{"id":1024,"date":"2026-01-14T22:15:41","date_gmt":"2026-01-14T16:45:41","guid":{"rendered":"https:\/\/vizttax.com\/insights\/?p=1024"},"modified":"2026-03-20T15:57:22","modified_gmt":"2026-03-20T10:27:22","slug":"startup-india-seed-fund-scheme","status":"publish","type":"post","link":"https:\/\/vizttax.com\/insights\/startup-india-seed-fund-scheme\/","title":{"rendered":"Startup India Seed Fund Scheme"},"content":{"rendered":"\t\t
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\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\"Startup\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t
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Startup India Seed Fund Scheme (SISFS): Legal Framework, Funding Structure & Practical Insights for Early-Stage Startups<\/h2>\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t
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Introduction: Why Seed Funding Needs Government Intervention<\/h2>\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t
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In India\u2019s startup ecosystem, the most fragile phase is not expansion or scaling \u2014 it is ideation and validation<\/strong>. At this stage, startups have innovation, intent, and capability, but lack risk capital<\/strong>.<\/p>

Traditional lenders avoid unproven models. Angel investors expect early traction. Venture capital waits for revenue visibility. This creates a funding vacuum at the seed stage<\/strong>.<\/p>

To address this structural gap, the Government of India introduced the Startup India Seed Fund Scheme (SISFS)<\/strong><\/a> \u2014 a targeted policy intervention aimed at converting ideas into investible startups<\/strong>.<\/p>\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t

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Legal & Policy Background of SISFS<\/h2>\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t
\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\"Startup\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t
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Statutory Authority<\/h2>\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t
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The scheme is launched and governed by:<\/p>\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t

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  • \n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<\/path><\/svg>\t\t\t\t\t\t<\/span>\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\tDepartment for Promotion of Industry and Internal Trade (DPIIT)<\/span>\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<\/li>\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t
  • \n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<\/path><\/svg>\t\t\t\t\t\t<\/span>\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\tMinistry of Commerce & Industry, Government of India<\/span>\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<\/li>\n\t\t\t\t\t\t<\/ul>\n\t\t\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t
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    Governing Document<\/h2>\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t
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    • \n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<\/path><\/svg>\t\t\t\t\t\t<\/span>\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\tStartup India Seed Fund Scheme (SISFS) Guidelines, 2021<\/span>\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<\/li>\n\t\t\t\t\t\t<\/ul>\n\t\t\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t
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      • \n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<\/path><\/svg>\t\t\t\t\t\t<\/span>\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\tApproved by the Empowered Committee constituted by DPIIT<\/b><\/span>\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<\/li>\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t
      • \n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<\/path><\/svg>\t\t\t\t\t\t<\/span>\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\tImplemented through Startup India<\/b> platform<\/span>\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<\/li>\n\t\t\t\t\t\t<\/ul>\n\t\t\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t
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        The scheme operates under executive policy powers of the Central Government and does not require separate legislation, similar to other startup incentive schemes.<\/p><\/div><\/div>\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t

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        Objective of Startup India Seed Fund Scheme<\/h2>\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t
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        As per official guidelines, the objectives are to:<\/p>\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t

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        • Provide financial assistance<\/strong> to startups at early stages<\/p><\/li>

        • Enable Proof of Concept (PoC)<\/strong>, prototype development, and market entry<\/p><\/li>

        • Reduce dependency on informal funding or premature equity dilution<\/strong><\/p><\/li>

        • Promote innovation-led entrepreneurship across India<\/strong>, including Tier-2 and Tier-3 cities<\/p><\/li><\/ul>\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t

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          Who Can Apply Under SISFS? (Eligibility Conditions)<\/h2>\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t
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          As per Clause 6 of SISFS Guidelines<\/strong>, a startup must satisfy all<\/strong> of the following:<\/p>\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t

