Startup India Registration
The Startup India Registration initiative, launched in 2016 by the Government of India, aims to transform India into an innovation hub. Recognized by the Department for Promotion of Industry and Internal Trade (DPIIT), startups enjoy benefits like tax exemptions, funding, and simplified compliance, fostering innovation, job creation, and economic growth.
Eligible startups (under 10 years old with turnover below ₹100 crore) gain cost reductions on IP filings, fast-tracked patent processing, and tender access without prior experience. Financial support from schemes like the Fund of Funds and Seed Fund Scheme, along with mentorship and networking opportunities, boosts growth. AuditNeeds simplifies the registration process, enabling startups to scale efficiently.
What is Startup India Scheme ?
The Startup India Scheme is a flagship initiative launched on January 16, 2016, by the Government of India to transform the country into a hub for innovation and entrepreneurship. The program’s mission is to shift India from a nation of job seekers to one of job creators. Managed by the Startup India Team under the Department for Promotion of Industry and Internal Trade (DPIIT), it offers startups financial support, mentorship, and favourable regulations to eliminate barriers and accelerate growth.
Objectives of the Startup India Scheme
The primary goal of Startup India is to enhance product development, innovation, and job opportunities in India.The three main pillars of Startup India include:
1. Funding Support and Incentives: Providing financial assistance and incentives to startups across the country
2. Industry-Academia Partnership and Incubation: Fostering collaboration between industry and academic institutions, and supporting incubation programs
3. Simplification and Handholding: Streamlining processes and offering guidance to help startups navigate challenges and scale effectively.
Startup India Registration Eligibility
The Startup India eligibility criteria cover three broad areas: turnover, startup age, innovation requirements, scalability potential, and sector-specific conditions. Here is a detailed outline for the same:
Age Limit
The startup should not exceed ten years from the date of incorporation or registration
Turnover Limit
The annual turnover of the startup during any of the financial years since incorporation shall not have exceeded ₹100 crore
Innovation Criteria
The business should contribute to innovation and add value to existing products or services, distinguishing it from other companies in the market
Scalability Potential
Startups must demonstrate high scalability, with the potential to generate substantial wealth and create employment opportunities
Sector-Specific Requirements
Any sector or industry based startup can avail this facility under the Startup India Scheme except those who qualify for primary eligibility criteria.
Startup India Registration Benefits
Startup India registration promotes innovation and development by offering benefits like tax exemptions, funding access, simplified compliance, and intellectual property protection. These benefits reduce operational challenges, provide financial support, and foster growth, creating an environment for startups to thrive and contribute to India’s economy. Here are five Startup India benefits and incentives:
- Tax Exemptions under startup India scheme
Startups registered under the Startup India Scheme can access significant tax relief, including a 100% income tax exemption for three years within their first ten years of incorporation. This reduces the tax burden in the early stages. Additionally, startups can benefit from reduced capital gains tax rates and financial incentives, enabling reinvestment in growth and innovation. - Simplified Compliance and Self-Certification
The Startup India Scheme simplifies regulatory processes to reduce the compliance burden on startups. It allows them to self-certify against certain labour and environmental laws, saving time and reducing legal costs. This streamlined compliance process helps startups focus on core operations and business development. - Funding Support
Registered startups can access a variety of government funding options, grants, and venture capital to support their growth. Through initiatives like the Fund of Funds, the Startup India Seed Fund Scheme, and the Credit Guarantee Scheme for Startups, startups can secure financial resources for scaling operations, R&D, and innovation.
Additionally, the Startup India Investor Connect platform links startups with potential investors, while the Funding Guide and various Central Government Schemes and Policies provide valuable support to help startups navigate and access these funding opportunities. - Protection of Intellectual Property Rights
The Startup India Scheme offers intellectual property (IP) protection benefits that cover patents, trademarks, and design registrations. Startups receive support in fast-tracking their IP applications and can access discounts on filing fees, which helps secure their innovations and establish brand value, safeguarding their competitive advantage. - Additional Benefits and Support from the Government
The scheme offers additional support through mentorship, networking events, and partnerships, linking startups with industry experts and collaborators. This support enhances the startup ecosystem by fostering collaboration, offering guidance, and providing access to valuable resources and strategic insights.
