ELEVATE Shakti 2026 — Startup Karnataka Women-Led Grant — Frequently Asked Questions
Answers to the questions founders most often ask about ELEVATE Shakti 2026 — Startup Karnataka Women-Led Grant — who qualifies, the funding amount, required documents and how the application works.
Frequently asked questions
Who is ELEVATE Shakti For?
It is for women-led startups where a woman or group of women is a founder or co-founder holding at least a 51% stake in the company.
What Is the Maximum Grant Amount?
Startups can receive up to ₹50 lakh as a one-time grant.
What Stake Must Women Founders Hold?
Women founders must hold at least 51% equity collectively, for the entire project duration. Dilution breaching this leads to disqualification or termination of support.
Is ELEVATE Shakti Open to Startups Outside Karnataka?
No, only startups registered in Karnataka and operating from any location in the state are eligible.
Does ELEVATE Shakti Take Equity in the Startup?
No. It is a grant-in-aid and is completely non-dilutive, so no equity is taken.
Can We Apply to Other ELEVATE Calls Simultaneously?
Yes, a startup can apply to multiple ELEVATE calls, but the same pitch is evaluated across all calls and the total cumulative grant is capped at ₹50 lakh.
What Are the Application Dates?
Applications opened on 25 May 2026, and the final deadline is 25 June 2026, 5:00 PM IST.
What Are the Selection Criteria?
The evaluation parameters are: Novelty/Innovation (30 marks), Strength of Business Model (30 marks), Potential Socioeconomic Impact (20 marks), Team Strength (10 marks), and Budgetary Allocation (10 marks). A minimum of 60 out of 100 in the Multi-City Pitching round is required to reach the next stage.
Is There a Different Process for Shakti Applications?
Yes, Shakti applicants skip the preliminary desk-based pitch deck review and go directly to in-person Multi-City Pitching.
What Documents Are Required for Application?
The online application requires incorporation/registration details, business and innovation details, founding team credentials, financials, a grant utilisation plan, and mandatory documents reflecting the women shareholding pattern.
How much funding does ELEVATE Shakti 2026 — Startup Karnataka Women-Led Grant provide?
ELEVATE Shakti 2026 — Startup Karnataka Women-Led Grant provides ₹50L (up to) as grant. Always confirm the exact amount and any conditions on the official site, as figures can change between cohorts.
What is the application deadline for ELEVATE Shakti 2026 — Startup Karnataka Women-Led Grant?
The application deadline for ELEVATE Shakti 2026 — Startup Karnataka Women-Led Grant is Closed (15 Jul 2026). Deadlines can be revised, so reconfirm on the official source before applying.
Is DPIIT recognition required for ELEVATE Shakti 2026 — Startup Karnataka Women-Led Grant?
No. DPIIT (Startup India) recognition is not listed as a mandatory requirement for ELEVATE Shakti 2026 — Startup Karnataka Women-Led Grant, though having it can strengthen your application and unlock other benefits.
Who is eligible to apply for ELEVATE Shakti 2026 — Startup Karnataka Women-Led Grant?
ELEVATE Shakti 2026 — Startup Karnataka Women-Led Grant is open to startups at the idea, product and revenue stage. The programme is targeted at startups registered in Karnataka. Applicants should be registered as private limited, llp and partnership.
Who offers ELEVATE Shakti 2026 — Startup Karnataka Women-Led Grant?
ELEVATE Shakti 2026 — Startup Karnataka Women-Led Grant is offered by Startup Karnataka, a government body. It is provided as non-dilutive funding.
How do I apply for ELEVATE Shakti 2026 — Startup Karnataka Women-Led Grant?
Applications go through 5 stages, starting with Online Application Submission. Apply through the official application link on this page.
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