GENESIS

GEN-NEXT Support for Innovative Startups (GENESIS)

6.2/10

The scheme aims to discover, support, grow, and accelerate successful startups in Tier-2 and Tier-3 cities, with a focus on inclusivity, accessibility, and affordability.

Central Cash

States / UT: All India

Ministry / nodal: Ministry of Electronics and Information Technology

Scheme for: Individual

Scheme profile

Categories: Business & Entrepreneurship

Sub-categories: Setting up / start-up / entrepreneurship

Target beneficiaries: Business Entity

Tags: Startups, Investment, Capacity Building, Centres Of Excellence, Incubation, Mentorship, Entrepreneurs

Details

The scheme "Gen-Next Support for Innovative Startups (GENESIS)" has been launched by the Ministry of Electronics and Information Technology (MeitY), Government of India. It aims to discover, support, grow and accelerate successful startups in Tier-2 and Tier-3 cities, with emphasis on collaborative engagement among startups, government, and corporates for promoting digitisation based on the principles of inclusivity, accessibility, and affordability, leading to growth in employment and economic outputs. Through this scheme, funding support (for Pilot/Proof-of-Concept, Investment, Early-stage, and Deep-tech categories), capacity-building, mentorship, ecosystem linkages, and community-building initiatives are provided to students, faculty, academic institutions, budding entrepreneurs, startup companies, incubators, Centres of Excellence (CoEs), accelerators, mentors, investors, and corporates engaged in innovation-based growth. The scheme is implemented by MeitY Startup Hub (MSH) through approximately 50 Implementing Agencies (IAs), preferably from Tier-2 and Tier-3 cities of the country. The total budget outlay for the scheme is ₹4,90,00,00,000/- (₹490 Crore) for a duration of 5 years. The programme envisages impacting and consolidating 10,000+ tech startups over the course of the next 5 years to pave the road for an inclusive startup ecosystem.

Objectives:

  • Consolidation of all the existing schemes and assets of MeitY to provide greater efficiency in asset utilisation, increased return from scheme expenditure, and overall enhanced support for startups.
  • Building Tier-II and Tier-III focused funding to critically support Pilot/Investment, Early-stage and deep-tech startups. Implementation partners and the startups selection under the GENESIS Scheme will be done by experts based on a defined and structured selection process.
  • Community Building initiatives, including workshops, boot camps, conferences, etc., to strengthen the ecosystem and build brand and recognition of MeitY Startups-related Initiatives. All the activities under GENESIS will be aligned to MeitY's major initiatives, including India AI, ISM, and India Stack, etc.

Benefits

  • The scheme provides support across 4 components: 1. Investment Support:
  • Private-sector matching funding at 1:1 for the investment component of the scheme
  • Average funding of ₹40,00,000/- (₹40 Lakhs), up to a maximum of ₹50,00,000/- (₹50 Lakhs) per startup
  • Matching fund requirement: Yes (1:1 private sector match). 1. Pilot (Proof-of-Concept) Support:
  • Pilot funding to startups with average funding of ₹40,00,000/- (₹40 Lakhs), up to ₹50,00,000/- (₹50 Lakhs)
  • Matching fund requirement: None. 1. Ideation Support (Entrepreneur in Residence — EiR:
  • Supports early-stage startups with funding of up to ₹10,00,000/- (₹10 Lakhs)
  • Matching fund requirement: None. 1. Deep-tech Startup Support:
  • Provision to support select Deep-tech startups with funding support of an upper ceiling of ₹1,00,00,000/- (₹1 Crore) per startup
  • Matching fund requirement: None. 1. Non-Monetary Benefits:
  • GENESIS Startup Platform: A single-window solution for all startup-centric schemes of MeitY, programmes, and initiatives targeted towards Tier-2 and Tier-3 cities and towns
  • Challenges Execution: Sourcing, executing, monitoring, and reporting on challenges and supporting startups

The scheme provides support across 4 components:

