Intellectual Property Rights (IPR) scheme
The Intellectual Property Rights Scheme is operated by the Ministry of Micro, Small and Medium Enterprises, Government of India. It was introduced to help MSMEs understand, protect and manage their intellectual property such as patents, trademarks, designs and geographical indications. The scheme aims to enhance innovation, ensure competitive advantage and reduce the risk of imitation by offering financial assistance and awareness support. MSMEs, startups and entrepreneurs can benefit by securing their ideas, technologies and brands through subsidised registration costs, training and expert guidance.
Key Features
- Reimbursement for patent, trademark and design registration: MSMEs receive financial support for filing and registering patents, trademarks and industrial designs, helping them protect their innovation at minimal cost.
- Financial support for international patent filing: The scheme offers reimbursement for PCT and foreign patent applications, helping MSMEs expand protection to global markets.
- Support for awareness programmes and seminars: Government-approved institutions organise workshops, training sessions and awareness programmes to educate MSMEs on the importance of IPR and filing procedures.
- Assistance for IP facilitation centres: The scheme supports establishment of IPFCs (IP Facilitation Centres) that provide guidance and handholding services such as prior-art search, drafting and filing assistance.
- Consultancy and professional support: MSMEs can access experts for patent drafting, legal guidance, trademark filing, and IP portfolio management at subsidised rates.
- Capacity building for strategic use of IP: The focus is on helping MSMEs understand the commercial value of IPR, manage assets better, and integrate IP strategy into business growth.
Financial Assistance
Eligibility Criteria
Who can apply:
- Micro, Small and Medium Enterprises (MSME) must be registered (Udyam Registration recommended)
- Registered startups recognised under DPIIT
- MSME clusters, industry associations and chambers
- Technical institutes, R&D organisations and incubators (for awareness activities)
- Patent filing (domestic and international)
- Registration of trademarks, designs and GIs
- Awareness programmes and workshops
- Consultancy, search and drafting services
- Capacity-building programmes
- Only fresh applications are eligible for reimbursement
- Claims must include proof of payment and filing
- All filings must be completed through authorised IP professionals
Documents Required
- Udyam Registration Certificate
- Completed application form
- Invoice and proof of payments made to IP professionals or IP office
- Copy of patent/trademark/design filing receipt
- Copy of examination report (if applicable)
- Bank details and cancelled cheque
- Identity and address proof of authorised signatory
- IP search/drafting documents (if reimbursement is claimed)
Application Process for the Scheme
Option 1: Apply with Bullit (Recommended)
Click here to start with guided support. Our team verifies eligibility, compiles documents, and handles application & follow-ups on your behalf. You can monitor progress while focusing on operations.
Recommended for: MSMEs new to the patent/trademark filing process.
Option 2: Apply Through the MSME Innovative Scheme Portal
- Visit the official MSME Innovative Scheme Portal.
- Register using Udyam details and create your profile.
- Select the “IPR Component” under the scheme.
- Upload application form, invoices, and IP filing proof.
- Submit required supporting documents for reimbursement.
- Track application status through the portal.
Option 3: Apply via IP Facilitation Centres (IPFCs)
- Visit an MSME-recognised IP Facilitation Centre.
- Submit your innovation details and filing requirements.
- Centre assists in drafting, search, filing, and documentation.
- Apply for reimbursement through the IPFC or MSME portal.