GENESIS Pilot Funding
Funding up to ₹40 Lakhs to startups from Tier-2 and Tier-3 cities for pilot projects with corporates, PSUs, and large enterprises.
Last Date: 31 October 2025
About the Program
GENESIS (Gen-Next Support for Innovative Startups) equity-based pilot Program is MeitY’s strategic initiative designed to bridge the gap between innovation and commercialization for startups in India’s emerging cities. This pilot funding program provides up to ₹40 Lakhs to qualifying startups, helping them validate and demonstrate their market-ready solutions through real-world pilot projects with corporates, PSUs, and large enterprises.
Deshpande Startups proudly partners with this initiative, bringing a decade of entrepreneurship expertise and extensive mentor networks to support your startup’s journey from prototype to market validation.
Ready to Validate Your Innovation?
Don’t miss this opportunity to demonstrate your solution with industry backing.
To know more, reach out to:
meitygenesis@dfmail.org
Eligibility Criteria
For Startups
- DPIIT registered startup
- Based in Tier-II or Tier-III city
- Working in ICT-related domains: IT & AI, electronic design & manufacturing, tech/deeptech products
- Must have MVP/working prototype ready for pilot implementation
- Viable business plan with full-time founder/co-founder
- Must have a Pilot work order/Purchase order from eligible corporate/PSU/unicorn
- Not previously supported under TIDE 2.0 (Scale up) or SAMRIDH schemes
For Corporates
- Minimum turnover of ₹75 crore+ in last audited financial year
- At least 5 years of operations
- Preference: Government of India/State govt./PSUs, Fortune 500 companies, large corporates (Indian/Global), unicorn startups
- GST certificate and an Audited balance sheet
- Approved PO/work order.
What's in it for you?
Access to Capital
Get up to ₹40 Lakhs equity-based funding for pilot project execution
Investor Readiness
Validate your market-ready solutions through structured pilot engagements with industry leaders and gain essential credibility.
Mentorship, Networking, & Peer learning
Get access to ESDM, 3D, Mechanical, and Electrical labs for your innovation journey.
Market Access & Scaling
Receive dedicated support from enabling partners, expert guidance, and access to curated networks of industry mentors and domain experts.
Important Note:
Startups that have already received benefits under the MeitY TIDE 2.0 Scale-Up or MeitY SAMRIDH programs are not eligible to apply under this scheme.
Frequently Asked Questions
Which funding sources qualify for matching?
Only investor funding counts toward the matching criteria. Government grants and schemes are excluded from the matching calculation.
Do I need the funds in my account already?
Yes, you must have actually received the institutional funds in your bank account. Commitments or signed agreements without fund transfer don’t qualify.
Can I apply if I have government grants?
You can apply, but government grants won’t count toward the matching fund calculation.
Must my startup be registered in a smaller city?
Yes, registration in a Tier-2 or Tier-3 city is mandatory for eligibility.