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          1. DPIIT Recognition (Mandatory)<\/h2>\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t
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          • \n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<\/path><\/svg>\t\t\t\t\t\t<\/span>\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\tStartup must be recognised under Section 2(92) of the Companies Act, 2013 read with DPIIT notification<\/b><\/span>\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<\/li>\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t
          • \n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<\/path><\/svg>\t\t\t\t\t\t<\/span>\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\tRecognition through Startup India portal<\/b><\/span>\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<\/li>\n\t\t\t\t\t\t<\/ul>\n\t\t\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t
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            2. Age of Startup<\/h2>\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t
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            • \n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<\/path><\/svg>\t\t\t\t\t\t<\/span>\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\tIncorporated not more than 2 years<\/b> at the time of application<\/span>\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<\/li>\n\t\t\t\t\t\t<\/ul>\n\t\t\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t
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              3. Startup must not have received:<\/h2>\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t
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              Startup must:<\/p>\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t

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              • \n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<\/path><\/svg>\t\t\t\t\t\t<\/span>\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\tBe innovation-driven<\/b><\/span>\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<\/li>\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t
              • \n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<\/path><\/svg>\t\t\t\t\t\t<\/span>\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\tUse technology or scalable business model<\/b><\/span>\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<\/li>\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t
              • \n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<\/path><\/svg>\t\t\t\t\t\t<\/span>\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\tHave potential for employment generation or wealth creation<\/b><\/span>\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<\/li>\n\t\t\t\t\t\t<\/ul>\n\t\t\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t
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                4. Nature of Business<\/h2>\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t
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                Startup must not have received<\/strong>:<\/p>\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t

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                • More than \u20b910 lakh<\/strong> as monetary support from any Central or State Government scheme<\/strong>, excluding:
                  • Prize money<\/li>
                  • Hackathon grants<\/li>
                  • Prototype challenge awards<\/li><\/ul><\/li><\/ul>\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t
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                    This ensures SISFS supports first-time seed-stage startups only.<\/p><\/div><\/div>\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t

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                    Funding Structure Under SISFS<\/h2>\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t
                    \n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\"SISFS\"\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t
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                    The scheme provides two distinct forms of financial support<\/strong>, each governed by separate conditions.<\/p>\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t

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                    1. Grant Support \u2013 Up to \u20b920 Lakhs<\/h2>\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t
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                    Legal Basis<\/h2>\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t
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                    • \n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<\/path><\/svg>\t\t\t\t\t\t<\/span>\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\tClause 8(a) of SISFS Guidelines<\/span>\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<\/li>\n\t\t\t\t\t\t<\/ul>\n\t\t\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t
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                      Purpose of Grant<\/h2>\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t
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                      Grant funding can be used for:<\/p>\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t

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                      • \n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<\/path><\/svg>\t\t\t\t\t\t<\/span>\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\tProof of Concept (PoC)<\/span>\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<\/li>\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t
                      • \n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<\/path><\/svg>\t\t\t\t\t\t<\/span>\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\tPrototype development<\/span>\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<\/li>\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t
                      • \n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<\/path><\/svg>\t\t\t\t\t\t<\/span>\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\tProduct testing and trials<\/span>\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<\/li>\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t
                      • \n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<\/path><\/svg>\t\t\t\t\t\t<\/span>\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\tMarket validation<\/span>\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<\/li>\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t
                      • \n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<\/path><\/svg>\t\t\t\t\t\t<\/span>\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\tMVP development<\/span>\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<\/li>\n\t\t\t\t\t\t<\/ul>\n\t\t\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t
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                        Key Conditions<\/h2>\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t
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                        • \n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<\/path><\/svg>\t\t\t\t\t\t<\/span>\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\tDisbursed only through selected incubators<\/b><\/span>\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<\/li>\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t
                        • \n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<\/path><\/svg>\t\t\t\t\t\t<\/span>\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\tReleased in milestone-based tranches<\/b><\/span>\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<\/li>\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t
                        • \n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<\/path><\/svg>\t\t\t\t\t\t<\/span>\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\tNo equity dilution<\/b><\/span>\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<\/li>\n\t\t\t\t\t\t<\/ul>\n\t\t\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t
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                          • Grant cannot be used for:
                            • Office rent (except incubator facilities)<\/li>
                            • Founder salary beyond approved norms<\/li>
                            • Marketing at scale<\/li><\/ul><\/li><\/ul>\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t
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                              This funding is non-repayable, subject to milestone compliance.<\/p><\/div><\/div>\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t

