Startup Registration in India – A Step-by-Step Guide

Step 1: Incorporate Your Business

The first step is to register your business as one of the following:

• Private Limited Company (PLC)

• Limited Liability Partnership (LLP)

• Partnership Firm

To incorporate your business:

1. Submit the application for registration to the Registrar of Companies (ROC) for PLCs and LLPs or the Registrar of Firms for Partnership Firms.

2. Provide all required documents and pay the necessary fees.

3. Obtain the Certificate of Incorporation or Partnership Registration Certificate.

Step 2: Register with Startup India

Once your business is incorporated, register it on the Startup India portal. The process is simple and online:

1. Visit the Startup India website.

2. Click on the ‘Register’ button.

3. Provide your details, including name, email, mobile number, and password.

4. Verify your email with the OTP received.

5. Complete your profile with startup details.

With your profile set up, you can access mentorship programs, funding options, government schemes, and other startup resources.

Step 3: Get DPIIT Recognition

The Department for Promotion of Industry and Internal Trade (DPIIT) recognition helps startups avail several benefits, including:

• Tax exemptions (for three consecutive years)

• Access to funding opportunities

• Self-certification for labor and environmental laws

• Easier public procurement norms

• Fast-track patent application and intellectual property resources

To apply:

1. Log in to the Startup India portal.

2. Click on ‘Apply for DPIIT Recognition’.

3. Fill out the Startup Recognition Form on the National Single Window System (NSWS).

Step 4: Submit the Recognition Application

Complete the Startup Recognition Form by providing:

• Business details

• Office address

• Information about directors/partners

• Startup activities and self-certification

Once submitted, your application will be reviewed for DPIIT recognition.

Step 5: Submit Required Documents

You need to upload the following documents:

• Incorporation/Registration Certificate

• Proof of funding (if any)

• Authorization letter for the company representative

• Pitch deck, website link, or video (for early-stage startups)

• Patent or trademark details (if applicable)

• Awards and recognition certificates (if any)

• Company PAN number

Step 6: Receive Your Recognition Number

After submission, you will receive a recognition number. The certificate of recognition is issued within two days upon successful verification of documents.

Step 7: Additional Benefits for Startups

1. Patents and Trademarks

   • Startups can apply for patents and trademarks with an 80% reduction in government fees.

2. Government Funding Support

   • The Startup India Seed Fund Scheme (SISFS) offers financial assistance to startups.

   • The Fund of Funds for Startups (FFS), managed by SIDBI, co-invests with venture funds.

3. Self-Certification Under Labor and Environmental Laws

   • Startups can self-certify under 6 labor laws and 3 environmental laws for 3-5 years.

4. Tax Exemptions

   • Eligible startups can claim income tax exemptions for three years.

   • Exemption on capital gains tax and investments above fair market value.