Scheme for assistance for Start Ups/ Innovation: Pre- Series A Funding
Gujarat-based startups that have already received seed funding can access mid-level Pre-Series A investment through this scheme, managed by Gujarat Venture Finance Limited (GVFL). It bridges the "valley of death" — the tough phase after commercialization when revenue is growing but market traction is still limited. Apply online at startup.gujarat.gov.in through an approved Nodal Institution.
About This Scheme
Gujarat-based startups that have already received seed funding can access mid-level Pre-Series A investment through this scheme, managed by Gujarat Venture Finance Limited (GVFL). It bridges the "valley of death" — the tough phase after commercialization when revenue is growing but market traction is still limited. Apply online at startup.gujarat.gov.in through an approved Nodal Institution.
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 "Pre-Series A Funding", bridges the financial gap known as the "valley of death" in a startup's lifecycle. This phase occurs after commercialization, when startups begin generating revenue but have not yet gained significant market traction. Under Gujarat Venture Finance Limited (GVFL), a special fund is created to provide mid-level Pre-Series A funding to startups, particularly those that have received seed support under various government schemes.
Benefits
- Mid-level Pre-Series A funding provided through a special fund managed by GVFL (Gujarat Venture Finance Limited)
- Targets the post-commercialization growth phase when startups need capital but haven't yet achieved major market traction
- Specific funding quantum decided on a case-by-case basis through GVFL's evaluation process
Who Can Apply (Eligibility)
- Open to any individual or team with an innovative idea recommended by an approved Nodal Institution
- Sector-agnostic: technology, agriculture, healthcare, engineering, and more are all eligible
- Startups that previously received seed support under government schemes are especially targeted
- Startups already benefiting from SSIP (Student Startup and Innovation Policy) are also eligible
- Entities formed by splitting or restructuring an existing business are not eligible
- Cannot be combined with other Gujarat government startup schemes
Exclusions
- Entities formed by splitting or restructuring an existing business are not considered startups under this scheme.
- Startups availing benefits under other startup schemes of the Government of Gujarat are ineligible.
How to Apply
Registration Process:
Step 1: Visit the online portal and click on the "Register" button, located at the top right corner. Step 2: Enter Email ID and click on Next button. Verify the details and click on "Submit" to get registered on portal. Step 3: Upon login, fill in the details on Common Application Form. Click on "Sign Up".
Application Process:
Step 1: Visit the online portal and click on Login button. Enter Registered Email ID and Password and click on the "Sign In" button Step 2: In "Dashboard" section fill in all the required details. Step 3: Click on Apply Now Icon located at Dashboard of User. Step 4: From the list Select the Scheme and Fill the Application details.
Contact Us:
Startup Gujarat Cell Office of Industries Commissionerate Block No: 1, 3rd Floor, Udhyog Bhavan, Sector: 11, Gandhinagar - 382010 Gujarat, INDIA. 079-23252588 / 1800-233-0616 icstup@gujarat.gov.in
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 "Pre-Series A Funding"?
Pre-Series A funding is a financial mechanism that supports startups during the phase after commercialization but before they achieve significant market traction.
Which startups are eligible for this funding?
Startups with innovative ideas, recognized by an approved Nodal Institution, and those that have received seed support under government schemes are eligible for this funding.
Is the funding scheme limited to specific sectors?
No, the scheme is sector-agnostic and supports innovative projects in all industries, including science, technology, healthcare, agriculture, and more.
Can a startup receive benefits from multiple government schemes?
Startups availing incentives under other government startup schemes, except the Student Startup and Innovation Policy (SSIP), are not eligible for this funding.
Are startups formed by splitting or reconstructing existing businesses eligible?
No, entities formed by splitting up or reconstructing an existing business are not eligible for this funding.
What role do Nodal Institutions play in the funding process?
Nodal Institutions are responsible for evaluating, validating, and recommending startup proposals to the Industries Commissioner's Office for further scrutiny and approval.
Are startups in the student category eligible to apply?
Yes, startups availing benefits under the Student Startup and Innovation Policy (SSIP) are eligible for this funding.
Who provides the final approval for the funding?
The final approval is provided by the State Level Empowered Committee (SLEC) after due diligence and scrutiny.
Ready to apply?
Visit the official government portal to apply for this scheme.
Apply on myScheme.gov.inDocuments Required
- Proof of startup registration (Startup India or equivalent).
- Recommendation letter from a Nodal Institution.
- Business proposal document with innovative idea details.
- Financial documents, including projected revenue and funding requirements.
- A declaration of non-availment of incentives under other schemes (except SSIP, if applicable).
- Any other documents (If required).