About this programme
A financial support scheme by Kerala Startup Mission (KSUM) designed to help women and transgender-led startups transition from prototype stage to a market-ready product. The scheme provides up to Rs 12 lakh for startups where women or transgender founders hold a majority (51%+) equity stake. The grant supports essential product development activities including technology strengthening, testing, validation, and market preparation. Disbursement is milestone-based, typically with 50% released initially and the balance upon submission of progress reports and audited utilisation certificates.
This is equity funding — the investor (often through a fund) takes a stake in your company in exchange for capital, rather than lending or granting money. You give up some ownership; you don’t repay it like a loan. The amount and form of support that actually apply to you depend on the programme’s rules and how your application is assessed — they are not fixed for every applicant.
Like most government programmes, it has its own eligibility conditions, documentation and application window, and these terms are revised from time to time. Because of that, it is worth confirming the current eligibility, amount and deadline on the official programme page before you invest time in applying.
How it works
Startups submit applications detailing their product development stage, fund utilization plan, and market entry strategy. Applications undergo initial screening by KSUM officials. Shortlisted startups present before an Expert Committee for evaluation based on Team strength, Product Innovation, Marketing strategy, Financial projections, and Grant Utilisation plan. Upon approval, the grant is released in milestone-based tranches: typically 50% initial disbursement followed by balance upon submission of progress report and audited utilisation certificate. Startups must demonstrate progress at each milestone for further tranche release.
Who can apply
Women and transgender-led startups in the Product Development stage with majority equity stake (51%+). Must be incorporated as Pvt Ltd/LLP/OPC with active MCA registration status. Must possess an innovative technology product and hold a valid KSUM Unique ID. Startups ready to convert their Minimum Viable Prototype (MVP) into a market-ready final product are prioritized.
How to apply
- Obtain KSUM Unique ID (register on KSUM portal)
- Ensure startup is incorporated as Pvt Ltd/LLP/OPC with active MCA status
- Prepare detailed application including product development plan, fund utilization, and market strategy
- Submit application with supporting documents through KSUM portal
- Present before Expert Committee (shortlisted startups)
- Receive approval and execute grant agreement
Documents you’ll typically need
- Certificate of Incorporation (Pvt Ltd/LLP/OPC)
- Active MCA registration status proof
- KSUM Unique ID
- Detailed product development plan and MVP details
- Fund utilization plan with breakup
- Market entry and go-to-market strategy
- Team credentials and relevant experience
- Audited financial statements (if applicable)
The exact checklist depends on the programme and your specifics.
Frequently asked
What is the minimum equity stake required for women/transgender founders?
Women or transgender founders must hold a majority stake of 51% or more in the company to be eligible for the Rs 12 lakh Women Productisation Grant.
How is the grant amount disbursed?
The grant is released in milestone-based tranches, typically with 50% disbursed initially and the balance upon submission of progress report and audited utilisation certificate.
What stage should the product be in to apply?
Startups should be in the Product Development stage with a Minimum Viable Prototype (MVP) ready, and prepared to convert it into a market-ready final product.
How are applications evaluated?
Shortlisted applications are evaluated by the Expert Committee based on Team strength, Product Innovation, Marketing strategy, Financial projections, and the proposed Grant Utilisation plan.
Reviewed July 2026. Government programmes change — confirm current eligibility, amounts and deadlines on the official programme page before you apply. CapEasy is a private consultancy and is not affiliated with any government authority.