Scheme for assistance for Start Ups/ Innovation: Assistance to Enroll and Participate for Acceleration Program
Up to ₹3 lakh for accelerator program participation · Gujarat startups
Gujarat startups with innovative ideas — in any sector — can get up to ₹3 lakh from the state government to enroll and participate in nationally or internationally recognized acceleration programs. The startup must be recommended by an approved Nodal Institution registered with the Industries Commissionerate. Apply online at startup.gujarat.gov.in after registering and completing your Common Application Form.
About This Scheme
Gujarat startups with innovative ideas — in any sector — can get up to ₹3 lakh from the state government to enroll and participate in nationally or internationally recognized acceleration programs. The startup must be recommended by an approved Nodal Institution registered with the Industries Commissionerate. Apply online at startup.gujarat.gov.in after registering and completing your Common Application Form.
Full official description
The "Scheme for Assistance for Start Ups/ Innovation" is an umbrella scheme launched by the Industries and Mines Department, Gujarat under the Gujarat Industrial Policy. Effective from August 7th, 2020 to August 6th, 2025, it aims to drive economic growth by generating jobs, fostering competition, and introducing next-gen solutions. The component "Assistance to Enroll and Participate for Acceleration Program", provides financial assistance to startups to enroll and participate in nationally or internationally recognized acceleration programs. This initiative is designed to support innovative projects across all sectors, enabling startups to access advanced resources, mentorship, and opportunities for growth.
Benefits
- Financial assistance of up to ₹3,00,000 to cover enrollment and participation costs in recognized acceleration programs
- Eligible for nationally or internationally recognized accelerators
- Helps startups access mentorship, investor networks, and growth resources through these programs
💡 Why Startups Should Care
Top accelerator programs (Y Combinator-style or domestic equivalents) charge significant fees or equity for access, but the mentorship and investor network access is often worth it. This scheme funds that entry cost, letting Gujarat startups access high-value accelerators without straining their own runway.
Who Can Apply (Eligibility)
- Any individual or group of individuals with an innovative idea, recommended by an approved Nodal Institution in Gujarat
- Open to startups in any sector: technology, healthcare, agriculture, engineering, and more
- Startups already benefiting under SSIP (Student Startup and Innovation Policy) are also eligible
- Entities formed by splitting or restructuring an existing business do not qualify as a startup
- Must not currently be availing benefits under any other Gujarat government startup scheme
Exclusions
- Entities formed by splitting or restructuring an existing business are not considered startups
How to Apply
- Visit startup.gujarat.gov.in and click "Register" to log in or create an account.
- Identify and enroll in a recognized acceleration program.
- Retain the program brochure, fee receipt, and enrollment confirmation.
- Submit these documents through the portal for reimbursement.
- Assistance is disbursed after verification of participation.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the objective of the "Scheme for Assistance for Start Ups/ Innovation"?
The "Scheme for Assistance for Start Ups/ Innovation" is an umbrella scheme launched by the Industries and Mines Department, Gujarat under the Gujarat Industrial Policy. Effective from August 7th, 2020 to August 6th, 2025, aims to drive economic growth by generating jobs, fostering competition, and introducing next-gen solutions.
What is the purpose of the "Assistance to Enroll and Participate for Acceleration Program" component?
The "Assistance to Enroll and Participate for Acceleration Program" component aims to provide financial assistance to startups to enroll and participate in nationally or internationally recognized acceleration programs.
What is the maximum financial assistance provided under the scheme?
The scheme provides assistance of up to [?]3 lakh per startup to cover the fees or charges for attending acceleration programs.
Are travel and accommodation expenses covered under this scheme?
No, the scheme does not cover travel or accommodation expenses; it only includes fees or charges related to the program.
Who is eligible to apply for the scheme?
Any individual or group of individuals with an innovative idea, recommended by an approved Nodal Institution, is eligible to apply.
Can startups from any sector apply for the scheme?
Yes, the scheme is sector-agnostic and supports startups from any sector, including science, technology, engineering, agriculture, and healthcare.
Are startups availing benefits from other schemes eligible to apply?
Startups availing benefits under other Government of Gujarat startup schemes, except for the Student Startup and Innovation Policy (SSIP), are not eligible for this scheme.
What is an acceleration program, and how does it help startups?
An acceleration program is a structured initiative that provides mentorship, resources, and support to help startups grow, scale, and refine their ideas.
What is the role of a Nodal Institution in the application process?
A Nodal Institution evaluates, validates, and recommends the startup's project proposal to the Office of the Industries Commissioner for further approval.
Can a startup formed by reconstructing an existing business apply for the scheme?
No, startups formed by splitting or reconstructing an existing business are not eligible for the scheme.
Are student startups eligible for assistance under this scheme?
Yes, startups availing benefits under the Student Startup and Innovation Policy (SSIP) are eligible to apply for this scheme.
What is the process for approval of a startup’s proposal?
The Nodal Institution evaluates and recommends the proposal, which is then scrutinized by the Office of the Industries Commissioner and approved by the SLEC.
Ready to apply?
Visit the official government portal to apply for this scheme.
Apply on myScheme.gov.inDocuments Required
- Informative document of the acceleration program (brochure, leaflet, or host letter)
- Details of fees paid for participating in the program