Documents Needed for Startup India Registration
Applicants must submit specific documents to prove their startup’s authenticity, business plan, and financial standing. Only verified startups can benefit from the scheme. Here is a list of documents required for Startup India Registration:
- Company incorporation or registration certificate
- Funding proof – If applicable, evidence of any financial backing received
- Authorisation Letter from the company’s authorised representative
- Concept proof like Business Plan, Pitch Deck or a video demonstrating the startup’s idea
- Patent and trademark details
- List of awards or certificates for your startup
- PAN (Permanent Account Number)
Startup India Registration Fees
Registration under the Startup India Scheme generally requires a base fee with possible extra additions. The government provides some waivers and subsidies in order to make it cost-effective for eligible startups, thus fastening the process. Here is a detailed outline:
Base Fee – ₹3,500
Applicants are required to pay a basic registration fee of ₹3,500 under the Startup India Scheme. The registration procedure involves one-time certification with necessary certifications and recognition from DPIIT. The amount may change over time; hence, startups may check their latest requirement at the official Startup India portal.
Breakdown of Additional Costs Involved in the Process
Apart from the base fee, there are also other registration charges that might increase with a startup. These include:
- Fees for consultancies: When the startups hire their consultants to assist in the documentation or application, consultant fees vary
- Legal Fees: Legal costs may be incurred in preparation of documents, and even incorporation and filing of the paper, especially when legal help is needed in forming agreements or contracts
- Documentation Fees: This fee is in relation to acquiring and having certain documents notarised, for example, incorporation papers, or filings related to intellectual property.
Understand Government Subsidies or Fee Exemptions
Startup registration costs can also be brought down by the government providing waivers and subsidies. Other advantages of recognition with DPIIT is that it provides 80% rebate on patent filing fees and 50% off trademark registrations.
Startup India Registration Process
The Startup India registration process consists of several essential steps, from incorporating your business to obtaining DPIIT certification. Carefully following these steps and ensuring all documents are accurate is crucial for a successful registration. Here are four steps to register for Startup India:
Step 1: Company Registration: Incorporate your business as a Private Limited Company, Partnership Firm, or Limited Liability Partnership (LLP) by registering it with the Ministry of Corporate Affairs (MCA) or the Registrar of Firms based on your business structure.
Step 2: Register on the Startup India Portal: Create an account on the Startup India portal (startupindia.gov.in). Complete your profile with details like incorporation information, business address, and sector. This portal is the official gateway to access Startup India resources, so ensure accuracy to avoid delays.
Step 3: Apply for DPIIT Certification: After completing your profile, apply for DPIIT (Department for Promotion of Industry and Internal Trade) Certification. Submit an online application with documents such as the Certificate of Incorporation, business plan, and financial statements. Once approved, you will receive a unique recognition number to officially register your startup.
Step 4: Final Completion Checklist: Before submission, review a completion checklist to confirm all information is accurate and documents are properly uploaded. Verify that all required forms are filled out and that your contact details are correct. This minimises errors and speeds up the approval process.
How We Can Help in The Process?
At Audit Needs, we make the whole process of Startup India registration streamlined so that you can focus on what matters—growing your business. We offer a fast, secure, and entirely online process for delivering your Startup India registration certificate within three to five working days. All that we ask for is three simple documents, and you can start right away!
Steps to Get DPIIT Recognition
DPIIT recognition (Department for Promotion of Industry and Internal Trade) is a crucial milestone for startups seeking government validation and access to tax benefits under the Startup India Scheme. This certification boosts a startup’s credibility, unlocking incentives, funding opportunities, and resources essential for growth and expansion.
