Rajasthan iStart Seed Grant and Voucher Programme: Comprehensive Guide for Entrepreneurs

The Rajasthan iStart initiative is the flagship program of the Department of Information Technology and Communication (DoIT&C), Government of Rajasthan. Specifically designed to foster a robust startup ecosystem, the Seed Grant and Voucher programme provides initial financial impetus and operational support to early-stage entrepreneurs, enabling them to transition from a prototype to a scalable market-ready business.

What is this scheme?

The iStart Seed Grant is an equity-free financial assistance program for startups registered under the iStart Rajasthan framework. It provides funding across three main categories: Sustainance Allowance, Seed Grant for MVP development, and Vouchers to cover legal, marketing, and technical operational costs. The program uses the QRate ranking system to determine the level of support and funding eligibility for each startup.

Who is eligible?

• The startup must be registered in Rajasthan or have a significant presence in the state.
• Must be registered with the iStart Rajasthan portal and have a valid QRate scorecard.
• The startup should be within the first ten years of its incorporation.
• Annual turnover must not exceed INR 100 crore for any of the previous financial years.
• The entity must be working towards innovation, development, or improvement of products or processes.
• Startups must be registered as a Private Limited Company, LLP, or Registered Partnership Firm.

How much money?

As per latest notification, verify on official portal. Typically ranges from monthly sustenance of INR 20,000 to seed grants of up to INR 5-20 Lakhs depending on the startup category and QRate rank.

Documents needed

1. Certificate of Incorporation or Registration Certificate
2. Founder(s) Aadhaar and Address Proof
3. iStart Registration Number
4. QRate Ranking Scorecard
5. Detailed Project Report (DPR)
6. Pitch Deck
7. Bank Account Details (linked to the startup entity)

How to apply (step by step)

1. Register your startup on the official iStart Rajasthan portal.
2. Complete the profile and apply for the QRate assessment.
3. Undergo the QRate ranking process based on your business model and stage.
4. Navigate to the 'Funding and Grants' section on the dashboard.
5. Select the 'Seed Grant' or 'Voucher' application form.
6. Submit your business proposal, financial projections, and required documents.
7. Present your startup before the Evaluation Committee if shortlisted.
8. Upon approval, the grant or vibration funds are disbursed in installments based on milestones.

Important dates

Conclusion

The Rajasthan iStart Seed Grant and Voucher programme stands as one of India's most aggressive state-level support systems for new businesses. By eliminating the requirement for equity in exchange for initial funding, it allows founders to retain control while benefiting from the state's resources. For those looking to build the next unicorn from Rajasthan, this is an essential first step.