  1. Investment Support:
  • Private-sector matching funding at 1:1 for the investment component of the scheme.
  • Average funding of ₹40,00,000/- (₹40 Lakhs), up to a maximum of ₹50,00,000/- (₹50 Lakhs) per startup.
  • Matching fund requirement: Yes (1:1 private sector match).
  1. Pilot (Proof-of-Concept) Support:
  • Pilot funding to startups with average funding of ₹40,00,000/- (₹40 Lakhs), up to ₹50,00,000/- (₹50 Lakhs).
  • Matching fund requirement: None.
  1. Ideation Support (Entrepreneur in Residence — EiR:
  • Supports early-stage startups with funding of up to ₹10,00,000/- (₹10 Lakhs).
  • Matching fund requirement: None.
  1. Deep-tech Startup Support:
  • Provision to support select Deep-tech startups with funding support of an upper ceiling of ₹1,00,00,000/- (₹1 Crore) per startup.
  • Matching fund requirement: None.
  1. Non-Monetary Benefits:
  • GENESIS Startup Platform: A single-window solution for all startup-centric schemes of MeitY, programmes, and initiatives targeted towards Tier-2 and Tier-3 cities and towns.
  • Challenges Execution: Sourcing, executing, monitoring, and reporting on challenges and supporting startups.
  • Corporate and Institutional Partnerships: Building linkages with global startup ecosystems and aggregating resources from global and local industries, institutions, and agencies for the benefit of startups.
  • Capacity Building and Performance Optimisation: Optimising and enhancing the performance of MeitY assets, programmes, and schemes via capacity-building programmes.
  • Building a self-sustaining "community of communities": Creating awareness and engagement of a larger number of startups via effective and pervasive media and marketing programmes.

Eligibility

Eligibility for Implementing Agencies (IAs):

The applicant Implementing Agency must be a legal entity and must fall under one of the following categories:

  1. The applicant should be an entity registered under Section 8 of the Companies Act; OR
  2. The applicant should be a society registered under the Societies Registration Act, 1860; OR
  3. The applicant should be a trust registered under the Indian Trusts Act, 1882; OR
  4. The applicant should be a statutory body created through an Act of the legislature.
  5. The applicant may also be an Incubator, Accelerator, or Educational Institute recognised by the University Grants Commission (UGC) / All India Council for Technical Education (AICTE), or formed under a Central/State Act.
  6. The applicant should be an entity engaged in supporting startups as part of the startup ecosystem.

Eligibility for Startups:

  1. The applicant should be a beneficiary of MeitY Schemes or should be registered with MeitY Startup Hub (MSH).
  2. The applicant should be a startup registered with the Department for Promotion of Industry and Internal Trade (DPIIT).
  3. The shareholding by Indian promoters in the applicant startup should be at least 51% at the time of application to the incubator for the scheme, as per the Companies Act, 2013.
  4. The applicant startup should have a full-time Chief Executive Officer (CEO).
  5. The applicant startup should have market-ready products and should be seeking funds for business development and commercialisation (applicable in certain categories).

How useful is this scheme?

Public benefit analysis

A practical look at this scheme for citizens

AI-generated insights showing how useful, accessible, and practical this scheme may be — combining deterministic scoring rules with a public-policy LLM analyst.

6.2
/ 10
Public Benefit Score
Accessibility 5.0/10 Moderate
Rural usefulness 4.0/10 Moderate
Application complexity 6.0/10 Moderate
Financial impact 9.5/10 Good
Literacy barrier 8.0/10 Challenging
Women inclusivity 6.0/10 Moderate
Awareness 7.5/10 Good
Implementation reliability 7.0/10 Good
Bigger shape means a better fit for citizens
  • Accessibility5.0
  • Financial impact9.5
  • Rural utility4.0
  • Awareness7.5
  • Simplicity4.0
  • Inclusivity6.0

What problem does this scheme solve?

The GENESIS scheme aims to support innovative startups in Tier-2 and Tier-3 cities, promoting inclusivity and accessibility in entrepreneurship.