What is DPIIT Recognition and Why It’s Essential
DPIIT recognition is an official certification by the Indian Government that validates a startup’s eligibility for the Startup India Scheme. This recognition not only enhances a startup’s legitimacy but also unlocks key benefits like tax exemptions, funding opportunities, and simplified compliance processes. It connects startups to a supportive entrepreneurial ecosystem, helping them access crucial resources for growth and expansion.
DPIIT Recognition Process for Startups
1. Register on the Startup India Portal: Log in or sign up at startupindia.gov.in to create an account.
2. Apply for DPIIT Recognition: Fill out the DPIIT Application Form with details such as your business objectives, sector, and scalability potential. Attach mandatory documents like the Certificate of Incorporation, business plan, PAN, and any IP registrations if applicable. Ensure all documents are accurate and up-to-date.
3. Declaration and Submission: Confirm that your startup meets the DPIIT criteria by checking the self-declaration box, affirming that your business focuses on innovation and development.
4. Receive DPIIT Recognition Number: After submission, your application will be reviewed. Upon approval, you’ll receive a DPIIT recognition number, officially registering your startup under the scheme.
Benefits of DPIIT Recognition for Your Startup
DPIIT certification makes startups eligible for tax exemptions, simplified compliance procedures, access to government grants, and reduced fees for patent and trademark registrations. Below are the key benefits:
1. Tax Exemptions Under Section 80IAC
SPIRIT-recognised startups can benefit from income tax exemptions and capital gains tax relief under Section 80IAC, reducing the tax burden and enabling reinvestment into growth.
Conditions:
- The startup must be DPIIT-recognised
- Must be registered as a Private Limited Company or LLP
- Incorporation date should be on or after 1 April 2016
- Must meet eligibility under Section 80IAC
2. Tax Relief Under Section 56(2)(VIIB)
Under Section 56 of the Income Tax Act, DPIIT-recognized startups can receive exemptions on investments from listed companies, accredited investors, and non-residents.
Eligible Startups:
- Must be DPIIT-recognized and registered on the Startup India Portal
- Startups can receive tax relief up to ₹25 crore on share consideration
- Important Considerations: Avoid investments in immovable property, transport vehicles over ₹10 lakh, or capital contributions unless these are part of regular business operations.
3. Fast-Tracked Patent and IPR Applications
Startups recognised by DPIIT benefit from expedited patent applications and access to a panel of facilitators appointed by the Controller General of Patents, Designs, and Trademarks (CGPDTM).
- The Central Government covers facilitator fees for patents, trademarks, and design registrations
- Startups only pay statutory fees with an 80% rebate on patent filing costs.
4. Quick Winding Up of Companies
DPIIT recognition simplifies the winding-up process for startups. Under the Insolvency and Bankruptcy Code, 2016, eligible startups with simple debt structures can be closed within 90 days.
- An insolvency professional handles the process, ensuring that assets are liquidated and claims are settled within six months, facilitating quicker capital recovery.
5. Easier Public Procurement Norms
SPIRIT-recognised startups can sell on the Government e-Marketplace (GeM) and participate in government tenders without meeting prior experience/turnover criteria.
- These startups are exempted from Earnest Money Deposit (EMD) requirements, provided they meet quality and technical standards.
Startup India Registration Certificate
The Startup India Registration Certificate serves as proof of authenticity, enabling a startup to achieve tax exemption, funding, and compliance support provided under the Startup India Scheme. It is therefore very important for the attainment of a startup looking to grow in the startup ecosystem of India.
How to Get the Startup India Registration Certificate?
After the Startup India registration is successfully done and DPIIT gives recognition, the DPIIT issues a registration certificate. For obtaining the certificate
1. Complete the DPIIT Application: Ensure all necessary documentation is submitted and meets DPIIT criteria
2. Application Review: Post submission, the DPIIT will review the application. If approved, the certificate is issued
3. Download the Certificate: Upon approval, the registration certificate can be downloaded from the Startup India portal, serving as proof of registration.
