The Uttar Pradesh government has launched a new initiative offering ₹1 lakh grants to entrepreneurs under the UP Startup Policy 2020. Aimed at fostering innovation, the scheme supports early-stage startups with funding, mentorship, and incubation. The program targets 10,000 startups, focusing on disruptive technologies, with applications open via the StartinUP portal.
UP’s ₹1 Lakh Boost for Budding Entrepreneurs
The Uttar Pradesh government has rolled out an ambitious initiative under the UP Startup Policy 2020, offering grants of up to ₹1 lakh to entrepreneurs to fuel the state’s burgeoning startup ecosystem. This financial assistance targets early-stage startups, particularly those working on disruptive technologies, to help them navigate the critical initial phases of ideation, prototyping, and market entry.
The scheme is part of the state’s broader vision to establish Uttar Pradesh as a leading startup hub in India. According to the Department of IT & Electronics, Government of Uttar Pradesh, the initiative aims to support at least 10,000 startups by providing a robust infrastructure and a conducive policy environment. The grants are designed to cover expenses related to proof of concept, prototype development, and initial operational costs, reducing the financial burden on new ventures.
Eligible startups must be registered with the Department for Promotion of Industry and Internal Trade (DPIIT) and comply with specific criteria outlined in the policy. These include having a business model with high growth potential and a focus on sectors such as artificial intelligence, biotechnology, agritech, healthcare, and clean energy. The policy also emphasizes inclusivity, encouraging applications from women, Scheduled Castes (SC), Scheduled Tribes (ST), and Other Backward Classes (OBC) entrepreneurs.
Applications for the ₹1 lakh grant can be submitted through the StartinUP portal (startinup.up.gov.in), which serves as a one-stop platform for startup registration, grievance redressal, and access to incubation support. The portal has already facilitated the registration of over 16,000 startups, as per the latest data from the Department of IT & Electronics. Selected startups will also gain access to mentorship programs, co-working spaces, and connections with investors through the state’s network of incubators and Centers of Excellence (CoEs).
The UP Startup Policy 2020 further includes provisions for additional incentives, such as tax breaks and subsidies, for startups demonstrating significant innovation or scalability. The state has set a target to establish 100 incubators, with at least one in each district, and develop one million square feet of incubation and acceleration space. As of September 2025, eight state-of-the-art CoEs have been established, focusing on emerging technologies like IoT, robotics, and renewable energy.
The initiative has already shown promising results. In 2024, Uttar Pradesh startups showcased their innovations at global platforms like Dubai, attracting significant investor interest. The state’s efforts align with its goal to rank among the top three in the Government of India’s “State’s Startup Ranking,” a testament to its commitment to fostering entrepreneurship.
Entrepreneurs are encouraged to leverage the StartinUP helpline (0522-4130303, Ext 302) for technical and legal support during the application process. The government has also introduced measures to ensure transparency, with a rigorous evaluation process involving industry experts to select deserving candidates.
Disclaimer: This article is based on information sourced from the official website of StartinUP, Department of IT & Electronics, Government of Uttar Pradesh, and related government announcements. For the latest updates and eligibility criteria, readers are advised to visit startinup.up.gov.in or contact the official helpline.