Karnataka ELEVATE Minorities Scheme: Funding and Application Guide

Overview of the Scheme

The Government of Karnataka runs the Karnataka ELEVATE Minorities Scheme under its ELEVATE (Idea2PoC) programme to support eligible minority entrepreneurs and innovative startups. Implemented by the Department of Electronics, Information Technology, Biotechnology and Science & Technology through the Karnataka Innovation and Technology Society (KITS), the initiative offers financial assistance, mentoring, and subsidised incubation support.

Key Benefits and Support

Selected startups under the scheme can receive a one-time grant of up to ₹50 lakh. According to the scheme guidelines, these funds can be utilised for:

• Prototype development and product improvement
• Approved market development activities
• General business growth and expansion
• Mentoring and subsidised incubation support for eligible founders

Eligibility Criteria

To qualify for the 2026 application cycle, startups must fulfil several mandatory conditions:

• Registration: The business must be registered or incorporated in Karnataka as a Private Limited Company, OPC, LLP, registered Partnership Firm, or eligible Cooperative Society.
• Business Age: The entity must be no more than 10 years old from its incorporation date.
• Turnover Limit: The annual turnover must remain below ₹200 crore.
• Minority Ownership: At least 51% of the startup's equity must be owned by eligible minority-community directors or partners throughout the project period.
• Digital Minority Certificate: Qualifying directors or partners must hold a valid digital Minority Certificate issued by the Karnataka Revenue Department with an active RD Number.
• Recognised Communities: For the 2026 cycle, eligible communities listed include Muslims, Buddhists, Jains, Sikhs, and Parsis.

Required Documents

Applicants must prepare and upload specific documentation in prescribed formats:

• Certificate of Incorporation or registered partnership proof
• MOA, LLP Agreement, or Partnership Deed
• CA-certified revenue certificate for the financial year 2025–26
• Shareholding proof confirming 51% minority equity
• Digital Minority Certificate with RD Number
• Prescribed pitch deck detailing the business model, innovation, team, and budget
• Notarised startup affidavit on ₹100 e-stamp paper (PDF under 10 MB)
• Patent filing or grant certificates, if applicable

Selection Process

Applications undergo a multi-tier evaluation process based on a total of 100 marks across five parameters:

1. Application screening and eligibility verification
2. Pitch evaluation assessing innovation, business model, and team strength
3. In-person pitching for shortlisted candidates (minimum 60 marks required to qualify for the Grand Finale)
4. Grand Finale and final ratification by the ELEVATE Evaluation Committee

Application Procedure and Important Deadlines

Eligible entrepreneurs can apply online via the official Karnataka Startup portal by completing the following steps:

• Access the official ELEVATE portal and select the ELEVATE Minorities 2026 section.
• Register or log in using company and personal credentials.
• Fill out the online application form with accurate business details.
• Upload all required verification documents and submit the form before the deadline.

Deadline Note: For the 2026 call, applications are scheduled to close on 13 November 2026 at 5:00 PM IST.

Verification and Contact Information

Applicants should independently verify all guidelines, updates, and document formats directly on the official ELEVATE portal before submitting applications. For official queries, contact the Karnataka Startup Cell:

• Phone: 080-22231007
• Email: [email protected]
• Address: Karnataka Innovation and Technology Society (KITS), BKG Sapphire, No. 59, Railway Parallel Road, 4th Block, Kumara Park West, Sheshadripuram, Bengaluru – 560020, Karnataka, India.