Karnataka IT Policy 2020 - 2025 - Marketing Cost Reimbursement

Key Features

• Reimbursement of 30% of actual marketing costs: The policy provides that the Government of Karnataka shall reimburse 30% of the actual cost incurred by the IT/ITeS entity for marketing activities  overseas or international marketing programmes. 
• Eligible costs include trade-show/exhibition expenses, travel, etc.: The cost base includes travel, participation fees, stall rental at international trade-shows/exhibitions, as specified by the policy. 
• Maximum cap of INR 5 lakh per year per entity: The reimbursement is subject to a maximum of ₹ 5 lakh per year for each eligible entity. 
• Applicable to IT/ITeS entities registered under the policy: To avail this incentive you must be an IT/ITeS entity registered with KITS under the Karnataka IT Policy 2020-25. 
• Requires registration and submission of proof of costs: The policy requires submission of application with proof of the incurred costs and compliance with registration/eligibility norms.

Financial Assistance

Eligibility Criteria

Who can apply:

• The entity must be an IT/ITeS company (software/services/BPM etc) registered and approved under the Karnataka IT Policy 2020-25. 
• The entity should be located in Karnataka, with its registered office/infrastructure as per policy. 
• The incurred marketing/travel costs should be for international marketing/trade show/participation . 

Who cannot apply:

• Entities not registered under the policy will not qualify for this incentive.
• Costs incurred for local/domestic marketing only may not qualify if the policy explicitly states “international marketing” .
• If the claim exceeds the cap of ₹ 5 lakh/year, the excess will not be reimbursed.
• Claims must comply with submission timelines, proof of costs and policy requirements .

Documents Required

• Certificate of incorporation/registration of company.
• Registration certificate as IT/ITeS entity under KITS/GoK.
• Zone location proof.
• Appointment letter/contract details of trade show/exhibition overseas.
• Invoices & receipts for expenses incurred  for the international marketing event.
• Bank statement showing payment of the above expenses.
• Participation certificate or proof of international trade show/exhibition attendance.
• Audited cost summary of the expenditure .
• Undertaking/affidavit  confirming compliance with policy terms

Application Process for the Scheme

Option 1: Apply with Bullit 

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: IT/ITeS teams seeking to streamline the reimbursement claim process and save time on documentation and follow-up.

Option 2: Via Department of Electronics, IT, BT & S&T / Single Window

1. Register your IT/ITeS entity under the Karnataka IT Policy 2020-2025 if not already registered.
2. Participate in an international trade show/exhibition and incur expenses .
3. After the event, compile all expense vouchers  and prepare the reimbursement application form provided by the nodal department.
4. Submit the application via the state Single Window portal or IT/ITeS policy application portal with all required attachments and proofs.
5. On verification and approval, the reimbursement (30% of eligible cost, capped at ₹ 5 lakhs) will be released to your bank account.

Option 3: Through Ecosystem Partner or Industry Association Facilitation

1. If you are a small startup or MSME-IT firm, you may partner with an industry association or trade body to help you identify eligible international trade show opportunities and assist with documentation.
2. Pre-event coordination: ensure your participation qualifies under the policy; obtain quote/invoice for stall, travel plan etc.
3. Post-event: ensure submission of reimbursement claim with proper proof and track via the nodal portal.