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                              2. Investment Support \u2013 Up to \u20b950 Lakhs<\/h2>\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t
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                              Legal Basis<\/h2>\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t
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                              • \n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<\/path><\/svg>\t\t\t\t\t\t<\/span>\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\tClause 8(b) of SISFS Guidelines<\/span>\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<\/li>\n\t\t\t\t\t\t<\/ul>\n\t\t\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t
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                                Mode of Investment<\/h2>\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t
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                                Provided through:<\/p>\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t

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                                • \n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<\/path><\/svg>\t\t\t\t\t\t<\/span>\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\tConvertible debentures<\/span>\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<\/li>\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t
                                • \n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<\/path><\/svg>\t\t\t\t\t\t<\/span>\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\tDebt<\/span>\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<\/li>\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t
                                • \n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<\/path><\/svg>\t\t\t\t\t\t<\/span>\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\tDebt-linked instruments<\/span>\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<\/li>\n\t\t\t\t\t\t<\/ul>\n\t\t\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t
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                                  Purpose<\/h2>\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t
                                  \n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t
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                                  • \n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<\/path><\/svg>\t\t\t\t\t\t<\/span>\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\tCommercialisation<\/span>\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<\/li>\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t
                                  • \n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<\/path><\/svg>\t\t\t\t\t\t<\/span>\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\tMarket entry<\/span>\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<\/li>\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t
                                  • \n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<\/path><\/svg>\t\t\t\t\t\t<\/span>\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\tEarly scaling<\/span>\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<\/li>\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t
                                  • \n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<\/path><\/svg>\t\t\t\t\t\t<\/span>\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\tWorking capital for validated products<\/span>\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<\/li>\n\t\t\t\t\t\t<\/ul>\n\t\t\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t
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                                    Key Features<\/h2>\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t
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                                    • Investment decision taken by incubator\u2019s Investment Committee<\/strong><\/li>
                                    • Valuation aligned with market norms<\/strong><\/li>
                                    • Startup can receive:
                                        • Grant once<\/li>
                                        • Investment once<\/li>
                                        • Or both (subject to approval)<\/li><\/ul><\/li><\/ul><\/li><\/ul>\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t
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                                          This ensures capital discipline while keeping founders protected from early dilution.<\/p><\/div><\/div>\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t

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                                          Role of Incubators Under SISFS (Critical Governance Layer)<\/h2>\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t
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                                          Unlike many schemes, funds are not directly released to startups<\/strong>.<\/p>

                                          Incubators are:<\/strong><\/p>

                                          • Selected by DPIIT through a competitive process<\/li>
                                          • Registered legal entities (Section 8 companies, trusts, societies, universities, etc.)<\/li><\/ul>

                                            Responsibilities of Incubators<\/strong><\/p>

                                            As per Clause 7:<\/p>

                                            • Evaluate startup applications<\/li>
                                            • Conduct presentations & due diligence<\/li>
                                            • Disburse funds<\/li>
                                            • Monitor milestones<\/li>
                                            • Provide:
                                                • Mentorship<\/li>
                                                • Legal & compliance guidance<\/li>
                                                • Investor access<\/li>
                                                • Ecosystem support<\/li><\/ul><\/li><\/ul><\/li><\/ul>\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t
                                                  \n\t\t\t\t\t

                                                  This structure ensures accountability, governance, and business mentoring, not just funding.<\/p><\/div><\/div>\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t

                                                  \n\t\t\t\t\t

                                                  Application Process (Step-by-Step)<\/h2>\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t
                                                  \n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\"SISFS\"\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t
                                                  \n\t\t\t\t\t

                                                  Step 1: Online Application<\/h2>\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t
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                                                  • \n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<\/path><\/svg>\t\t\t\t\t\t<\/span>\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\tApply through Startup India Seed Fund portal<\/b><\/span>\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<\/li>\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t
                                                  • \n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<\/path><\/svg>\t\t\t\t\t\t<\/span>\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\tChoose up to 3 incubators<\/b><\/span>\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<\/li>\n\t\t\t\t\t\t<\/ul>\n\t\t\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t
                                                    \n\t\t\t\t\t

