The Chandigarh Startup Policy 2025 has been framed to support the setup and growth of more than 200 startups in the next five years. It focuses on encouraging research, innovation, and entrepreneurship among youth, women, transgender persons, and other minority groups. With a provision of Rs 10 crore annually, the administration is dedicated to ensuring successful implementation and assistance to startups and incubators.

Structured Governance for Effective Implementation

To monitor the implementation of the policy, two committees have been formed:

A High-Powered Committee (HPC), headed by the Chief Secretary, will take strategic decisions, track progress, and revise the policy as required.

The Policy Monitoring & Implementation Committee (PMIC), headed by the Secretary of Industries, will deal with operational clearances, disbursement of funds, and monitoring of performance.

Comprehensive Financial Support for Startups

The policy details several funding options:

Idea Grants: Rs 2,00,000 for the top 20 startups and Rs 1,00,000 for the next 50, chosen through an annual competition.

Seed Stage Grant: Up to Rs 7,00,000, with a further Rs 2,00,000 for women-led and transgender-led startups.

Commercialization Support: Up to Rs  12 lakh per startup, with an additional Rs 2,00,000 for women-led and transgender-led startups.

Rental Subsidy: Rs  5,000 for 12 months for startups using approved co-working facilities.

Certification Support: 80% reimbursement of certification expenses, up to Rs 1,00,000.

Patent Filing Support: Reimbursement of 80% of expenses, up to Rs 10,000.

Incubator and Mentor Support

Public incubators are eligible for technology upgradation grants of Rs 30 lakh, whereas private incubators can receive Rs 20 lakh. Extra financial assistance consists of Rs 7,50,000 per annum sustenance allowance and Rs 5,00,000 annually for mentorship schemes. Non-Financial Incentives and Digital Integration

The policy also offers non-financial incentives in the form of:

Free one-year access to incubation facilities

Relaxed public procurement norms

Self-certification in six labor laws

Subsidized event participation such as India International Trade Fair

All the services and applications will be offered through the specialized 'Start-in-Chandigarh' portal, ensuring smooth functioning and a digital-first mindset.