Validity and Renewal of the Certificate
The Startup India Registration Certificate, in general, is valid up to 10 years from the issue date if eligibility is maintained continuously. Renewal is not generally needed within such a time period unless the business structure or details of operations change. Once the startup crosses 10 years or reaches a certain revenue threshold, its eligibility under the certificate may require reassessment.
Importance of the Certificate for Availing Benefits
Startup India registration certificate is a formal entry point of a startup into government programs; it provides recognition and legitimacy for a startup, which gets mostly translated into credibility with investors, partners, and customers. It is crucial every time you apply for a government based grant or other tax benefits.
Compliance and Post-Registration
After registering under the Startup India Scheme, there are several important steps to take to ensure the business maximises the available benefits while maintaining compliance with legal and regulatory requirements.
Steps to Take After Receiving Your Registration Certificate
Once officially registered under the Startup India Scheme, you will have to make sure that your business avails all the relevant benefits while staying compliant with legal and regulatory requirements. Here are 4 main things to do as soon as you receive your startup india registration certificate:
- Check for errors: Make sure that all the business information is correct
- Use the Benefits: Make use of government benefits like exemptions from income tax, granting provisions, and funds available, along with all relevant documentation and application forms properly filled to enable the benefits
- Registration of IP Protection: If eligible, file inventions associated with intellectual properties through patents or trademarks by utilising the schemes provided by the government to have a reduced fee
- Prepare compliance checklist: State-specific requirements for the startup India scheme and action plan for compliance obligations
- State-specific benefits: Certain states have their specific schemes. Investigate local schemes to avail of more benefits like subsidies, mentorship, and networking.
How to Leverage Startup India Benefits and Maintain Compliance?
These are the most important steps for startups to get the most out of this scheme and ensure that they stay compliant:
- File for Tax Exemptions: Avail available exemptions in sections like 80IAC for income tax and capital gains tax to reduce costs and plough them back into growth
- Check for Availability of Government Schemes and Funds: Eligibility for various government-backed schemes like Startup India Seed Fund Scheme, Credit Guarantee Scheme, etc., to make further funding and support available
- IP Protection: To make use of the IPR Fast Track System with reduced costs and expedited processes to protect inventions, trademarks, patents, etc
- Maintain the statutory filings and keep submitting reports, such as GST filings, income tax returns, and other reports that might be required under Indian laws
- Annual renewal: You have to keep uploading your information every year on the Startup India portal in order to maintain recognition and continue to benefit from the support systems available.
Ongoing Requirements and Annual Filings
Registered startups must be aware of the requirements and filing annually. Here are some important Startup India compliance guidelines:
- Annual Compliance Filings: The startup, as per its corporate structure, is required to submit annual financial statements, tax returns, and other statutory forms before the Ministry of Corporate Affairs, or MCA
- Incomes tax filings: Ensure timely submission of Income Tax Returns (ITR) in order to be eligible for tax exemptions and other benefits
- DPIIT Status Updates: Though a Startup India certificate is valid for 10 years, if there are any structural or operational changes then it must be reported to the concerned department to keep your startup status and benefits intact
- Regular Renewals: Some of the benefits or registrations are renewable. For instance, Intellectual Property Registrations. Renewal dates should be tracked so that lapse does not occur.
How We Can Help?
Post Startup India registration is done, Audit Needs further supports you to ensure that you meet all the ongoing requirements. We will help with annual filings, maintenance of your tax exemptions and ensure you are fully compliant on regulatory matters. The team shall keep you updated on the due dates, hence ensuring you also file all documents for the protection of IPR along with the updates on your registration.
How to Get the Startup India Registration Certificate?
After the Startup India registration is successfully done and DPIIT gives recognition, the DPIIT issues a registration certificate. For obtaining the certificate
1. Complete the DPIIT Application: Ensure all necessary documentation is submitted and meets DPIIT criteria
2. Application Review: Post submission, the DPIIT will review the application. If approved, the certificate is issued
3. Download the Certificate: Upon approval, the registration certificate can be downloaded from the Startup India portal, serving as proof of registration.
