KSUM - Marketing Support
The Marketing Support Scheme is an initiative of Kerala Startup Mission aimed at helping startups from Kerala promote their products and services in domestic and international markets. The scheme is currently operational and focuses on reducing the financial burden associated with marketing and branding activities. Through this scheme, eligible startups can receive reimbursement support for approved marketing expenses, enabling them to improve visibility, reach customers, and accelerate market adoption.
Key Features
- Support for Market Expansion: The scheme supports startups in expanding their market presence by providing financial assistance for approved marketing and promotional activities.
- Reimbursement-Based Assistance: Marketing expenses are supported on a reimbursement basis, subject to scheme guidelines and limits.
- Domestic and International Coverage: The scheme covers eligible marketing activities undertaken both within India and outside India.
- Startup-Focused Support: The assistance is targeted at recognised startups to help them overcome early-stage market entry and customer acquisition challenges.
- Structured Limits: Reimbursement is provided within prescribed financial limits based on the nature and scope of marketing activities.
Financial Assistance
Eligible Marketing Activities
- Digital marketing and online promotions
- Branding and advertising campaigns
- Participation in exhibitions, trade fairs, and expos
- Marketing collaterals and promotional materials
- Product promotion and customer outreach initiatives
Eligibility Criteria
Who can apply:
- Startups recognised within the Kerala startup ecosystem
- Startups actively engaged in product or service marketing
- Entities complying with scheme and documentation requirements
Who cannot apply:
- Entities not recognised as startups
- Startups without eligible marketing expenditure
- Applicants failing to provide valid expense proofs
Documents Required
- Startup recognition details
- Marketing plan or activity details
- Invoices and payment proofs for marketing expenses
- Bank statements reflecting expense payments
- Declaration and undertaking as prescribed
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 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 seeking structured guidance for marketing reimbursement claims.
Option 2: Apply through Program Process
- Plan and execute eligible marketing activities
- Compile invoices and payment proofs
- Submit reimbursement application
- Verification and assessment of claims
- Reimbursement released as per approved limits
Related Schemes
Frequently asked questions
Is the Marketing Support Scheme meant to help startups promote their products and services?
Yes. The scheme is designed to support startups in marketing and promoting their offerings to improve visibility and market reach.
Does the scheme support both domestic and international marketing activities?
Yes. Eligible marketing activities carried out within India as well as outside India are supported under the scheme.
Is the scheme focused on reducing marketing-related financial burden for startups?
Yes. The scheme provides reimbursement support to reduce the cost burden of approved marketing and promotional activities.
Is the financial assistance provided on a reimbursement basis?
Yes. Marketing expenses are reimbursed after the startup submits valid invoices and payment proofs.
Is prior execution of marketing activities required before applying?
Yes. Startups must first incur eligible marketing expenses and then apply for reimbursement.
Are all marketing expenses eligible for reimbursement?
No. Only marketing activities approved under the scheme guidelines are eligible for reimbursement.