Karnataka IT Policy 2020 - 2025 - Patents Cost Reimbursement
This incentive is provided by the Karnataka Innovation & Technology Society under the Department of Electronics, IT, Biotechnology & Science & Technology, Government of Karnataka, as part of the Karnataka IT Policy 2020-25. The purpose of the “Patents Cost Reimbursement” incentive is to support eligible IT/ITeS entities in Karnataka to protect their intellectual property by reimbursing part of the cost of filing and prosecuting patents . For your business as an MSME or start-up, this means you can reduce the cost burden of patenting innovations and gain stronger IP protection.
Key Features
- Reimbursement for patent filing and prosecution costs: The scheme reimburses actual costs incurred by eligible entities for filing and prosecuting patent applications helping you cover legal, professional or governmental fees.
- Separate cap for domestic and international patents: For a domestic Indian patent awarded, the reimbursement is up to ₹ 2 lakh. For an international patent awarded, the reimbursement is up to ₹ 10 lakh.
- Two-stage reimbursement: The policy indicates that the reimbursement may be split: for example 75% after filing the patent and the remaining 25% after the patent is granted/awarded.
- Applicable to eligible IT/ITeS entities registered under the policy: To avail this incentive you must be registered with KITS as an IT/ITeS entity under the policy.
- Must satisfy policy registration and claim procedures: You must submit application with requisite documents (proof of patent filing/grant, invoice/fees paid, entity registration) and comply with timelines as given in the operational guidelines.
Financial Assistance
Eligibility Criteria
Who can apply:
- An entity engaged in IT/ITeS business in Karnataka, registered under Karnataka IT Policy 2020-25.
- The patent application must be filed during the policy period or as per operational guidelines - patents for “a single subject matter” qualify for international cap.
- The incurred costs must relate to filing and prosecuting the patent—government fees, professional/legal charges etc. .
Who cannot apply:
- Entities not registered under the policy will not qualify.
- Patents filed or awarded outside the policy timeline or not meeting the “IT/ITeS entity” classification may not qualify.
- Costs unrelated to patent filing/prosecution are not reimbursable.
- For international patents, only one subject matter is eligible under the ₹ 10 lakh cap - multiple patents on different subject matters may have limitations.
Documents Required
- Proof of registration under Karnataka IT Policy 2020-25 (IT/ITeS entity).
- Invoice/receipt for patent filing costs for domestic or international patent.
- Copy of patent filing acknowledgement and, once granted, patent grant certificate.
- Detailed statement of expenses incurred towards the patent application and prosecution.
- Completed application form for Patents Cost Reimbursement as specified by the nodal department.
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 firms seeking streamlined submission of IP reimbursement claims.
Option 2: Via Department of Electronics, IT, BT & S&T, Karnataka
- Ensure your entity is registered under Karnataka’s IT Policy 2020-2025.
- File or have filed a patent for eligible subject matter.
- Gather all invoices/receipts of filing/prosecution costs and proof of patent grant .
- Submit the reimbursement claim via the designated application form for Patents Cost Reimbursement, citing the policy incentive clause.
- Upon verification of expense, grant status and eligibility, reimbursement will be released in two instalments (75% after filing, 25% after grant).
Option 3: Through Incubator / Startup Ecosystem Partner
- If you are a startup or tech entity working via an incubator or ecosystem partner in Karnataka, coordinate with your incubator for IP claim support.
- Ensure all patents and cost documents are captured; incubator may assist submission and liaise with the nodal department.
- Track the reimbursement process via the policy portal and manage IP grant documentation for final claim.