DPIIT recognition is available to Private Limited Companies, LLPs and registered Partnership Firms under 10 years old with turnover below ₹100 crore that work on innovation or improvement. There is no government fee. Recognition unlocks Startup India benefits such as eligibility for the Section 80-IAC tax exemption, faster and cheaper patents, self-certification under certain laws, and state schemes like the MP Startup Policy 2025.
DPIIT recognition — the “startup certificate” — is issued by the Department for Promotion of Industry and Internal Trade under the Startup India initiative. For startups in Madhya Pradesh it is also the first step to the MP Startup Policy 2025 benefits.
Eligibility
- Private Limited Company, LLP or registered Partnership Firm
- Less than 10 years since incorporation
- Turnover below ₹100 crore in every financial year
- Working on innovation, development or improvement of a product, service or process, or a scalable business model
- Not formed by splitting up or restructuring an existing business
Key benefits
- Eligibility to apply for the income tax holiday under Section 80-IAC (subject to separate approval)
- Faster patent examination and rebates on patent and trademark fees
- Self-certification under certain labour and environment laws
- Easier participation in public procurement
- Access to state startup schemes, including seed funds and reimbursements
Documents
- Certificate of Incorporation / registration and PAN of the entity
- Details of directors or partners
- A clear write-up of how the business is innovative or scalable
- Pitch deck, website or product proof (strongly recommended)
Process
- Create an account on the Startup India portal.
- Fill the recognition form with entity, team and business details.
- Write the innovation and scalability description — this is where most rejections happen.
- Submit and answer any clarification from DPIIT.
Fee and timeline
The government charges no fee. Recognition usually comes within a few weeks of a complete application. Founder Salahkar prepares the write-up, files and follows up for ₹4,999 — see Startup India registration.
Frequently asked questions
Is there a government fee for DPIIT recognition?
No. DPIIT recognition is free on the Startup India portal. Consultants charge for preparing and filing the application.
Can a proprietorship get DPIIT recognition?
No. Only Private Limited Companies, LLPs and registered Partnership Firms are eligible.
Why are DPIIT applications rejected?
Most rejections happen because the innovation or scalability description is unclear. A well-written description with a pitch deck or website improves the chances.