KSUM - Government as a Market Place
The KSUM Government as a Market Place, GAAM, is an initiative implemented by Kerala Startup Mission to help startups and innovation-driven MSMEs access Government departments as direct customers. The scheme is currently operational and focuses on enabling startups to participate in public procurement opportunities with relaxed conditions and faster access to Government markets.
For startups and MSMEs, entering Government procurement can be difficult due to tender requirements, prior experience criteria, and capital constraints. This scheme helps reduce those barriers by allowing direct procurement and startup-focused tender relaxations, enabling founders to commercialise products and scale through Government demand.
Key Features
- Relaxation in Public Tender Participation: Startups receive relaxations in tender fee, earnest money deposit, and prior experience or turnover requirements, making Government procurement more accessible.
- Direct Procurement Opportunity: Government departments are permitted to directly procure products from eligible startups up to a defined limit without a full tendering process, subject to technical approval.
- Limited Tender Process: Government departments, PSUs, and boards can procure startup products through a limited tender process restricted to registered startups, creating a level playing field.
- Government as Early Adopter: The programme helps Government departments adopt innovative startup products, creating real market opportunities and credibility for startups.
- Ecosystem-Driven Growth: The initiative encourages collaboration between startups and public institutions, strengthening B2G innovation adoption across the state.
Financial Assistance
Support structure and limits are indicative and subject to revision as per latest scheme guidelines.
Eligibility Criteria
Who can benefit:
- Startups legally registered and holding a valid KSUM unique ID
- Startups offering innovative products or solutions relevant to Government needs
- Startups capable of supplying products or services to Government departments
- Startups compliant with regulatory and operational requirements
Who cannot benefit:
- Businesses without valid startup registration
- Startups unable to meet technical evaluation requirements
- Entities with pending dues or compliance issues with Government authorities
- Businesses without products suitable for Government procurement
Documents Required
- Startup registration documents
- KSUM unique ID details
- Company incorporation certificate
- Product or solution details for procurement
- Technical documents or specifications
- Compliance declarations and supporting records
- Bank account details for contractual processing
Application Process for the Scheme
Option 1: Apply with Bullit, Recommended
Start instantly with our guided application support, where our team verifies eligibility, prepares documentation, and coordinates with the Industries Department on your behalf. Using our business loans and compliance calendar, you can track progress while focusing on project execution, we manage the application end-to-end.
Recommended for startups aiming to enter Government markets with structured guidance.
Option 2: Apply Through KSUM Portal
Step 1: Register and Create Startup Profile
Create your profile with complete startup details and ensure registration status is active.
Step 2: Identify Procurement Opportunity
Submit your startup product details for consideration under Government procurement opportunities.
Step 3: Technical Evaluation and Facilitation
Departments evaluate relevance and technical suitability of the startup offering.
Step 4: Procurement Process
Eligible products may be procured through direct purchase or limited tender mechanisms depending on value and requirements.
Step 5: Execution and Delivery
Complete project delivery as per agreed milestones and departmental requirements.
Frequently asked questions
What is the objective of this scheme?
The scheme aims to enable startups to supply products and solutions directly to Government departments through startup-friendly procurement processes.
What is the direct procurement limit under the scheme?
Government departments can directly procure startup products up to ₹50 lakh, subject to approval.
Who is eligible to participate?
Startups registered with KSUM and holding a valid unique ID can participate.
Do startups get tender relaxations?
Yes. Relaxations include tender fee, earnest money deposit, and prior experience requirements.
What is the limited tender process?
It allows Government bodies to invite bids restricted to registered startups, for procurement up to a specified value
How does this benefit startups?
It helps startups access Government customers, improve credibility, and generate early revenue through institutional adoption.