Key challenges addressed

  • Lack of funding for startups in smaller cities
  • Need for mentorship and capacity building

Most beneficial for

  • Budding entrepreneurs
  • Startups in Tier-2 and Tier-3 cities
  • Educational institutions

Likely challenges

  • Complex eligibility criteria
  • Digital application process may exclude some applicants

Practical insights for citizens

The scheme's focus on Tier-2 and Tier-3 cities is beneficial, but practical access remains a challenge.

Rural challenges

  • Limited internet access
  • Lack of awareness about the scheme

Digital challenges

  • High digital dependency may exclude non-digital users

Implementation bottlenecks

  • Complex eligibility and selection process

Awareness challenges

  • Low awareness in rural areas

Application analysis

Application mode
Online portal
Documents burden
Moderate, requires several documents
Verification complexity
Moderate, involves expert committee selection
Office dependency
Low, primarily online
DBT dependency
None
CSC support
Limited
Estimated citizen effort
Moderate, requires time for application and documentation

Estimated beneficiary reach

  • Rural / urban reach Moderate
  • Gender reach Moderate
  • Target income group Low to middle-income entrepreneurs
  • Occupation reach Entrepreneurs, students, and educators

Benefit analysis

Benefit type
Cash
Benefit frequency
One-time funding per startup
Benefit practicality
High, if eligible
Financial meaningfulness
Moderate, with funding amounts varying based on category
Long-term impact
Potentially significant if successful startups emerge

Plain-language guidance

GENESIS supports startups in smaller cities with funding and mentorship. It is designed for entrepreneurs looking to grow their businesses.

Who should apply
Startups registered with MeitY or DPIIT, especially in Tier-2 and Tier-3 cities.
Who may struggle
Individuals with limited digital skills or access to the internet.
Best application route
Apply via the official MeitY Startup Hub portal.

This intelligence section is generated by an AI policy analyst combined with rule-based scoring. Scores and narrative are estimates derived from the publicly available scheme information shown on this page; actual experience may vary by state, district, and department. Always confirm details on the official portal before you apply.

Application Process

Online

Step 1: Visit the Official Portal: Go to the official MeitY Startup Hub website at https://msh.meity.gov.in/ to access all scheme-related information, notifications, and the application portal.
Step 2: Review eligibility criteria for either Implementing Agencies or Startups as detailed in Section 4 of this document, and confirm that all conditions are met before applying.
Step 3: Register on the GENESIS Startup Platform (described as a single-window solution for all MeitY startup-centric schemes) or log in if already registered with MeitY Startup Hub (MSH).
Step 4: Identify the relevant funding/support component — Ideation Support (Entrepreneur in Residence), Pilot (Proof-of-Concept) Support, Investment Support, or Deep-tech Startup Support — based on the stage and nature of the startup.
Step 5: Fill in the application form and upload all required documents as listed in Section 5. Ensure that the DPIIT Registration Certificate, shareholding pattern, and other relevant documents are ready before submission.
Step 6: Implementation partners and startups are selected under the GENESIS Scheme by an expert committee based on a defined and structured selection process.
Step 7: Once selected, startups are monitored through the GENESIS platform. Progress, milestone achievement, and fund utilisation are tracked and reported.

Contact for Queries:

For any queries, contact MeitY Startup Hub at meity-sthub@gov.in or call 011-24301244. Office: MeitY Startup Hub, 2044, Electronics Niketan, 6, CGO Complex, Lodhi Road, New Delhi – 110003


Clarifications

Additional points from the scheme information published on myScheme (not legal advice).

What does GENESIS stand for, and which ministry has launched it?

GENESIS stands for "Gen-Next Support for Innovative Startups." It has been launched by the Ministry of Electronics and Information Technology (MeitY), Government of India, and is implemented by the MeitY Startup Hub (MSH).

What is the total budget and duration of the GENESIS scheme?

The total budgetary outlay for the GENESIS scheme is ₹4,90,00,00,000/- (₹490 Crore). The scheme is operational for a duration of 5 years.

Which cities or regions does the GENESIS scheme primarily target?