                                                    Step 2: Incubator Screening<\/h2>\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t
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                                                    • \n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<\/path><\/svg>\t\t\t\t\t\t<\/span>\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\tDocument review<\/span>\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<\/li>\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t
                                                    • \n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<\/path><\/svg>\t\t\t\t\t\t<\/span>\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\tPitch presentation<\/span>\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<\/li>\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t
                                                    • \n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<\/path><\/svg>\t\t\t\t\t\t<\/span>\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\tTechnical & commercial evaluation<\/span>\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<\/li>\n\t\t\t\t\t\t<\/ul>\n\t\t\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t
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                                                      Step 3: Approval & Agreement<\/h2>\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t
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                                                      • \n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<\/path><\/svg>\t\t\t\t\t\t<\/span>\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\tExecution of grant\/investment agreement<\/span>\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<\/li>\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t
                                                      • \n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<\/path><\/svg>\t\t\t\t\t\t<\/span>\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\tMilestone definition<\/span>\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<\/li>\n\t\t\t\t\t\t<\/ul>\n\t\t\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t
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                                                        Step 4: Fund Disbursement<\/h2>\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t
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                                                        • \n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<\/path><\/svg>\t\t\t\t\t\t<\/span>\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\tReleased in tranches<\/span>\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<\/li>\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t
                                                        • \n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<\/path><\/svg>\t\t\t\t\t\t<\/span>\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\tSubject to milestone achievement<\/span>\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<\/li>\n\t\t\t\t\t\t<\/ul>\n\t\t\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t
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                                                          Sector Coverage<\/h2>\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t
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                                                          SISFS is sector-agnostic<\/strong>, covering:<\/p>\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t

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                                                          • \n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<\/path><\/svg>\t\t\t\t\t\t<\/span>\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\tAgriTech<\/span>\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<\/li>\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t
                                                          • \n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<\/path><\/svg>\t\t\t\t\t\t<\/span>\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\tHealthTech<\/span>\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<\/li>\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t
                                                          • \n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<\/path><\/svg>\t\t\t\t\t\t<\/span>\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\tFinTech<\/span>\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<\/li>\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t
                                                          • \n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<\/path><\/svg>\t\t\t\t\t\t<\/span>\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\tEdTech<\/span>\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<\/li>\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t
                                                          • \n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<\/path><\/svg>\t\t\t\t\t\t<\/span>\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\tCleanTech<\/span>\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<\/li>\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t
                                                          • \n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<\/path><\/svg>\t\t\t\t\t\t<\/span>\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\tBioTech<\/span>\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<\/li>\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t
                                                          • \n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<\/path><\/svg>\t\t\t\t\t\t<\/span>\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\tManufacturing<\/span>\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<\/li>\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t
                                                          • \n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<\/path><\/svg>\t\t\t\t\t\t<\/span>\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\tSocial Impact<\/span>\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<\/li>\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t
                                                          • \n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<\/path><\/svg>\t\t\t\t\t\t<\/span>\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\tDeep Tech & SaaS<\/span>\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<\/li>\n\t\t\t\t\t\t<\/ul>\n\t\t\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t
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                                                            Compliance & Reporting Obligations<\/h2>\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t
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                                                            Startups must:<\/p>\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t

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                                                            • \n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<\/path><\/svg>\t\t\t\t\t\t<\/span>\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\tMaintain proper books of accounts<\/span>\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<\/li>\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t
                                                            • \n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<\/path><\/svg>\t\t\t\t\t\t<\/span>\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\tSubmit milestone utilization reports<\/span>\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<\/li>\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t
                                                            • \n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<\/path><\/svg>\t\t\t\t\t\t<\/span>\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\tAllow audit \/ review by incubator or DPIIT if required<\/span>\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<\/li>\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t
                                                            • \n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<\/path><\/svg>\t\t\t\t\t\t<\/span>\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\tUse funds strictly as per approved purpose<\/span>\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<\/li>\n\t\t\t\t\t\t<\/ul>\n\t\t\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t
                                                              \n\t\t\t\t\t

                                                              Misutilisation can lead to termination and recovery.<\/p><\/div><\/div>\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t

