How to Apply for ELEVATE Unnati 2026 — Startup Karnataka Grant for SC/ST Founders

Applications are scored out of 100 across five parameters: Novelty/Innovation (30 marks), Strength of Business Model (30 marks), Potential Socio-economic Impact (20 marks), Team Strength (10 marks), and Budgetary Allocation (10 marks). The jury panel changes composition based on round domain expertise. A minimum score of 60 in the Multi-City Pitching round is needed to advance to the Grand Finale. Cumulative scores from the Grand Finale determine the final merit list and tiered grant allocation.

The process has five stages:

• Online Application Submission: Submit via the ELEVATE portal with required documents and details.
• Data Sufficiency & Eligibility Screening: The Program Management Unit verifies eligibility criteria, including SC/ST equity share, legal structure, startup age, turnover cap, and ownership norms.
• Multi-City Pitching: In-person pitch sessions across Karnataka; Unnati applicants skip desk-based evaluation and go directly here. A minimum 60/100 score is required.
• Grand Finale Pitching: Final pitching event leading to a consolidated merit list for Unnati.
• Final Selection, Grant Sanction & Onboarding: The merit list is ratified by the ELEVATE Evaluation Committee (chaired by Secretary, Department of Electronics, IT, BT & S&T), followed by grant sanction and signing of a tripartite agreement.