The GENESIS scheme primarily targets Tier-2 and Tier-3 cities and towns across India. The scheme aims to discover, support, grow, and accelerate successful startups in these cities, ensuring an inclusive startup ecosystem beyond metropolitan areas.

How many startups does the GENESIS scheme aim to impact?

The GENESIS scheme envisages impacting and consolidating 10,000+ (more than ten thousand) tech startups over the course of its 5-year duration.

What are the 4 funding/support components available under the GENESIS scheme?

The 4 components under the GENESIS scheme are: 1. Ideation Support (Entrepreneur in Residence — EiR): Funding up to ₹10,00,000/- (₹10 Lakhs) for early-stage startups; no matching fund required. 2. Pilot (Proof-of-Concept) Support: Average funding of ₹40,00,000/- (₹40 Lakhs), up to ₹50,00,000/- (₹50 Lakhs); no matching fund required. 3. Investment Support: Average funding of ₹40,00,000/- (₹40 Lakhs), up to ₹50,00,000/- (₹50 Lakhs); requires 1:1 private sector matching fund. 4. Deep-tech Startup Support: Funding up to ₹1,00,00,000/- (₹1 Crore) per startup; no matching fund required.

Which funding component requires a matching contribution from the private sector?

Only the Investment Support component requires a private sector matching fund in the ratio of 1:1. This means that for every rupee provided by the government under this component, the startup (or its investors) must arrange an equal amount from private sector sources. The Pilot (Proof-of-Concept) Support, Ideation Support (EiR), and Deep-tech Startup Support components do not require any matching fund.

Who are the eligible Implementing Agencies (IAs) under the GENESIS scheme?

An Implementing Agency must be a legal entity and must fall under one of the following categories: • Entity registered under Section 8 of the Companies Act. • Society registered under the Societies Registration Act, 1860. • Trust registered under the Indian Trusts Act, 1882. • Statutory body created through an Act of the legislature. • Incubator, Accelerator, or Educational Institute recognised by the University Grants Commission (UGC) / All India Council for Technical Education (AICTE), or formed under a Central/State Act. • Any other startup ecosystem entity engaged in supporting startups.

What are the eligibility conditions for a startup to apply under GENESIS?

A startup must meet all of the following conditions to be eligible: • Should be a beneficiary of a MeitY scheme or registered with MeitY Startup Hub (MSH). • Should be registered with the Department for Promotion of Industry and Internal Trade (DPIIT). • Indian promoters must hold at least 51% shareholding in the startup at the time of application, as per the Companies Act, 2013. • Must have a full-time Chief Executive Officer (CEO). • Must have market-ready products and be seeking funds for business development and commercialisation (applicable in certain categories).

Who are the target beneficiaries of the GENESIS scheme?

The GENESIS scheme targets all stakeholders engaged in the creation, promotion, and acceleration of the startup ecosystem in India. This includes: • Students, faculty, and academic institutions. • Budding entrepreneurs. • Startup companies and their employees. • Incubators, Centres of Excellence (CoEs), and accelerators. • Mentors and investors. • Corporates engaged in innovation-based growth.

How can one apply or get more information about the GENESIS scheme?

Applicants can visit the official MeitY Startup Hub portal at https://msh.meity.gov.in/ for scheme details, eligibility, notifications, and the application process. For further queries, contact MeitY Startup Hub at: • Email: meity-sthub@gov.in • Phone: 011-24301244 • Office: MeitY Startup Hub, 2044, Electronics Niketan, 6, CGO Complex, Lodhi Road, New Delhi – 110003.

