Overview of the Startup Maharashtra Policy

The **Startup Maharashtra** initiative is a key part of the state's comprehensive plan to foster a vibrant innovation and entrepreneurial ecosystem. Guided by the **Maharashtra State Innovative Startup Policy 2018**, the program aims to provide a conducive environment for startups to thrive. The **Maharashtra State Innovation Society (MSIS)** serves as the nodal agency for implementing this policy. The initiative offers a range of fiscal and non-fiscal benefits to eligible startups, encouraging job creation and wealth generation across the state.

Eligibility Criteria for Startup Recognition

To be considered a "Startup" under the policy and be eligible for benefits, your entity must meet specific criteria as a part of the central government's **DPIIT Recognition** and the state's policy:

• Type of Entity: Must be incorporated as a Private Limited Company, a Registered Partnership Firm, or a Limited Liability Partnership (LLP) in Maharashtra.
• Age of Entity: The period of existence and operations should not exceed 10 years from the date of incorporation.
• Annual Turnover: Should have an annual turnover not exceeding INR 100 crore for any of the financial years since its incorporation.
• Innovation: The business must be working towards innovation, development, or improvement of products, processes, or services with a scalable business model and high potential for employment generation or wealth creation.

Key Benefits of Registration

Registering as a startup under the government policy provides access to numerous advantages:

• Tax Benefits: Potential for exemptions on income tax for three consecutive years and capital gains tax, subject to specific conditions.
• Intellectual Property Rights (IPR): A significant rebate on patent and trademark filing fees.
• Simplified Compliance: The ability to self-certify compliance with certain labor and environmental laws for up to 7 years, minimizing regulatory hurdles.
• Government Tenders: Exemption from the "prior experience/turnover" criteria, making it easier to bid for government tenders.
• Funding Support: Access to a "fund of funds" and other government-backed financial schemes.
• Infrastructure & Mentorship: Access to a network of government-supported incubators, accelerators, and mentorship programs.

Online Application and Registration Process

The process to get your startup recognized involves a two-step process, starting with the central government portal and then the state-level portal.

1. DPIIT Recognition (Startup India Portal): First, register on the Startup India portal and apply for DPIIT (Department for Promotion of Industry and Internal Trade) recognition by providing your company details and a business plan.
2. MSIS Registration (State Portal): Once you have your DPIIT recognition certificate, visit the official **Maharashtra State Innovation Society (MSIS)** portal to complete your state-level registration. Here, you'll need to create a business profile and upload your DPIIT certificate and other relevant documents.

Important Official Portals and Resources

• Maharashtra State Innovation Society (MSIS): The nodal agency's official website for state-specific policies and registration. https://msins.in/
• Startup India Portal: The central government's portal for DPIIT recognition, a mandatory first step. https://www.startupindia.gov.in/
• Maharashtra Industrial Development Corporation (MIDC) Portal: The platform for industrial and business-related services in the state. https://maitri.mahaonline.gov.in/

For any queries regarding the policy or registration, you can contact the MSIS team via email at team@msins.in.