Startup India Eligibility Checker
Answer key questions about your startup — find out if you qualify for DPIIT recognition, tax holidays, self-certification, and Fund of Funds access.
Need Professional Help?
Our Chartered Accountants can handle all your compliance needs — from filing to advisory.
What type of entity is your business?
Only certain entity types qualify for DPIIT recognition.
Startup India DPIIT Recognition — Eligibility Criteria 2026
The Department for Promotion of Industry and Internal Trade (DPIIT) provides Startup India recognition to innovative businesses in India. This recognition unlocks significant benefits including tax holidays, simplified compliance, fast-tracked patents, and access to the ₹10,000 Crore Fund of Funds.
Key Eligibility Criteria
- Entity Type: Must be a Private Limited Company, LLP, or Registered Partnership Firm
- Age: Less than 10 years from the date of incorporation/registration
- Turnover: Annual turnover must not exceed ₹100 Crore in any financial year
- Innovation: Must be working towards innovation, development, or improvement of products/services/processes
- Original Entity: Must not be formed by splitting/reconstruction of an existing business
Documents Required for DPIIT Application
- Certificate of Incorporation / Registration
- PAN Card of the entity
- Aadhaar of authorized representative
- Brief description of your innovation (product/service/process)
- Website URL or mobile app link (if available)
- Pitch deck or business plan (optional but recommended)
Further Reading
- Need to register your entity first? Use our Business Structure Quiz to find the right entity type.
- Want to know the cost? Check our Company Registration Cost Estimator.
- Already registered? See your personalized compliance calendar.
Frequently Asked Questions
How long does DPIIT recognition take?
DPIIT typically processes applications within 2-5 working days. In some cases, they may ask for additional clarification, which can extend the timeline to 2-3 weeks.
Can a sole proprietorship get Startup India recognition?
No, sole proprietorships are not eligible. You must be registered as a Private Limited Company, LLP, or Partnership Firm. Consider converting to an LLP if you're a solo founder.
Is DPIIT recognition free?
Yes! There is no government fee for DPIIT Startup India recognition. The application process is entirely online and free of charge.
Related Tools
Registration Cost
Get a complete cost breakdown for Pvt Ltd, LLP, OPC, Section 8 & Partnership — including state-wise stamp duty, government fees, DSC & DIN costs.
Name Checker
Check your desired company name against MCA naming guidelines. Get AI-powered name suggestions with compliance scores and alternative recommendations.
Compliance Calendar
Enter your business type and registrations — get a personalized 12-month calendar with all due dates, forms, penalties, and Google Calendar integration.
Business Structure Quiz
Answer 8–10 questions and get a personalized recommendation: Sole Prop, Partnership, LLP, Pvt Ltd, OPC, or Section 8 — with detailed comparison table.
Need Professional Help?
Our Chartered Accountants can handle all your compliance needs — from filing to advisory.