About this scheme
Elevate Karnataka is the state startup grant programme. Annual call for innovation-driven startups; winners get seed equity-free grants for product development, market expansion, and IP creation. Run by Karnataka Innovation & Technology Society (KITS).
What you get
- Seed grant up to Rs. 50 lakh (equity-free)
- Top 5% get additional Rs. 25-50 lakh follow-on
- Free incubation at KITS-empanelled incubators
- Procurement preference in KA government tenders
- Investor pitch days at Bengaluru Tech Summit
- IP support: patent filing reimbursement
Who qualifies
DPIIT-recognised startups headquartered in Karnataka with at least one founder ordinarily resident in KA. Less than 7 years old. Sector focus: ESDM, biotech, agritech, animation/gaming, AVGC, ML/AI, IoT, cleantech.
How to apply
- 1Watch for annual Elevate Karnataka call (typically Jul-Sep)
- 2Submit pitch deck + product demo + financial plan
- 3Shortlist evaluation by sector experts
- 4Pitch day in Bengaluru
- 5Winners announced; grant disbursed in 3-4 tranches
- 612-18 months execution with quarterly reviews
Key terms and conditions
- Equity-free grants — no dilution
- Milestone-based disbursement
- 3-year minimum KA HQ commitment
- Annual progress + employment reporting
What disqualifies you
- Startups outside Karnataka excluded
- Non-DPIIT recognised excluded
- Bootstrapped service businesses not in focus sectors
Documents typically required
- DPIIT recognition
- KA HQ proof
- Pitch deck
- Founder KYC
The content above is compiled from public information published by the scheme authority. Eligibility, benefits, and procedures are subject to change. Confirm details directly with the official portal before applying. BharatSeal does not process scheme applications.