GENESIS Matching Fund
Contribution of up to ₹50 Lakhs to startups from Tier-2 and Tier-3 cities that have raised capital from investors.
Last Date: 30 October 2025
About the Program
GENESIS (Gen-Next Support for Innovative Startups) is MeitY’s flagship initiative designed to boost startup growth in India’s emerging cities. This matching fund program provides up to ₹50 Lakhs to qualifying startups, helping bridge the funding gap and accelerate their journey from idea to market success.
Deshpande Startups proudly partners with this initiative, bringing a decade of entrepreneurship expertise and extensive mentor networks to support your startup’s growth trajectory.
Ready to Scale Your Startup?
Don’t miss this opportunity to accelerate your growth with government backing. Our team at Deshpande Startups is ready to guide you through the application process and connect you with the right resources.
To know more, reach out to:
meitygenesis@dfmail.org
Eligibility Criteria
- Registered Indian Private Limited Company (min. 51% Indian ownership)
- Based in Tier-II or Tier-III city
- Valid DPIIT certificate holder
- Tech-based product/software in Deep-tech, AI/ML, Cybersecurity, IoT, Blockchain, Fintech, Ed-tech, or Health-tech
- Market-ready product (ideally revenue-generating)
- Preference to startups with granted patents
- No legal disputes
- 1:1 equity matching grant up to ₹50 Lakhs, based on private (non-government) capital raised
- Not previously supported under TIDE 2.0 (Scale up) or Samridh schemes
What's in it for you?
Access to Capital
Get up to ₹50 Lakhs ,matching private investments (excluding government grants).
Investor Readiness
Participate in a structured acceleration program covering design thinking, go-to-market strategy, unit economics, compliance, fundraising, and demo-day preparation.
Mentorship, Networking, & Peer learning
Gain one-on-one expert guidance, connect with domain mentors, and access curated networks of VCs, angel investors, corporates.
Market Access & Scaling
Get exposure to markets ,build customer linkages access to community of fellow founders, and receive support for pilots and commercialization.
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.