Startup Odisha Product Development & Marketing Grant – Up to ₹16L Equity-Free — Frequently Asked Questions

The maximum grant amount is ₹15 lakh. However, if your startup's founder(s)/co-founder(s) are women, transgender, or belong to social categories like SC/ST/SEBC/PH and hold at least 50% equity in the startup, you can receive up to ₹16 lakh.

To be eligible, your entity must be recognized as a startup under the Startup Odisha Initiative. Additionally, you must meet one of the following criteria: either have received at least ₹25 lakh in equity financing from SEBI registered AIF Category 1 & 2 funds or Angel Networks; or have a sanction letter of funding/grant of at least ₹5 lakh from the Government of India or any State Government; or demonstrate a revenue run rate of ₹10 lakh per month over the last six months.

The grant assistance is primarily for product development and marketing/publicity activities. This includes expenses related to refining your innovative product, conducting market research, developing branding strategies, advertising campaigns, and other promotional efforts aimed at successfully introducing your product to the market.

The scheme explicitly requires recognition as a startup entity under the Startup Odisha Initiative. While DPIIT recognition is often beneficial, the primary requirement for this scheme is the state-level Startup Odisha recognition.

The scheme is rolling, meaning applications are always open. There is no specified deadline; you can apply at any time.

After submitting your online application, the Nodal Agency reviews it within approximately 2 weeks. Following this, the Startup Secretariat collates applications, undertakes due diligence, and presents recommendations to the Task Force for final approval, typically within another 2 weeks. The entire process from application to approval generally aims for a quick turnaround, with disbursement following swiftly upon Task Force approval.

The scheme is open to startups across all sectors, provided they are developing and marketing an 'innovative product.' There are no explicit restrictions on the industry, allowing for a broad range of technology and business model innovations to be supported.

First, ensure your startup is recognized under the Startup Odisha Initiative. Then, apply online through the designated portal for monetary benefits, filling out the standard application form and uploading supporting documents for your eligibility criteria, such as equity financing proof, grant sanction letter, or revenue statements. After submission, your application will be reviewed, and if approved, the funds will be directly disbursed to your startup's bank account.

No, the grant assistance is equity-free. You do not have to give up any ownership stake in your startup in exchange for the grant.

You will need to provide evidence of your eligibility, such as proof of equity financing (e.g., term sheet or investment agreement), the sanction letter for government funding, or revenue statements showing your monthly run rate. Additionally, you will need to submit details about your startup, product, and proposed use of funds as part of the application form.

Startup Odisha Product Development & Marketing Grant – Up to ₹16L Equity-Free provides ₹16L (up to) as grant. Always confirm the exact amount and any conditions on the official site, as figures can change between cohorts.

Startup Odisha Product Development & Marketing Grant – Up to ₹16L Equity-Free is offered by Startup Odisha, a government body. It is provided as non-dilutive funding.