Karnataka Elevate 100: Empowering Top Start-ups with Funding and Mentorship
Learn about the Karnataka Elevate 100 program, an initiative by the Government of Karnataka to provide funding, mentorship, and support to early-stage start-ups
The Karnataka Elevate 100 program is a flagship initiative by the Department of Electronics, IT, BT and S&T, Government of Karnataka. Designed to identify and nurture the most innovative startups in the state, this program provides a platform for early-stage entrepreneurs to scale their businesses through non-equity grants and institutional support.
What is this scheme?
Elevate 100 is a comprehensive startup screening and funding program aimed at identifying the top 100 most innovative startups across Karnataka. Unlike traditional venture capital, the program offers support in the form of idea-to-concept grants, mentorship, legal advice, and networking opportunities without taking equity in the company. It focuses on various sectors including IT, Agriculture, Biotech, Clean-tech, and Social Impact.
Who is eligible?
- The startup must be registered in Karnataka for less than 10 years.
- The entity must be a private limited company or a limited liability partnership.
- The startup must have a unique product or service that solves a specific market problem.
- At least 51% shareholding should be held by Indian citizens (not OCIs/PIOs).
- Special preference is given to startups led by women, SC/ST entrepreneurs, and those from Tier-2 and Tier-3 cities.
- The annual turnover of the startup must not exceed INR 100 crore in any previous financial year.
How much money?
Funding up to INR 50 Lakhs as a non-equity grant, released in installments based on project milestones.
Documents needed
- Certificate of Incorporation or Registration.
- Detailed Project Report (DPR) or Business Proposal.
- Pitch Deck explaining the innovation and market potential.
- PAN and GST details of the startup.
- Identity and Address proofs of the founders.
- Digital signature of authorized representative.
- Caste certificate (if applying under SC/ST category).
How to apply (step by step)
- Visit the official Karnataka Startup Cell website.
- Register your startup profile on the portal.
- Fill out the Elevate 100 application form with business and financial details.
- Upload the required documents and pitch deck.
- Participate in the multi-stage screening process (Regional Pitching).
- Finalists present their ideas before a grand jury in Bengaluru.
- Selected startups undergo a due diligence process before fund disbursement.
Important dates
| Event | Date |
|---|---|
| Application Opening | As per latest notification, verify on official portal |
| Idea Pitching Sessions | Variable based on cohort schedule |
| Final Results Announcement | As per latest notification, verify on official portal |
Conclusion
The Karnataka Elevate 100 program remains one of the most successful startup acceleration schemes in India. By providing non-dilutive funding and expert guidance, it bridges the gap between a prototype and a market-ready product, cementing Karnataka's position as a global innovation hub.
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