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                                                              Why SISFS is a Strategic Policy Intervention<\/h2>\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t
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                                                              • \n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<\/path><\/svg>\t\t\t\t\t\t<\/span>\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\tReduces early-stage funding failure<\/span>\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<\/li>\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t
                                                              • \n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<\/path><\/svg>\t\t\t\t\t\t<\/span>\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\tEncourages innovation beyond metro cities<\/span>\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<\/li>\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t
                                                              • \n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<\/path><\/svg>\t\t\t\t\t\t<\/span>\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\tStrengthens incubator-led ecosystems<\/span>\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<\/li>\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t
                                                              • \n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<\/path><\/svg>\t\t\t\t\t\t<\/span>\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\tAligns with Atmanirbhar Bharat & Startup India vision<\/b><\/span>\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<\/li>\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t
                                                              • \n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<\/path><\/svg>\t\t\t\t\t\t<\/span>\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\tCreates a pipeline of VC-ready startups<\/b><\/span>\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<\/li>\n\t\t\t\t\t\t<\/ul>\n\t\t\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t
                                                                \n\t\t\t\t\t

                                                                Conclusion<\/h2>\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t
                                                                \n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t

                                                                India cannot build global startups only by funding growth \u2014 it must fund belief<\/strong>.
                                                                The Startup India Seed Fund Scheme does exactly that by backing innovation before traction<\/strong>, and vision before valuation<\/strong>.<\/p>\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t

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                                                                For early-stage founders, SISFS is not merely a scheme \u2014 it is a launchpad into the formal startup ecosystem<\/strong>.<\/p>\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t

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                                                                Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) \u2013 Startup India Seed Fund Scheme (SISFS)<\/h2>\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t
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                                                                1. Is SISFS funding given directly by the Government to startups? <\/div><\/span>\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\n\t\t\t<\/path><\/svg><\/span>\n\t\t\t<\/path><\/svg><\/span>\n\t\t<\/span>\n\n\t\t\t\t\t\t<\/summary>\n\t\t\t\t
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                                                                No. Funds are not disbursed directly by the Government<\/strong>. As per SISFS Guidelines, funding is routed only through DPIIT-approved incubators<\/strong>, which evaluate, disburse, and monitor the startups.<\/p>\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t\t<\/details>\n\t\t\t\t\t\t

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                                                                2. Can a startup receive both grant and investment support under SISFS? <\/div><\/span>\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\n\t\t\t<\/path><\/svg><\/span>\n\t\t\t<\/path><\/svg><\/span>\n\t\t<\/span>\n\n\t\t\t\t\t\t<\/summary>\n\t\t\t\t
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                                                                Yes. A startup can receive:<\/p>

                                                                • Grant support once (up to \u20b920 lakhs)<\/strong>, and<\/li>
                                                                • Investment support once (up to \u20b950 lakhs) <\/strong>subject to eligibility, milestones, and incubator approval.<\/li><\/ul>\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t\t<\/details>\n\t\t\t\t\t\t
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                                                                  3. Does SISFS require equity dilution at the grant stage? <\/div><\/span>\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\n\t\t\t<\/path><\/svg><\/span>\n\t\t\t<\/path><\/svg><\/span>\n\t\t<\/span>\n\n\t\t\t\t\t\t<\/summary>\n\t\t\t\t
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                                                                  No. Grant support does not involve equity dilution<\/strong>. Equity or quasi-equity instruments are applicable only in the investment support phase<\/strong>.<\/p>\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t\t<\/details>\n\t\t\t\t\t\t

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                                                                  4. Is DPIIT recognition mandatory to apply for SISFS? <\/div><\/span>\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\n\t\t\t<\/path><\/svg><\/span>\n\t\t\t<\/path><\/svg><\/span>\n\t\t<\/span>\n\n\t\t\t\t\t\t<\/summary>\n\t\t\t\t
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                                                                  Yes. DPIIT recognition is compulsory<\/strong>. Startups not recognised under Startup India are not eligible<\/strong> to apply under SISFS.<\/p>\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t\t<\/details>\n\t\t\t\t\t\t

