Seed Capital Scheme
Provides a one-time non-repayable grant of up to ₹10 lakh to Goa startups to develop a Minimum Viable Product (MVP).
- Funding amount
- ₹10L (grant)
- Funding type
- Grant
- Provider
- Goa Startup Mission (Government)
- Application deadline
- Rolling
- Eligible stage
- Any stage
- Location
- Open to startups registered in India
Overview
The Seed Capital Scheme, operated by the Goa Startup Mission under the Goa Start-up Policy 2021, offers a one-time non-repayable grant of up to ₹10 lakh to help Goa-based startups with promising ideas develop a Minimum Viable Product (MVP). The scheme is governed by the Startup IT Promotion Cell (SITPC), which conducts due diligence and selects up to 100 startups annually. This initiative aims to reduce the financial risk for early-stage founders, enabling them to prototype and validate their concepts without giving up equity.
Highlights
- Up to ₹10 lakh non-repayable grant for MVP development
- 100 startups selected annually
- Exclusively for SITPC-certified Goa startups
- Non-dilutive funding – no equity taken
- Rolling applications with annual selection cycle
Who can apply
Only Goa-based startups that are certified by the Startup IT Promotion Cell (SITPC) and possess a valid startup certificate number may apply. Additionally, the directors' bank accounts must be linked to Aadhaar. There are no restrictions on industry, stage, or entity type beyond being a certified startup as defined by SITPC.
Seed Capital Scheme is open to startups at any stage. It is open to startups registered anywhere in India.
- Eligible stage
- Any stage
- Location
- Open to startups registered in India
Deadline & timing
Seed Capital Scheme 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.
What the funding covers
Recipients receive a one-time grant of up to ₹10,00,000 (₹10 lakh) that does not need to be repaid. The funds are specifically earmarked for developing a Minimum Viable Product (MVP). The scheme aims to support 100 startups each year, selected through a due diligence process by SITPC. The grant is disbursed as cash and is non-dilutive, meaning the startup retains full ownership.
About the provider
Seed Capital Scheme is offered by Goa 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.
How to apply
Applications are submitted on the official portal. Confirm the current deadline and document checklist there before you start.
Selection process
Applications undergo a due diligence process conducted by the SITPC panel of experts. Shortlisted startups are required to deliver a presentation to the panel, explaining their plan of action for creating an MVP. Selection is based on the viability of the idea and the startup's capacity to execute the plan.
Documents you’ll need
Before you apply to Seed Capital Scheme, keep the following documents ready:
- 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.
Who this is best for
Seed Capital Scheme is best suited for startups in India seeking non-dilutive funding of ₹10L. If that describes your startup, review the eligibility criteria above before applying.
Frequently asked questions
What type of funding is the Seed Capital Scheme?
It is a one-time non-repayable grant, meaning startups do not have to pay it back.
What is the maximum grant amount I can receive?
Startups can receive up to ₹10 lakh (INR 10,00,000).
Who is eligible to apply?
Goa-based startups that are certified by the Startup IT Promotion Cell (SITPC) and have a valid startup certificate number. Additionally, the directors' bank accounts must be linked to Aadhaar.
What can the grant be used for?
The grant is specifically intended for developing a Minimum Viable Product (MVP).
How many startups are selected each year?
The scheme selects up to 100 startups annually.
Is there a deadline to apply?
The scheme operates on a rolling basis with an annual selection cycle. No specific deadline has been announced; applications are accepted continuously until the slots are filled.
Does the scheme take equity in my startup?
No. The grant is non-repayable and non-dilutive, so you retain full ownership of your startup.
What documents are required to apply?
You need to submit address proof of the operational office in Goa, a cancelled cheque of the startup, the founder's CV in World Bank format, and a detailed plan of action for creating an MVP.
How do I apply?
Applications are submitted online through the Goa Startup Mission website at https://startup.goa.gov.in/StartupIncentives.
Is DPIIT or MSME registration required?
No. The scheme requires certification from SITPC (Goa Startup IT Promotion Cell) instead of DPIIT or MSME registration.
How much funding does Seed Capital Scheme provide?
Seed Capital Scheme provides ₹10L (up to) as grant. Always confirm the exact amount and any conditions on the official site, as figures can change between cohorts.
Who offers Seed Capital Scheme?
Seed Capital Scheme is offered by Goa Startup Mission, a government body. It is provided as non-dilutive funding.
More funding from Goa Startup Mission
Goa Startup Mission runs 6 other programs listed on startupfunds — compare them before you decide where to apply.
Alternatives to Seed Capital Scheme
Not sure Seed Capital Scheme is the right fit, or already applied? These are other grants open to Indian startups that founders shortlist alongside it.
Questions from founders
Ask anything about eligibility, documents or the process — answered by the community.
No questions yet — be the first to ask.