SFASIPSF

Scheme for assistance for Start Ups/ Innovation: Pre- Series A Funding

5.9/10

The "Scheme for Assistance for Start Ups/ Innovation" under the Gujarat Industrial Policy, aims to drive economic growth by generating jobs, fostering competition, and introducing next-gen solutions.

State Cash

States / UT: Gujarat

Nodal department: Industries and Mines Department

Scheme for: Infra

Scheme profile

DBT (direct benefit transfer): No

Scheme open date: 2020-08-07

Categories: Business & Entrepreneurship

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

Target beneficiaries: Business Entity, Industries

Tags: Start Up, Innovation, Entrepreneurship, Funding

Details

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

  • - Bridges Funding Gap: Provides financial support during the critical "valley of death" phase
  • Bridges Funding Gap: Provides financial support during the critical "valley of death" phase.

Eligibility

  • Any individual or group of individuals with an innovative idea or concept, recommended by an approved Nodal Institution, is eligible.
  • The scheme is open to startups in any sector or branch of science, technology, engineering, agriculture, healthcare, etc., making it sector-agnostic.

Note: Startups availing benefits under the Student Startup and Innovation Policy (SSIP) are also eligible.

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 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.

5.9
/ 10
Public Benefit Score
Accessibility 5.0/10 Moderate
Rural usefulness 6.0/10 Moderate
Application complexity 3.0/10 Good
Financial impact 6.0/10 Moderate
Literacy barrier 5.0/10 Moderate
Women inclusivity 6.0/10 Moderate
Awareness 4.5/10 Moderate
Implementation reliability 7.0/10 Good
Bigger shape means a better fit for citizens
  • Accessibility5.0
  • Financial impact6.0
  • Rural utility6.0
  • Awareness4.5
  • Simplicity7.0
  • Inclusivity6.0

What problem does this scheme solve?

The scheme provides essential funding support to startups during a critical phase, promoting innovation and economic growth.

Key challenges addressed

  • Funding gap for startups in the 'valley of death' phase.

Most beneficial for

  • Innovative startups seeking financial support.

Likely challenges

  • Complex application process may deter potential applicants.

Practical insights for citizens

The scheme may be underutilized due to application complexity.

Rural challenges

  • Limited internet access in rural areas.

Digital challenges

  • High digital dependency may exclude non-digital users.

Implementation bottlenecks

  • Potential delays in approval process.

Awareness challenges

  • Limited awareness among rural entrepreneurs.

Application analysis

Application mode
Online portal
Documents burden
Low
Verification complexity
Moderate
Office dependency
Low
DBT dependency
No
CSC support
Limited
Estimated citizen effort
Moderate

Estimated beneficiary reach

  • Rural / urban reach Moderate
  • Gender reach Moderate

Benefit analysis

Benefit type
Cash
Benefit practicality
High, as it addresses immediate funding needs.
Financial meaningfulness
Moderate, as it provides crucial support but may not cover all startup costs.
Long-term impact
Positive, as it encourages innovation and job creation.

Plain-language guidance

This scheme helps startups get financial support during a tough phase. It is open to innovative ideas from various sectors.

Who should apply
Startups with innovative ideas looking for funding.
Who may struggle
Individuals unfamiliar with online applications or lacking digital access.
Best application route
Apply through the online portal after registration.

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

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

Clarifications

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

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.

Definitions

  • Startups (For The Purpose Of This Scheme)
  • Innovative Project
  • Mentor

References

Guidelines
https://ic.gujarat.gov.in/documents/commondoc/2020/13-GR_02092020.pdf
User Manual
https://startup.gujarat.gov.in/assets/pdf/Startup%20User%20-%20V%201.0.pdf

Apply

Apply now

Opens the official application or programme portal in a new tab. If in doubt, confirm details on the ministry site.

Frequently asked questions

What is the purpose of Scheme for assistance for Start Ups/ Innovation: Pre- Series A Funding?
Scheme for assistance for Start Ups/ Innovation: Pre- Series A Funding is a government welfare initiative designed to support Infra, Business Entity, Industries through benefits related to Business & Entrepreneurship, financial assistance, subsidies, social welfare, healthcare, education, or livelihood support.
Who can apply for Scheme for assistance for Start Ups/ Innovation: Pre- Series A Funding?
Eligibility for Scheme for assistance for Start Ups/ Innovation: Pre- Series A Funding 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 Scheme for assistance for Start Ups/ Innovation: Pre- Series A Funding?
Benefits under Scheme for assistance for Start Ups/ Innovation: Pre- Series A Funding 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 Scheme for assistance for Start Ups/ Innovation: Pre- Series A Funding?
Scheme for assistance for Start Ups/ Innovation: Pre- Series A Funding is managed by Industries and Mines Department and may be implemented through district offices, online portals, CSC centres, banks, or authorised government agencies.
Can users apply online for Scheme for assistance for Start Ups/ Innovation: Pre- Series A Funding?
Yes, eligible applicants may be able to apply online for Scheme for assistance for Start Ups/ Innovation: Pre- Series A Funding through official government portals, authorised service centres, or digital application systems depending on the implementation process.
Is Aadhaar mandatory for Scheme for assistance for Start Ups/ Innovation: Pre- Series A Funding?
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 Scheme for assistance for Start Ups/ Innovation: Pre- Series A Funding?
Applications for Scheme for assistance for Start Ups/ Innovation: Pre- Series A Funding 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 Scheme for assistance for Start Ups/ Innovation: Pre- Series A Funding?
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 Scheme for assistance for Start Ups/ Innovation: Pre- Series A Funding available in all states?
No, Scheme for assistance for Start Ups/ Innovation: Pre- Series A Funding is primarily available for eligible residents of Gujarat and may be implemented through state government departments and local administrative offices.
Can residents outside Gujarat apply for Scheme for assistance for Start Ups/ Innovation: Pre- Series A Funding?
Eligibility for Scheme for assistance for Start Ups/ Innovation: Pre- Series A Funding is generally limited to residents of Gujarat unless otherwise specified in the official scheme guidelines.
Does Scheme for assistance for Start Ups/ Innovation: Pre- Series A Funding provide business loan or startup assistance?
Scheme for assistance for Start Ups/ Innovation: Pre- Series A Funding may support entrepreneurs, startups, self-employed individuals, MSMEs, or small businesses through financial assistance, subsidies, credit support, or training initiatives.
Is collateral required under Scheme for assistance for Start Ups/ Innovation: Pre- Series A Funding?
Collateral requirements may vary depending on the loan amount, implementing agency, financial institution, and government subsidy structure.
Can CSC centres help users apply for Scheme for assistance for Start Ups/ Innovation: Pre- Series A Funding?
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 Scheme for assistance for Start Ups/ Innovation: Pre- Series A Funding?
Users should verify official notifications, department announcements, application deadlines, and eligibility updates through authorised government portals or implementing agencies.
Are there deadlines for applying to Scheme for assistance for Start Ups/ Innovation: Pre- Series A Funding?
Some schemes may operate through fixed application windows, annual registration cycles, or department-specific deadlines depending on scheme implementation policies.
Can beneficiaries track application status for Scheme for assistance for Start Ups/ Innovation: Pre- Series A Funding?
Certain schemes may provide online application tracking, beneficiary verification systems, or status-check facilities through official portals.
Where can users get help for Scheme for assistance for Start Ups/ Innovation: Pre- Series A Funding in Gujarat?
Users in Gujarat 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 Scheme for assistance for Start Ups/ Innovation: Pre- Series A Funding 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.