KSUM - Innovation Grant
The KSUM Innovation Grant is a flagship Kerala Innovation Grant Scheme implemented by Kerala Startup Mission (KSUM) to support early-stage innovation and product development in the state. The scheme is currently operational and provides non-dilutive funding to individual innovators, startups, and MSMEs. Through this Kerala Startup Mission Innovation Grant, the Government of Kerala aims to reduce the financial risk associated with idea validation, prototype creation, and early commercialisation, enabling founders to convert innovative ideas into viable products without giving up equity or control.
Key Features
- Non-Dilutive Government Grant: The scheme provides financial assistance as a grant and not as a loan or equity investment. Beneficiaries are not required to repay the amount, and KSUM does not take any ownership stake.
- Support Across Early Stages: The KSUM Grant for Startups supports idea stage funding, proof of concept funding, prototype development, MVP development funding, and early commercialisation grants.
- Focus on Innovation and R&D: The scheme encourages research, technology development, and innovative solutions, making it a relevant R&D grant in Kerala across sectors.
- Milestone-Based Disbursement: Grant amounts are released in phases linked to approved milestones, ensuring proper utilisation and progress tracking.
- Inclusive Founder Coverage: The scheme is open to student startups, women entrepreneurs, MSMEs, and tech startups that meet KSUM’s evaluation criteria.
Financial Assistance
Grant amounts and components are indicative and subject to revision based on the latest KSUM circulars.
Eligibility Criteria
Who can benefit:
- Individual innovators with innovative and scalable ideas
- Student startups from recognised institutions
- MSMEs and DPIIT-recognised startups
- Startups based in Kerala or willing to register and operate in Kerala
- Projects at idea stage, prototype stage, or early commercialisation stage
Who cannot benefit:
- Applicants seeking loan-based funding or equity investment
- Projects that have already received full government funding for the same scope
- Proposals without clear innovation, feasibility, or scalability
Documents Required
- Identity proof of founders
- Startup incorporation certificate or DPIIT recognition (if applicable)
- Detailed project proposal and budget
- Pitch deck or concept note
- Bank account details and cancelled cheque
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 founders seeking structured guidance and reduced compliance risk.
Option 2: Apply Online through KSUM Portal
Step 1: Register & Create Profile: Visit the official Kerala Startup Mission portal, create your login credentials, and complete your founder/startup profile with accurate details.
Step 2: Select KSUM Innovation Grant: Go to the active schemes section and choose the KSUM Innovation Grant from the available funding calls.
Step 3: Fill Application & Proposal Details: Provide complete information about your innovation, problem statement, solution, market opportunity, development stage (idea/prototype), and funding requirement.
Step 4: Upload Documents & Submit: Upload required documents such as project proposal, budget, pitch deck, identity proof, and startup registration certificate (if applicable). Review and submit the application to receive an acknowledgement number.
Step 5: Track Application & Respond to Evaluation: Track the status through your dashboard. If shortlisted, attend evaluation meetings or presentations and provide clarifications as requested by KSUM.
Related Schemes
Frequently asked questions
What is the objective of the KSUM Innovation Grant?
The objective is to support early-stage innovation in Kerala by providing non-dilutive funding for idea validation, prototype development, and early commercialisation of innovative products.
Is the KSUM Innovation Grant a loan or equity investment?
No. It is a government grant. There is no repayment obligation, and KSUM does not take any equity stake in the startup.
Who is eligible for the Kerala Innovation Grant Scheme?
Individual innovators, student startups, MSMEs, women entrepreneurs, and DPIIT-recognised startups operating in or willing to operate from Kerala are eligible, subject to scheme criteria.
What stages are supported under this scheme?
The scheme supports idea stage funding, proof of concept funding, prototype funding, MVP development funding, and early commercialisation stages.
What is the KSUM Innovation Grant amount?
Grant support is generally up to ₹2 lakh for idea-stage projects and up to ₹12 lakh for prototype or MVP development, depending on project evaluation.
How is the grant disbursed?
The grant is released in milestones after periodic review of progress and compliance with the approved project plan.