Deadline: October 20, 2025
The Ministry of Electronics and Information Technology (MeitY) is implementing the Gen-Next Support for Innovative Startups (GENESIS) Scheme to discover, grow, and nurture technology startups over five years with a budgetary outlay of Rs. 490 Crore, focusing on strengthening the startup ecosystem in Tier-II and Tier-III cities across India through funding, mentorship, and ecosystem-building initiatives.
Focus Areas: Consolidation of startup-related schemes and assets of MeitY for greater efficiency, asset utilization and enhanced support for startups; Provide Tier-II/III cities focused funding to critically support Pilot/Investment, Early-stage and deep-tech startups; Strengthening Incubators, building stronger startup ecosystem via capacity building initiatives in Tier II/III cities.
The GENESIS Scheme aims to consolidate the various startup support mechanisms under MeitY to deliver enhanced efficiency and create a more impactful ecosystem for emerging ventures. Designed to empower innovators in smaller cities, the program provides targeted funding and structured incubation support to early-stage and deep-tech startups. It seeks to address key challenges faced by young entrepreneurs in Tier-II and Tier-III regions by offering access to resources, expert mentorship, and networks essential for scaling technology-based solutions.
The scheme is open to UG/PG students and DPIIT-registered startups that have completed two years of registration and operate in the ICT sector. Eligible startups must have at least 51% Indian promoter shareholding, a full-time CEO, and market-ready products seeking funds for business development and commercialization. This structure ensures that the supported startups possess both innovation potential and operational readiness to contribute effectively to India’s digital economy.
Over its five-year duration, GENESIS envisions supporting approximately 1,600 tech startups while impacting and consolidating over 10,000 startups across the country. The initiative emphasizes collaboration among startups, corporates, and government agencies to foster digitization that is inclusive, accessible, and affordable, thereby generating employment and strengthening regional economic growth.
To participate, applicants must first register for the program by submitting the required details and documentation. The evaluation team reviews applications and provides feedback within five business days, after which selected startups receive onboarding guidance to begin their incubation journey. Through this structured support system, GENESIS enables innovators to transform their ideas into market-ready ventures and contribute to the national vision of a digitally empowered startup ecosystem.
For more information, visit TBI-KIET.