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                                                                  5. Can LLPs apply for Startup India Seed Fund Scheme? <\/div><\/span>\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\n\t\t\t<\/path><\/svg><\/span>\n\t\t\t<\/path><\/svg><\/span>\n\t\t<\/span>\n\n\t\t\t\t\t\t<\/summary>\n\t\t\t\t
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                                                                  Yes. Private Limited Companies and LLPs<\/strong> recognised by DPIIT are eligible, provided all other scheme conditions are fulfilled.<\/p>\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t\t<\/details>\n\t\t\t\t\t\t

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                                                                  6. Can a startup apply to more than one incubator? <\/div><\/span>\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\n\t\t\t<\/path><\/svg><\/span>\n\t\t\t<\/path><\/svg><\/span>\n\t\t<\/span>\n\n\t\t\t\t\t\t<\/summary>\n\t\t\t\t
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                                                                  Yes. A startup can select up to three incubators<\/strong> while applying on the Seed Fund portal.<\/p>\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t\t<\/details>\n\t\t\t\t\t\t

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                                                                  7. Is there any sector restriction under SISFS? <\/div><\/span>\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\n\t\t\t<\/path><\/svg><\/span>\n\t\t\t<\/path><\/svg><\/span>\n\t\t<\/span>\n\n\t\t\t\t\t\t<\/summary>\n\t\t\t\t
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                                                                  No. SISFS is sector-agnostic<\/strong>, covering technology, manufacturing, services, social impact, and innovation-driven startups.<\/p>\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t\t<\/details>\n\t\t\t\t\t\t

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                                                                  8. What happens if milestones are not achieved? <\/div><\/span>\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\n\t\t\t<\/path><\/svg><\/span>\n\t\t\t<\/path><\/svg><\/span>\n\t\t<\/span>\n\n\t\t\t\t\t\t<\/summary>\n\t\t\t\t
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                                                                  Failure to meet milestones may result in:<\/p>

                                                                  • Delay or stoppage of further disbursement<\/li>
                                                                  • Termination of support<\/li>
                                                                  • Recovery proceedings in case of misuse<\/li><\/ul>\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t\t<\/details>\n\t\t\t\t\t\t
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                                                                    9. Is professional assistance required for SISFS application? <\/div><\/span>\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\n\t\t\t<\/path><\/svg><\/span>\n\t\t\t<\/path><\/svg><\/span>\n\t\t<\/span>\n\n\t\t\t\t\t\t<\/summary>\n\t\t\t\t
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                                                                    While not mandatory, professional support significantly improves approval chances<\/strong>, especially in:<\/p>

                                                                    • Pitch documentation<\/li>
                                                                    • Financial projections<\/li>
                                                                    • Compliance alignment<\/li>
                                                                    • Incubator presentation strategy<\/li><\/ul>\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t\t<\/details>\n\t\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t
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                                                                      How This Article Complements Our Earlier Labour Codes Insight<\/h2>\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t
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                                                                      While our earlier article on New Labour Codes 2025<\/strong> explains what<\/em> the new codes are and when<\/em> they apply, this article addresses the most practical employer concern:<\/p>\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t

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                                                                      • \n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<\/path><\/svg>\t\t\t\t\t\t<\/span>\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\tHow salary structures will change<\/span>\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<\/li>\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t
                                                                      • \n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<\/path><\/svg>\t\t\t\t\t\t<\/span>\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\tHow statutory costs may increase<\/span>\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<\/li>\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t
                                                                      • \n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<\/path><\/svg>\t\t\t\t\t\t<\/span>\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\tHow gratuity and social security calculations will be impacted<\/span>\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<\/li>\n\t\t\t\t\t\t<\/ul>\n\t\t\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t
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                                                                        Together, both articles provide a complete compliance picture<\/strong> for business owners, HR heads, and CFOs<\/p>\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t

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                                                                        Need Help with Labour Code Compliance?<\/h2>\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t
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                                                                        Labour Code compliance is not just a legal requirement\u2014it directly affects cost structures and employee trust.<\/p>

                                                                        Vizttax<\/strong> assists businesses with:<\/p>\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t