Startup India Registration
The Startup India Registration initiative, launched in 2016 by the Government of India, aims to transform India into an innovation hub. Recognized by the Department for Promotion of Industry and Internal Trade (DPIIT), startups enjoy benefits like tax exemptions, funding, and simplified compliance, fostering innovation, job creation, and economic growth.
Eligible startups (under 10 years old with turnover below ₹100 crore) gain cost reductions on IP filings, fast-tracked patent processing, and tender access without prior experience. Financial support from schemes like the Fund of Funds and Seed Fund Scheme, along with mentorship and networking opportunities, boosts growth. AuditNeeds simplifies the registration process, enabling startups to scale efficiently.
What is Startup India Scheme ?
The Startup India Scheme is a flagship initiative launched on January 16, 2016, by the Government of India to transform the country into a hub for innovation and entrepreneurship. The program’s mission is to shift India from a nation of job seekers to one of job creators. Managed by the Startup India Team under the Department for Promotion of Industry and Internal Trade (DPIIT), it offers startups financial support, mentorship, and favourable regulations to eliminate barriers and accelerate growth.
Objectives of the Startup India Scheme
The primary goal of Startup India is to enhance product development, innovation, and job opportunities in India.The three main pillars of Startup India include:
1. Funding Support and Incentives: Providing financial assistance and incentives to startups across the country
2. Industry-Academia Partnership and Incubation: Fostering collaboration between industry and academic institutions, and supporting incubation programs
3. Simplification and Handholding: Streamlining processes and offering guidance to help startups navigate challenges and scale effectively.
Startup India Registration Eligibility
The Startup India eligibility criteria cover three broad areas: turnover, startup age, innovation requirements, scalability potential, and sector-specific conditions. Here is a detailed outline for the same:
Age Limit
The startup should not exceed ten years from the date of incorporation or registration
Turnover Limit
The annual turnover of the startup during any of the financial years since incorporation shall not have exceeded ₹100 crore
Innovation Criteria
The business should contribute to innovation and add value to existing products or services, distinguishing it from other companies in the market
Scalability Potential
Startups must demonstrate high scalability, with the potential to generate substantial wealth and create employment opportunities
Sector-Specific Requirements
Any sector or industry based startup can avail this facility under the Startup India Scheme except those who qualify for primary eligibility criteria.
Startup India Registration Benefits
Startup India registration promotes innovation and development by offering benefits like tax exemptions, funding access, simplified compliance, and intellectual property protection. These benefits reduce operational challenges, provide financial support, and foster growth, creating an environment for startups to thrive and contribute to India’s economy. Here are five Startup India benefits and incentives:
- Tax Exemptions under startup India scheme
Startups registered under the Startup India Scheme can access significant tax relief, including a 100% income tax exemption for three years within their first ten years of incorporation. This reduces the tax burden in the early stages. Additionally, startups can benefit from reduced capital gains tax rates and financial incentives, enabling reinvestment in growth and innovation. - Simplified Compliance and Self-Certification
The Startup India Scheme simplifies regulatory processes to reduce the compliance burden on startups. It allows them to self-certify against certain labour and environmental laws, saving time and reducing legal costs. This streamlined compliance process helps startups focus on core operations and business development. - Funding Support
Registered startups can access a variety of government funding options, grants, and venture capital to support their growth. Through initiatives like the Fund of Funds, the Startup India Seed Fund Scheme, and the Credit Guarantee Scheme for Startups, startups can secure financial resources for scaling operations, R&D, and innovation.
Additionally, the Startup India Investor Connect platform links startups with potential investors, while the Funding Guide and various Central Government Schemes and Policies provide valuable support to help startups navigate and access these funding opportunities. - Protection of Intellectual Property Rights
The Startup India Scheme offers intellectual property (IP) protection benefits that cover patents, trademarks, and design registrations. Startups receive support in fast-tracking their IP applications and can access discounts on filing fees, which helps secure their innovations and establish brand value, safeguarding their competitive advantage. - Additional Benefits and Support from the Government
The scheme offers additional support through mentorship, networking events, and partnerships, linking startups with industry experts and collaborators. This support enhances the startup ecosystem by fostering collaboration, offering guidance, and providing access to valuable resources and strategic insights.
