Patent Reimbursement Incentives: Karnataka Startup Policy — Frequently Asked Questions
Answers to the questions founders most often ask about Patent Reimbursement Incentives: Karnataka Startup Policy — who qualifies, the funding amount, required documents and how the application works.
Frequently asked questions
How much can I claim as reimbursement?
For a granted Indian patent, the maximum is ₹2 lakh. For a granted foreign patent covering the same invention, the cap is ₹10 lakh. Note that these limits apply only after the patent is granted, but interim funding (75%) is available after filing.
Is there a deadline to apply?
No, the program is rolling with no fixed closing date. However, your patent must be filed during the period when the Karnataka Startup Policy is active.
Which startups are eligible?
Only incubated startups registered with the Karnataka Startup Cell that hold a valid KBITS registration number. The patent must be technology-based.
What costs does the reimbursement cover?
It covers all mandatory government filing and prosecution fees, as well as fees paid to a patent agent or attorney for drafting and pursuing the patent application.
When do I receive the funds?
You get 75% of the approved amount soon after your patent application is successfully filed. The remaining 25% is paid once the patent is officially granted. Processing takes up to three months from approval.
Can I apply after my patent is already granted?
Yes, the rules state you must have already filed (or been granted) the patent and paid all relevant fees before applying. Both pending and granted patents are accepted as long as other conditions are met.
Do I need DPIIT or MSME registration?
No, only KBITS registration and incubation status are required. DPIIT and MSME registration are not mentioned as necessary for this program.
How long does the application process take?
A decision is usually made within three months from the date your complete application is received, provided all scrutiny and approval stages are cleared.
Is this program open to startups outside Karnataka?
No, it is specific to Karnataka. Only startups registered under the Karnataka startup ecosystem and incubated are eligible.
What documents do I need to submit?
You need to provide proof of KBITS registration, patent filing or grant details, invoices from patent authorities and legal counsel, and payment receipts for government and attorney fees. A complete application should include all verification documents.
Does Patent Reimbursement Incentives: Karnataka Startup Policy take equity?
No. Patent Reimbursement Incentives: Karnataka Startup Policy is subsidy and is non-dilutive — the provider does not take an equity stake in your startup.
Who is eligible to apply for Patent Reimbursement Incentives: Karnataka Startup Policy?
Patent Reimbursement Incentives: Karnataka Startup Policy is open to startups at the idea, product, revenue and profitable stage working in agri food rural, ai saas enterprise, climate energy ev and consumer apps marketplaces. The programme is targeted at startups registered in Karnataka.
Who offers Patent Reimbursement Incentives: Karnataka Startup Policy?
Patent Reimbursement Incentives: Karnataka Startup Policy is offered by KBITS, Government of Karnataka, a government body. It is provided as non-dilutive funding.
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