Chandigarh: The Chandigarh Administration officially launched the Chandigarh Startup Policy 2025 at a ceremony held at Punjab Raj Bhawan, aiming to build a robust startup ecosystem.
The startup policy aims to transform the Union Territory into a thriving hub for innovation, similar to cities like Pune, Bengaluru and Ahmedabad.
Speaking at the launch event, Gulab Chand Kataria, Governor of Punjab, stated that the policy reflects the vision of Prime Minister Narendra Modi, who has consistently promoted startup culture since 2016.Â
Targeting 200+ Startups in Five Years
The Chandigarh Startup Policy 2025 is designed to enable the creation and growth of over 200 startups over the next five years. It places a strong focus on fostering research, innovation, and entrepreneurship among youth, women, transgenders, and other underrepresented communities. With an annual budgetary allocation of Rs. 10 crore, the administration plans to ensure effective implementation and support for startups as well as incubators.
Structured Governance for Effective Execution
Two committees have been set up to oversee the policy’s execution:
- A High-Powered Committee (HPC) chaired by the Chief Secretary will take strategic decisions, monitor progress, and amend the policy as needed.
- The Policy Monitoring & Implementation Committee (PMIC), headed by the Secretary of Industries, will manage operational approvals, disbursement of funds, and performance tracking.
Comprehensive Financial Support for Startups
The policy includes a range of funding opportunities:
- Idea Grants: Rs. 2,00,000 for the top 20 startups and Rs. 1,00,000 for the next 50 selected through an annual competition.
- Seed Stage Grant: Up to Rs. 7,00,000, with an extra Rs. 2,00,000 for startups led by women or transgenders.
- Commercialisation Support: Up to Rs. 12 lakh per startup, with an additional Rs. 2,00,000 for women-led and transgender-led ventures.
- Rental Subsidy: Rs. 5,000 per month for 12 months for startups using approved co-working spaces.
- Certification Support: Reimbursement of 80% of the certification cost, up to Rs. 1,00,000.
- Patent Filing Support: 80% cost coverage, capped at Rs. 10,000.
Support for Incubators and Mentors
Public incubators are eligible for technology upgradation grants up to Rs. 30 lakh, while private incubators can receive up to Rs. 20 lakh. Additional financial aid includes a Rs. 7,50,000 annual sustenance allowance and Rs. 5,00,000 per annum for mentorship programs.
Non-Financial Incentives and Digital Integration
The policy also offers non-financial incentives such as:
- Free access to incubation spaces for one year
- Relaxed norms for public procurement
- Self-certification under six labour laws
- Subsidised participation in events like the India International Trade Fair
All services and applications will be accessible through the dedicated ‘Start-in-Chandigarh’ portal, ensuring streamlined operations and digital-first implementation.