Documents Needed for Startup India Registration
Applicants must submit specific documents to prove their startup’s authenticity, business plan, and financial standing. Only verified startups can benefit from the scheme. Here is a list of documents required for Startup India Registration:
- Company incorporation or registration certificate
- Funding proof – If applicable, evidence of any financial backing received
- Authorisation Letter from the company’s authorised representative
- Concept proof like Business Plan, Pitch Deck or a video demonstrating the startup’s idea
- Patent and trademark details
- List of awards or certificates for your startup
- PAN (Permanent Account Number)
Startup India Registration Fees
Registration under the Startup India Scheme generally requires a base fee with possible extra additions. The government provides some waivers and subsidies in order to make it cost-effective for eligible startups, thus fastening the process. Here is a detailed outline:
Base Fee – ₹3,500
Applicants are required to pay a basic registration fee of ₹3,500 under the Startup India Scheme. The registration procedure involves one-time certification with necessary certifications and recognition from DPIIT. The amount may change over time; hence, startups may check their latest requirement at the official Startup India portal.
Breakdown of Additional Costs Involved in the Process
Apart from the base fee, there are also other registration charges that might increase with a startup. These include:
- Fees for consultancies: When the startups hire their consultants to assist in the documentation or application, consultant fees vary
- Legal Fees: Legal costs may be incurred in preparation of documents, and even incorporation and filing of the paper, especially when legal help is needed in forming agreements or contracts
- Documentation Fees: This fee is in relation to acquiring and having certain documents notarised, for example, incorporation papers, or filings related to intellectual property.
Understand Government Subsidies or Fee Exemptions
Startup registration costs can also be brought down by the government providing waivers and subsidies. Other advantages of recognition with DPIIT is that it provides 80% rebate on patent filing fees and 50% off trademark registrations.
Startup India Registration Process
The Startup India registration process consists of several essential steps, from incorporating your business to obtaining DPIIT certification. Carefully following these steps and ensuring all documents are accurate is crucial for a successful registration. Here are four steps to register for Startup India:
Step 1: Company Registration: Incorporate your business as a Private Limited Company, Partnership Firm, or Limited Liability Partnership (LLP) by registering it with the Ministry of Corporate Affairs (MCA) or the Registrar of Firms based on your business structure.
Step 2: Register on the Startup India Portal: Create an account on the Startup India portal (startupindia.gov.in). Complete your profile with details like incorporation information, business address, and sector. This portal is the official gateway to access Startup India resources, so ensure accuracy to avoid delays.
Step 3: Apply for DPIIT Certification: After completing your profile, apply for DPIIT (Department for Promotion of Industry and Internal Trade) Certification. Submit an online application with documents such as the Certificate of Incorporation, business plan, and financial statements. Once approved, you will receive a unique recognition number to officially register your startup.
Step 4: Final Completion Checklist: Before submission, review a completion checklist to confirm all information is accurate and documents are properly uploaded. Verify that all required forms are filled out and that your contact details are correct. This minimises errors and speeds up the approval process.
How We Can Help in The Process?
At Audit Needs, we make the whole process of Startup India registration streamlined so that you can focus on what matters—growing your business. We offer a fast, secure, and entirely online process for delivering your Startup India registration certificate within three to five working days. All that we ask for is three simple documents, and you can start right away!
Steps to Get DPIIT Recognition
DPIIT recognition (Department for Promotion of Industry and Internal Trade) is a crucial milestone for startups seeking government validation and access to tax benefits under the Startup India Scheme. This certification boosts a startup’s credibility, unlocking incentives, funding opportunities, and resources essential for growth and expansion.