References

Guidelines
https://www.meity.gov.in/static/uploads/2024/02/GENESIS_Admin_Approval-1.pdf
Brochure
https://www.meity.gov.in/static/uploads/2024/02/Brochure_GENESIS.pdf
Official Website
https://www.meity.gov.in/offerings/schemes-and-services/details/gen-next-support-for-innovative-startups-genesis-gN5AjNtQWa

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Frequently asked questions

What is the purpose of GEN-NEXT Support for Innovative Startups (GENESIS)?
GEN-NEXT Support for Innovative Startups (GENESIS) is a government welfare initiative designed to support Individual, Business Entity through benefits related to Business & Entrepreneurship, financial assistance, subsidies, social welfare, healthcare, education, or livelihood support.
Who can apply for GEN-NEXT Support for Innovative Startups (GENESIS)?
Eligibility for GEN-NEXT Support for Innovative Startups (GENESIS) may depend on factors such as income category, age, gender, occupation, state of residence, social category, and government-defined beneficiary criteria.
What benefits are offered under GEN-NEXT Support for Innovative Startups (GENESIS)?
Benefits under GEN-NEXT Support for Innovative Startups (GENESIS) may include financial assistance, subsidies, scholarships, insurance support, healthcare benefits, pension support, training assistance, or welfare services depending on the scheme guidelines.
Which department manages GEN-NEXT Support for Innovative Startups (GENESIS)?
GEN-NEXT Support for Innovative Startups (GENESIS) is managed by Ministry of Electronics and Information Technology and may be implemented through district offices, online portals, CSC centres, banks, or authorised government agencies.
Can users apply online for GEN-NEXT Support for Innovative Startups (GENESIS)?
Yes, eligible applicants may be able to apply online for GEN-NEXT Support for Innovative Startups (GENESIS) through official government portals, authorised service centres, or digital application systems depending on the implementation process.
Is Aadhaar mandatory for GEN-NEXT Support for Innovative Startups (GENESIS)?
Many government schemes may require Aadhaar verification, identity proof, or linked bank account details for beneficiary validation and direct benefit transfer processing.
Where can users apply for GEN-NEXT Support for Innovative Startups (GENESIS)?
Applications for GEN-NEXT Support for Innovative Startups (GENESIS) may be submitted through government departments, official scheme portals, CSC centres, district offices, welfare departments, or authorised service centres.
What documents may be required for GEN-NEXT Support for Innovative Startups (GENESIS)?
Applicants may need Aadhaar card, income certificate, residence proof, bank account details, caste certificate, photographs, educational records, or occupation-related documents depending on scheme eligibility requirements.
Is GEN-NEXT Support for Innovative Startups (GENESIS) a central government scheme?
Yes, GEN-NEXT Support for Innovative Startups (GENESIS) is a central government welfare initiative that may be implemented across multiple states through authorised departments and agencies.
Does GEN-NEXT Support for Innovative Startups (GENESIS) provide business loan or startup assistance?
GEN-NEXT Support for Innovative Startups (GENESIS) may support entrepreneurs, startups, self-employed individuals, MSMEs, or small businesses through financial assistance, subsidies, credit support, or training initiatives.
Is collateral required under GEN-NEXT Support for Innovative Startups (GENESIS)?
Collateral requirements may vary depending on the loan amount, implementing agency, financial institution, and government subsidy structure.
Can CSC centres help users apply for GEN-NEXT Support for Innovative Startups (GENESIS)?
Many government schemes may be accessible through nearby CSC centres, authorised digital service centres, or welfare facilitation offices.
How can users check the latest updates for GEN-NEXT Support for Innovative Startups (GENESIS)?
Users should verify official notifications, department announcements, application deadlines, and eligibility updates through authorised government portals or implementing agencies.
Can beneficiaries track application status for GEN-NEXT Support for Innovative Startups (GENESIS)?
Certain schemes may provide online application tracking, beneficiary verification systems, or status-check facilities through official portals.
Where can users get help for GEN-NEXT Support for Innovative Startups (GENESIS) in All India?
Users in All India may seek assistance through CSC centres, district welfare offices, government departments, agriculture offices, social welfare departments, or authorised facilitation centres.
Which nearby public services may help with GEN-NEXT Support for Innovative Startups (GENESIS) applications?
Depending on the scheme, users may require support from Aadhaar centres, CSC centres, banks, hospitals, post offices, or government welfare offices for document verification and application assistance.