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                                                                        • \n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<\/path><\/svg>\t\t\t\t\t\t<\/span>\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\tSalary restructuring under Labour Codes<\/span>\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<\/li>\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t
                                                                        • \n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<\/path><\/svg>\t\t\t\t\t\t<\/span>\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\tPayroll & gratuity impact analysis<\/span>\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<\/li>\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t
                                                                        • \n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<\/path><\/svg>\t\t\t\t\t\t<\/span>\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\tCompliance advisory & implementation support<\/span>\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<\/li>\n\t\t\t\t\t\t<\/ul>\n\t\t\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t
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                                                                          Connect with Vizttax for expert labour law compliance guidance.<\/p><\/div><\/div>\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t

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                                                                          Share the article:<\/h2>\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t
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                                                                          Startup India Seed Fund Scheme (SISFS): Legal Framework, Funding Structure & Practical Insights for Early-Stage Startups Introduction: Why Seed Funding Needs Government Intervention In India\u2019s startup ecosystem, the most fragile phase is not expansion or scaling \u2014 it is ideation and validation. At this stage, startups have innovation, intent, and capability, but lack risk capital. Traditional lenders avoid unproven models. Angel investors expect early traction. Venture capital waits for revenue visibility. This creates a funding vacuum at the seed stage. To address this structural gap, the Government of India introduced the Startup India Seed Fund Scheme (SISFS) \u2014 a targeted policy intervention aimed at converting ideas into investible startups. Legal & Policy Background of SISFS Statutory Authority The scheme is launched and governed by: Department for Promotion of Industry and Internal Trade (DPIIT) Ministry of Commerce & Industry, Government of India Governing Document Startup India Seed Fund Scheme (SISFS) Guidelines, 2021 Approved by the Empowered Committee constituted by DPIIT Implemented through Startup India platform The scheme operates under executive policy powers of the Central Government and does not require separate legislation, similar to other startup incentive schemes. Objective of Startup India Seed Fund Scheme As per official guidelines, the objectives are to: Provide financial assistance to startups at early stages Enable Proof of Concept (PoC), prototype development, and market entry Reduce dependency on informal funding or premature equity dilution Promote innovation-led entrepreneurship across India, including Tier-2 and Tier-3 cities Who Can Apply Under SISFS? (Eligibility Conditions) As per Clause 6 of SISFS Guidelines, a startup must satisfy all of the following: 1. DPIIT Recognition (Mandatory) Startup must be recognised under Section 2(92) of the Companies Act, 2013 read with DPIIT notification Recognition through Startup India portal 2. Age of Startup Incorporated not more than 2 years at the time of application 3. Startup must not have received: Startup must: Be innovation-driven Use technology or scalable business model Have potential for employment generation or wealth creation 4. Nature of Business Startup must not have received: More than \u20b910 lakh as monetary support from any Central or State Government scheme, excluding: Prize money Hackathon grants Prototype challenge awards This ensures SISFS supports first-time seed-stage startups only. Funding Structure Under SISFS The scheme provides two distinct forms of financial support, each governed by separate conditions. 1. Grant Support \u2013 Up to \u20b920 Lakhs Legal Basis Clause 8(a) of SISFS Guidelines Purpose of Grant Grant funding can be used for: Proof of Concept (PoC) Prototype development Product testing and trials Market validation MVP development Key Conditions Disbursed only through selected incubators Released in milestone-based tranches No equity dilution Grant cannot be used for: Office rent (except incubator facilities) Founder salary beyond approved norms Marketing at scale This funding is non-repayable, subject to milestone compliance. 