What is DPIIT Recognition and Why It’s Essential
DPIIT recognition is an official certification by the Indian Government that validates a startup’s eligibility for the Startup India Scheme. This recognition not only enhances a startup’s legitimacy but also unlocks key benefits like tax exemptions, funding opportunities, and simplified compliance processes. It connects startups to a supportive entrepreneurial ecosystem, helping them access crucial resources for growth and expansion.
DPIIT Recognition Process for Startups
1. Register on the Startup India Portal: Log in or sign up at startupindia.gov.in to create an account.
2. Apply for DPIIT Recognition: Fill out the DPIIT Application Form with details such as your business objectives, sector, and scalability potential. Attach mandatory documents like the Certificate of Incorporation, business plan, PAN, and any IP registrations if applicable. Ensure all documents are accurate and up-to-date.
3. Declaration and Submission: Confirm that your startup meets the DPIIT criteria by checking the self-declaration box, affirming that your business focuses on innovation and development.
4. Receive DPIIT Recognition Number: After submission, your application will be reviewed. Upon approval, you’ll receive a DPIIT recognition number, officially registering your startup under the scheme.
Benefits of DPIIT Recognition for Your Startup
DPIIT certification makes startups eligible for tax exemptions, simplified compliance procedures, access to government grants, and reduced fees for patent and trademark registrations. Below are the key benefits:
1. Tax Exemptions Under Section 80IAC
SPIRIT-recognised startups can benefit from income tax exemptions and capital gains tax relief under Section 80IAC, reducing the tax burden and enabling reinvestment into growth.
Conditions:
- The startup must be DPIIT-recognised
- Must be registered as a Private Limited Company or LLP
- Incorporation date should be on or after 1 April 2016
- Must meet eligibility under Section 80IAC
2. Tax Relief Under Section 56(2)(VIIB)
Under Section 56 of the Income Tax Act, DPIIT-recognized startups can receive exemptions on investments from listed companies, accredited investors, and non-residents.
Eligible Startups:
- Must be DPIIT-recognized and registered on the Startup India Portal
- Startups can receive tax relief up to ₹25 crore on share consideration
- Important Considerations: Avoid investments in immovable property, transport vehicles over ₹10 lakh, or capital contributions unless these are part of regular business operations.
3. Fast-Tracked Patent and IPR Applications
Startups recognised by DPIIT benefit from expedited patent applications and access to a panel of facilitators appointed by the Controller General of Patents, Designs, and Trademarks (CGPDTM).
- The Central Government covers facilitator fees for patents, trademarks, and design registrations
- Startups only pay statutory fees with an 80% rebate on patent filing costs.
4. Quick Winding Up of Companies
DPIIT recognition simplifies the winding-up process for startups. Under the Insolvency and Bankruptcy Code, 2016, eligible startups with simple debt structures can be closed within 90 days.
- An insolvency professional handles the process, ensuring that assets are liquidated and claims are settled within six months, facilitating quicker capital recovery.
5. Easier Public Procurement Norms
SPIRIT-recognised startups can sell on the Government e-Marketplace (GeM) and participate in government tenders without meeting prior experience/turnover criteria.
- These startups are exempted from Earnest Money Deposit (EMD) requirements, provided they meet quality and technical standards.
Startup India Registration Certificate
The Startup India Registration Certificate serves as proof of authenticity, enabling a startup to achieve tax exemption, funding, and compliance support provided under the Startup India Scheme. It is therefore very important for the attainment of a startup looking to grow in the startup ecosystem of India.
How to Get the Startup India Registration Certificate?
After the Startup India registration is successfully done and DPIIT gives recognition, the DPIIT issues a registration certificate. For obtaining the certificate
1. Complete the DPIIT Application: Ensure all necessary documentation is submitted and meets DPIIT criteria
2. Application Review: Post submission, the DPIIT will review the application. If approved, the certificate is issued
3. Download the Certificate: Upon approval, the registration certificate can be downloaded from the Startup India portal, serving as proof of registration.
