The short version
- Only Private Limited companies, registered partnership firms and LLPs can be recognised.
- The entity must be under 10 years old, with turnover of no more than ₹100 crore in any year.
- Recognition gives lower patent and trademark fees and access to central schemes.
- The 80-IAC exemption needs a separate application after recognition.
What recognition means
DPIIT recognition confirms that the government treats your business as a startup: one working on a new or improved product, process or service, or with a scalable model.
Who qualifies
All of these must be true:
- Age: less than 10 years since incorporation or registration.
- Structure: Private Limited company, registered partnership firm or LLP. Proprietorships do not qualify.
- Turnover: no more than ₹100 crore in any financial year since incorporation.
- Purpose: working on innovation or improvement of products or processes, or a scalable model with potential for jobs or wealth creation.
- Not formed by splitting up or reconstructing an existing business.
What it gives you
Recognised startups can apply for the 80-IAC income tax exemption, pay lower government fees for patents and trademarks, self-certify under certain labour and environmental laws, and apply to schemes such as the Startup India Seed Fund.
This guide is general information, not legal or tax advice. Rules and fees change often, so check with an advisor before you file anything.