Democratising Entrepreneurship
Startup India’s decade-long journey reflects the expansion of entrepreneurship beyond metropolitan hubs. Approximately 50% of recognized startups now emerge from Tier-II and Tier-III cities, demonstrating the democratization of innovation and the widening reach of economic opportunity across the country.
These startups are driving technological solutions in sectors like agri-tech, ed-tech, telemedicine, and microfinance, effectively bridging the rural-urban divide and supporting regional development. Women-led startups are also playing a pivotal role, with more than 45% having at least one woman director or partner.
Key Programs Supporting Startups
The Department for Promotion of Industry and Internal Trade (DPIIT) under the Ministry of Commerce and Industry has implemented several flagship initiatives:
- Fund of Funds for Startups (FFS): A ₹10,000 crore fund channelled through Alternative Investment Funds to invest in over 1,370 startups.
- Credit Guarantee Scheme for Startups (CGSS): Guarantees collateral-free loans, covering 330+ loans worth over ₹800 crore.
- Startup India Seed Fund Scheme (SISFS): Financial support for early-stage startups with a corpus of ₹945 crore supporting 215+ incubators.
- Startup India Hub: Digital platform connecting investors, mentors, and incubators with aspiring entrepreneurs nationwide.
- National Mentorship Portal (MAARG): Provides guidance and mentorship to startups, strengthening ecosystem support.
Atal Innovation Mission (AIM)
Launched by NITI Aayog in 2016, AIM fosters a nationwide culture of innovation through programs like Atal Tinkering Labs (ATLs), Community Innovator Fellowship, and Youth Co:Lab. With more than 10,000 ATLs in 733 districts, millions of students are being trained in skills such as AI, robotics, IoT, and 3D printing, producing over 16 lakh innovation projects to date.
Rural and Grassroots Initiatives
Programs such as the Startup Village Entrepreneurship Program (SVEP), ASPIRE, and PMEGP have enabled micro-enterprises, women-led ventures, and local job creation. SVEP alone has supported 3.74 lakh rural enterprises, strengthening local economies and providing sustainable livelihoods.
Technology and Deep-tech Startups
Through GENESIS, MeitY Startup Hub, TIDE 2.0, and NIDHI, India is scaling deep-tech innovation, supporting over 6,148 technology startups and 517 incubators nationwide. These initiatives focus on AI, IoT, robotics, blockchain, and inclusive innovation, integrating early-stage startups into the broader economy.
Looking Ahead
Marking a decade of Startup India, the ecosystem is entering a phase of sustainable scale and deeper real-economy integration. With robust policy frameworks, technological support, and inclusive programs, India’s startups are shaping a future of innovation-led growth, economic inclusion, and global competitiveness.