Validity and Renewal of the Certificate
The Startup India Registration Certificate, in general, is valid up to 10 years from the issue date if eligibility is maintained continuously. Renewal is not generally needed within such a time period unless the business structure or details of operations change. Once the startup crosses 10 years or reaches a certain revenue threshold, its eligibility under the certificate may require reassessment.
Importance of the Certificate for Availing Benefits
Startup India registration certificate is a formal entry point of a startup into government programs; it provides recognition and legitimacy for a startup, which gets mostly translated into credibility with investors, partners, and customers. It is crucial every time you apply for a government based grant or other tax benefits.
Compliance and Post-Registration
After registering under the Startup India Scheme, there are several important steps to take to ensure the business maximises the available benefits while maintaining compliance with legal and regulatory requirements.
Steps to Take After Receiving Your Registration Certificate
Once officially registered under the Startup India Scheme, you will have to make sure that your business avails all the relevant benefits while staying compliant with legal and regulatory requirements. Here are 4 main things to do as soon as you receive your startup india registration certificate:
- Check for errors: Make sure that all the business information is correct
- Use the Benefits: Make use of government benefits like exemptions from income tax, granting provisions, and funds available, along with all relevant documentation and application forms properly filled to enable the benefits
- Registration of IP Protection: If eligible, file inventions associated with intellectual properties through patents or trademarks by utilising the schemes provided by the government to have a reduced fee
- Prepare compliance checklist: State-specific requirements for the startup India scheme and action plan for compliance obligations
- State-specific benefits: Certain states have their specific schemes. Investigate local schemes to avail of more benefits like subsidies, mentorship, and networking.
How to Leverage Startup India Benefits and Maintain Compliance?
These are the most important steps for startups to get the most out of this scheme and ensure that they stay compliant:
- File for Tax Exemptions: Avail available exemptions in sections like 80IAC for income tax and capital gains tax to reduce costs and plough them back into growth
- Check for Availability of Government Schemes and Funds: Eligibility for various government-backed schemes like Startup India Seed Fund Scheme, Credit Guarantee Scheme, etc., to make further funding and support available
- IP Protection: To make use of the IPR Fast Track System with reduced costs and expedited processes to protect inventions, trademarks, patents, etc
- Maintain the statutory filings and keep submitting reports, such as GST filings, income tax returns, and other reports that might be required under Indian laws
- Annual renewal: You have to keep uploading your information every year on the Startup India portal in order to maintain recognition and continue to benefit from the support systems available.
Ongoing Requirements and Annual Filings
Registered startups must be aware of the requirements and filing annually. Here are some important Startup India compliance guidelines:
- Annual Compliance Filings: The startup, as per its corporate structure, is required to submit annual financial statements, tax returns, and other statutory forms before the Ministry of Corporate Affairs, or MCA
- Incomes tax filings: Ensure timely submission of Income Tax Returns (ITR) in order to be eligible for tax exemptions and other benefits
- DPIIT Status Updates: Though a Startup India certificate is valid for 10 years, if there are any structural or operational changes then it must be reported to the concerned department to keep your startup status and benefits intact
- Regular Renewals: Some of the benefits or registrations are renewable. For instance, Intellectual Property Registrations. Renewal dates should be tracked so that lapse does not occur.
How We Can Help?
Post Startup India registration is done, Audit Needs further supports you to ensure that you meet all the ongoing requirements. We will help with annual filings, maintenance of your tax exemptions and ensure you are fully compliant on regulatory matters. The team shall keep you updated on the due dates, hence ensuring you also file all documents for the protection of IPR along with the updates on your registration.
How to Get the Startup India Registration Certificate?
After the Startup India registration is successfully done and DPIIT gives recognition, the DPIIT issues a registration certificate. For obtaining the certificate
1. Complete the DPIIT Application: Ensure all necessary documentation is submitted and meets DPIIT criteria
2. Application Review: Post submission, the DPIIT will review the application. If approved, the certificate is issued
3. Download the Certificate: Upon approval, the registration certificate can be downloaded from the Startup India portal, serving as proof of registration.