Overview of the Startup Nagaland Policy

The Government of Nagaland, through the Department of Industries & Commerce, has launched the Startup Nagaland Policy to create a thriving entrepreneurial ecosystem. The policy aims to support local youth with innovative and scalable business ideas, turning them into successful enterprises that contribute to the state's economic growth. The program offers a range of incentives, from financial assistance and subsidies to mentorship and a platform to connect with investors, all of which are essential for a startup to grow and succeed.

Eligibility Criteria for Recognition

To be recognized under the Startup Nagaland policy and avail of its benefits, your business must meet the following criteria:

• The entity must be incorporated as a Private Limited Company, a Limited Liability Partnership (LLP), or a Registered Partnership Firm.
• The startup's date of incorporation should not be older than 10 years.
• Its annual turnover should not exceed INR 100 Crores in any financial year since incorporation.
• The business must be working towards the innovation, development, or improvement of products or services with a scalable business model.
• It must be an original entity, not formed by splitting or reconstructing an existing business.

Registration Process

The registration process is primarily online through the official Startup Nagaland portal. Follow these steps to get your startup recognized:

1. Register on the Portal: Visit the official Startup Nagaland portal at https://startupnagaland.in/ and create an account as a new user.
2. Complete the Profile: Fill out the detailed registration form with information about your startup, including its name, industry sector, date of incorporation, and a business plan.
3. Obtain DPIIT Recognition: Your startup must have a valid `DPIIT` (Department for Promotion of Industry and Internal Trade) recognition number. This is a mandatory prerequisite for availing state-level benefits. The portal guides you on this process.
4. Submit Documents: Upload a copy of your company's incorporation certificate, a brief about your innovative product/service, and other necessary documents.
5. Receive Recognition: Once your application is reviewed and approved, you will be issued a recognition certificate, making you eligible for all the benefits under the policy.

Key Benefits and Incentives

The policy provides significant support to registered startups. Some of the key benefits include:

• Seed Funding: A one-time seed grant of up to INR 1 lakh for the ideation stage and an Innovation Catalyst Grant (ICG) of up to INR 5 lakh for innovative products.
• Subsidies: Reimbursement of GST, digital up-gradation subsidy for purchasing hardware/software, power subsidies, and reimbursement for broadband connectivity.
• Intellectual Property Support: Reimbursement of 100% of the actual cost for domestic patent filing, up to a specified maximum limit.
• Market Access: Assistance for marketing and promotion costs and a platform to connect with the Nagaland Investor Network (NIN).
• Simplified Regulations: Exemption from inspections under certain labor laws for a period of five years.

Important Official Portals and Contact

• Startup Nagaland Portal: The central website for all startup-related services. https://startupnagaland.in/
• Department of Industries & Commerce: The nodal department for implementing the policy. https://industrynagaland.com/
• Startup India Portal: The national portal for DPIIT recognition. https://www.startupindia.gov.in/
• Startup Nagaland Contact:
  • Email: start.nagaland@gmail.com
  • Phone: 943600925 (Contact for queries)

It is highly recommended for all aspiring entrepreneurs to visit the official portals for the most up-to-date information and to initiate the registration process correctly.