoing support for managing awarded contracts, invoicing, statutory compliances, and timely delivery to ensure long-term success in public procurement.

Fast-Track Exit Mechanism

Under the Startup India initiative, the government has introduced a Fast-Track Exit Mechanism to simplify and expedite the closure process for startups. Recognized startups can exit within 90 days of applying for winding up, under the Insolvency and Bankruptcy Code (IBC). This reduces the financial and regulatory burden on failed ventures, allowing entrepreneurs to innovate without fear of being trapped in a lengthy closure process.

Our Services

  • Eligibility Assessment for Fast-Track Exit
    We evaluate your startup’s structure, recognition status, and compliance records to confirm eligibility for the fast-track closure route.
  • Preparation and Filing of Closure Documents
    Our experts handle drafting and submission of all necessary documents, including board resolutions, affidavit declarations, and application forms.
  • Liaison with Insolvency Professionals and Legal Advisors
    We coordinate with registered insolvency professionals and legal experts to ensure smooth handling of voluntary liquidation under IBC norms.
  • Regulatory Compliance and ROC Filings
    We manage filings with the Registrar of Companies (ROC), including Form STK-2 and other necessary compliance submissions to initiate the closure.
  • Support in Settling Outstanding Liabilities and Dues
    We assist in identifying and settling any pending statutory dues or liabilities to enable a clean and conflict-free exit.
  • End-to-End Advisory Until Final Strike-Off
    From the initial application to the final confirmation of closure, we provide complete handholding to ensure a legally compliant and stress-free exit.

FDI Compliance

Under the Startup India initiative, startups are allowed to receive Foreign Direct Investment (FDI) under the automatic route in most sectors, without prior approval from the government. This opens up greater access to global capital and strategic partnerships. However, startups must comply with FEMA regulations, RBI reporting requirements, valuation norms, and sector-specific conditions. Ensuring FDI compliance is critical to avoid penalties and maintain investor confidence.

Our Services

  • Advisory on FDI Eligibility and Sectoral Caps
    We help startups assess their business model against FDI policies, identifying applicable sectoral caps and conditions under the automatic or approval route.
  • Assistance in Share Valuation and Pricing Norms
    Our experts ensure your startup follows RBI’s valuation guidelines, using recognized methods to determine fair pricing for foreign investments.
  • Drafting of Shareholder Agreements and Investment Instruments
    We prepare and review critical documents such as Share Subscription Agreements (SSA), Shareholder Agreements (SHA), and Convertible Notes.
  • RBI Reporting and FEMA Compliance Filings
    We handle filings such as FC-GPR, FLA, and other mandatory reports to the RBI, ensuring full compliance under FEMA and Startup India guidelines.
  • Coordination with Authorized Dealers and Legal Advisors
    We liaise with banks (AD Category-I) and legal professionals to ensure smooth fund remittance and documentation.
  • Post-Investment Compliance and Record Maintenance
    We support ongoing compliance including updating statutory registers, Board resolutions, and reporting of any changes in shareholding to regulators.