Marketing Incentives: Karnataka Startup Policy (International Marketing Reimbursement)

The Government of Karnataka, through the Karnataka Biotechnology and Information Technology Services (KBITS), provides financial incentives for startups engaged in international marketing. KBITS acts as the state’s nodal agency for the IT, BT, and startup sectors. Its mandate is to build a competitive startup ecosystem and help local innovations gain global visibility. The scheme reimburses eligible expenses for participation in global trade shows, international conferences, and related promotional activities, easing entry into new markets.

Eligible startups can claim 30% of their actual international marketing costs, up to Rs. 5 Lakhs per company per year. Covered expenses include travel for trade shows, marketing and sales promotion initiatives, digital and print publications for brand building, and subscriptions to market research materials. The support also covers economy air travel and a daily allowance for lodging, food, and local commute during international travel, capped at ₹9,300 per day.

Claims are processed on a half-yearly basis within the financial year and must be submitted within six months of incurring the expense. Preference is given to applications submitted by woman members of the startup, with the aim of promoting diversity and inclusion in the state’s startup ecosystem.

- After a complete application is submitted, the Karnataka Startup Cell reviews and validates the submitted details. - The Nodal Officer then forwards the application to the Managing Director of KBITS for approval. - Once sanctioned, the applicant becomes eligible for reimbursement within three months of the application's receipt. - The Managing Director of KBITS holds the final authority on the decision.

Applications are checked by the Karnataka Startup Cell as they come in. Once verified, the Nodal Officer forwards the proposal to the Managing Director of KBITS, who grants the final approval. Reimbursements, once sanctioned, apply to international marketing costs borne by DPIIT-registered startups based in Karnataka.