Market Acceleration Grant

The Market Acceleration Grant from Kerala Startup Mission (KSUM) is designed for early-revenue tech startups that need capital to scale their market presence. This equity-free grant provides up to ₹10 lakhs, disbursed in milestone-based installments, to fund marketing, customer acquisition, branding, and product improvements. Startups must contribute 30% of the approved grant as margin money.

This grant is part of KSUM's efforts to nurture promising ventures. Startups that previously received KSUM's Idea Grant or Productization Grant remain eligible, though the total funding across all KSUM grants is capped at ₹10 lakhs. Only Kerala-based startups with a valid KSUM Unique ID may apply.

• Equity-free grant of up to ₹10 lakhs from Kerala Startup Mission
• For early-revenue tech startups based in Kerala
• Milestone-based disbursement for accountability
• Funds marketing, branding, customer acquisition, and product improvement
• 30% margin money contribution required from startup
• Prior KSUM grant recipients are eligible for remaining amount up to ₹10 lakhs

Eligible startups must have achieved early revenue and operate in the technology sector with an innovative product. Applicants must be registered as a Private Limited Company, LLP, or One Person Company with active MCA status. A valid KSUM Unique ID is required. Only startups based in Kerala need apply. Previously funded startups under KSUM's Idea Grant or Productization Grant are eligible for the remaining balance up to ₹10 lakhs.

Market Acceleration Grant is open to startups at the revenue stage. The programme is targeted at startups registered in Kerala. Applicants should be registered as private limited and llp.

Market Acceleration Grant accepts applications on a rolling basis — there is no fixed cut-off date, so eligible startups can apply at any time. Because rolling programmes can pause without notice, confirm the window is still open on the official site before you start.

Successful applicants receive up to ₹10 lakhs in equity-free funding, disbursed in milestone-based tranches. Funds may be used for:

• Marketing campaigns
• Customer acquisition
• Branding initiatives
• Product improvements aimed at market growth

Startups must provide 30% of the approved grant as margin money, demonstrating commitment and co-investment.

Market Acceleration Grant is offered by Kerala Startup Mission, a government body. As a government-backed grant, it is publicly funded and open to eligible startups across India. You can verify current details and timelines on the provider's official website before applying.

Applications are initially screened by KSUM officials for basic eligibility and completeness. Shortlisted startups are invited to pitch before an Expert Committee comprising industry experts, investors, and domain specialists. The committee evaluates team strength, product innovation and market potential, marketing and customer acquisition strategies, financial projections, and clarity of the grant utilization plan. Approved startups execute an agreement with KSUM, and funds are disbursed based on verified milestone achievements through progress reports.

Before you apply to Market Acceleration Grant, keep these documents ready — note the program-specific requirements at the top:

• Certificate of incorporation showing your startup is registered as private limited and llp
• A pitch deck or short business plan describing the problem, product and traction
• Company registration documents and PAN
• Founder identification (PAN / Aadhaar) and brief profiles
• Recent financial statements or projections
• Product details — a demo, prototype or working link if available

Exact requirements are confirmed on the official application portal — treat this as a preparation checklist.

Market Acceleration Grant is best suited for revenue-stage startups in India seeking non-dilutive funding of ₹10L. If that describes your startup, review the eligibility criteria above before applying.