Women/Transgender Productization Grant — Frequently Asked Questions
Answers to the questions founders most often ask about Women/Transgender Productization Grant — who qualifies, the funding amount, required documents and how the application works.
Frequently asked questions
Who qualifies as a women or transgender-led startup?
Women or transgender founders must collectively hold at least 51% equity in the startup. Additionally, the person presenting the pitch to the Expert Committee must be a woman or a transgender individual.
What is the maximum funding available?
You can receive up to ₹5 lakhs through this grant.
Is DPIIT or MSME registration required?
Neither DPIIT nor MSME registration is required. You only need a valid KSUM Unique ID, which you obtain by registering with the Kerala Startup Mission.
Does the grant take equity or a stake in my startup?
No. This is a pure grant with no equity taken. You do not give away any shares.
What can I use the grant money for?
You can use it for product development, validation, and early market-readiness activities. However, expenses like founder salaries, rent, land or building purchases, large infrastructure, and equipment costing more than ₹2 lakhs are not allowed.
Can startups from outside Kerala apply?
No, only startups registered and operating in Kerala are eligible.
Is there a deadline to apply?
Applications are accepted on a rolling basis, meaning it is always open. You can apply via the KSUM website during open calls.
What happens after I submit my application?
KSUM officials screen applications for eligibility. Shortlisted startups are invited to pitch to an Expert Committee. If recommended, the KSUM CEO approves, and then you sign a grant agreement. Funds are released in milestone-based tranches.
Can a One Person Company (OPC) apply?
Yes, OPCs are explicitly allowed alongside Private Limited and LLP entities.
What if my startup already received a KSUM Scale-up Grant?
You are not eligible for this grant if you have already received a Scale-up Grant from KSUM.
Who is eligible to apply for Women/Transgender Productization Grant?
Women/Transgender Productization Grant is open to startups at the product stage. The programme is targeted at startups registered in Kerala. Applicants should be registered as private limited and llp.
Who offers Women/Transgender Productization Grant?
Women/Transgender Productization Grant is offered by Kerala Startup Mission, a government body. It is provided as non-dilutive funding.
How do I apply for Women/Transgender Productization Grant?
Apply directly through the official application link on this page. Review the eligibility criteria and prepare your startup documents before you begin.