The Unnati Scheme is a groundbreaking initiative by the Department of Social Welfare, Government of Karnataka. It is designed to create a comprehensive entrepreneurship platform for startups by addressing their end-to-end requirements—from ideation and validation to seed capital and market access. This scheme specifically focuses on empowering SC/ST entrepreneurs with innovative tech-based solutions.
Details
Under the Unnati Scheme, the government aims to invest a total of Rs 20 crore in startup funding, with a special emphasis on SC/ST entrepreneurs in the initial phase. Beneficiaries can receive financial support of up to Rs 50 lakhs to develop technology-based solutions. The scheme is structured in two categories:
- 1st Category: Targets SC/ST entrepreneurs pioneering in any domain.
- 2nd Category: Focuses on startups, irrespective of community, that offer innovative solutions to real-world challenges in areas such as health, education, sanitation, waste segregation, and mechanized scavenging.
Benefits
- Financial Support: SC/ST entrepreneurs can receive up to Rs 50 lakhs in funding.
- Focused Investment: The scheme dedicates a total of Rs 20 crore to support innovative startups.
- Dual Category Approach:
- Category 1: For SC/ST entrepreneurs with pioneering ideas.
- Category 2: For startups addressing critical social challenges.
- Market Access and Capacity Building: Beyond funding, the scheme facilitates market access and comprehensive support for startup growth.
Eligibility
To qualify for the Unnati Scheme, applicants must:
- Innovative Idea: Have a tech-based innovative idea or solution.
- Registration: Be registered as an entity (e.g., Pvt Ltd, OPC, LLP, Partnership, Proprietorship) in Karnataka.
- SC/ST Representation: Ensure that at least one member or co-founder belongs to the SC/ST community or holds a substantial share, and continues as part of the business for at least one year after receiving benefits.
- Ownership Stability: Maintain the original ownership terms without altering the SC/ST member’s stake to their disadvantage.
- Revenue Criteria: Have generated a turnover of less than INR 50 Crore since incorporation.
- Workforce Requirement: Employ at least 50% of the qualified workforce within Karnataka.
- Age of Startup:
- Technology-based companies: Less than 4 years from incorporation.
- Biotechnology-based companies: Less than 7 years from incorporation.
- Social Impact: For startups applying under social impact, there should be a clear justification of how the technological innovation benefits the Scheduled Caste community.
Exclusions
- Government employees are not eligible to apply.
- Beneficiaries cannot avail of benefits under any other scheme for the same purpose.
Application Process
Online Application Steps
- Visit the Official Website:
- Go to karnataka.gov.in.
- Login:
- Click on the Login option.
- Enter your valid email ID and mobile number, then click Send OTP.
- Enter the received OTP to log in.
- Complete the Form:
- Follow the instructions and fill in your personal details.
- Choose the Startup Funding for SC/ST application form.
- Fill in all required details and upload the necessary documents.
- Submit:
- Click the Submit button to complete your application.
Documents Required
- SC/ST Certificate of the candidate entrepreneur.
- Workforce Details: Proof showing at least 50% of the qualified workforce.
- Startup Registration Documents.
- Aadhaar Card Number.
- PAN Number of the founders.
- Startup Presentation Deck.
- Incorporation or Registration Certificate.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q1: What are the benefits of the Unnati Scheme?
A1: The scheme offers financial support of up to Rs 50 lakhs, dedicated investment of Rs 20 crore, market access, and capacity building for startups, with a special focus on SC/ST entrepreneurs.
Q2: Is there any provision for a loan associated with this scheme?
A2: The scheme provides direct financial support rather than traditional loans.
Q3: Will women be given priority under this scheme?
A3: While the scheme is focused on SC/ST entrepreneurs, any priority for women beneficiaries is determined as per the detailed guidelines provided by the government.
Q4: Is there any provision for training under this scheme?
A4: The scheme is designed to provide end-to-end support, which may include training and capacity-building initiatives along with financial assistance.
Q5: Who should apply for this scheme?
A5: Startups with innovative tech-based solutions registered in Karnataka, particularly those with SC/ST representation or operated by SC/ST entrepreneurs, should apply.
Sources and References
- Guidelines
- Official Scheme Guidelines