2. Investment Support \u2013 Up to \u20b950 Lakhs Legal Basis Clause 8(b) of SISFS Guidelines Mode of Investment Provided through: Convertible debentures Debt Debt-linked instruments Purpose Commercialisation Market entry Early scaling Working capital for validated products Key Features Investment decision taken by incubator\u2019s Investment Committee Valuation aligned with market norms Startup can receive: Grant once Investment once Or both (subject to approval) This ensures capital discipline while keeping founders protected from early dilution. Role of Incubators Under SISFS (Critical Governance Layer) Unlike many schemes, funds are not directly released to startups. Incubators are: Selected by DPIIT through a competitive process Registered legal entities (Section 8 companies, trusts, societies, universities, etc.) Responsibilities of Incubators As per Clause 7: Evaluate startup applications Conduct presentations & due diligence Disburse funds Monitor milestones Provide: Mentorship Legal & compliance guidance Investor access Ecosystem support This structure ensures accountability, governance, and business mentoring, not just funding. Application Process (Step-by-Step) Step 1: Online Application Apply through Startup India Seed Fund portal Choose up to 3 incubators Step 2: Incubator Screening Document review Pitch presentation Technical & commercial evaluation Step 3: Approval & Agreement Execution of grant\/investment agreement Milestone definition Step 4: Fund Disbursement Released in tranches Subject to milestone achievement Sector Coverage SISFS is sector-agnostic, covering: AgriTech HealthTech FinTech EdTech CleanTech BioTech Manufacturing Social Impact Deep Tech & SaaS Compliance & Reporting Obligations Startups must: Maintain proper books of accounts Submit milestone utilization reports Allow audit \/ review by incubator or DPIIT if required Use funds strictly as per approved purpose Misutilisation can lead to termination and recovery. Why SISFS is a Strategic Policy Intervention Reduces early-stage funding failure Encourages innovation beyond metro cities Strengthens incubator-led ecosystems Aligns with Atmanirbhar Bharat & Startup India vision Creates a pipeline of VC-ready startups Conclusion India cannot build global startups only by funding growth \u2014 it must fund belief.The Startup India Seed Fund Scheme does exactly that by backing innovation before traction, and vision before valuation. For early-stage founders, SISFS is not merely a scheme \u2014 it is a launchpad into the formal startup ecosystem. Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) \u2013 Startup India Seed Fund Scheme (SISFS) 1. Is SISFS funding given directly by the Government to startups? No. Funds are not disbursed directly by the Government. As per SISFS Guidelines, funding is routed only through DPIIT-approved incubators, which evaluate, disburse, and monitor the startups. 2. Can a startup receive both grant and investment support under SISFS? Yes. A startup can receive: Grant support once (up to \u20b920 lakhs), and Investment support once (up to \u20b950 lakhs) subject to eligibility, milestones, and incubator approval. 3. Does SISFS require equity dilution at the grant stage? No. Grant support does not involve equity dilution. Equity or quasi-equity instruments are applicable only in the investment support phase. 4. Is DPIIT recognition mandatory to apply for SISFS? Yes. DPIIT recognition is compulsory. Startups not recognised under Startup India are not eligible to apply under SISFS. 5. Can LLPs apply for Startup India Seed Fund Scheme? Yes. Private Limited Companies and LLPs recognised by DPIIT are eligible, provided all other scheme conditions are fulfilled. 6. Can a startup apply to more than one incubator? Yes. A startup can select up to three incubators while applying<\/p>\n","protected":false},"author":2,"featured_media":1080,"comment_status":"open","ping_status":"open","sticky":false,"template":"","format":"standard","meta":{"site-sidebar-layout":"default","site-content-layout":"","ast-site-content-layout":"default","site-content-style":"default","site-sidebar-style":"default","ast-global-header-display":"","ast-banner-title-visibility":"","ast-main-header-display":"","ast-hfb-above-header-display":"","ast-hfb-below-header-display":"","ast-hfb-mobile-header-display":"","site-post-title":"","ast-breadcrumbs-content":"","ast-featured-img":"","footer-sml-layout":"","ast-disable-related-posts":"","theme-transparent-header-meta":"","adv-header-id-meta":"","stick-header-meta":"","header-above-stick-meta":"","header-main-stick-meta":"","header-below-stick-meta":"","astra-migrate-meta-layouts":"default","ast-page-background-enabled":"default","ast-page-background-meta":{"desktop":{"background-color":"var(--ast-global-color-5)","background-image":"","background-repeat":"repeat","background-position":"center center","background-size":"auto","background-attachment":"scroll","background-type":"","background-media":"","overlay-type":"","overlay-color":"","overlay-opacity":"","overlay-gradient":""},"tablet":{"background-color":"","background-image":"","background-repeat":"repeat","background-position":"center center","background-size":"auto","background-attachment":"scroll","background-type":"","background-media":"","overlay-type":"","overlay-color":"","overlay-opacity":"","overlay-gradient":""},"mobile":{"background-color":"","background-image":"","background-repeat":"repeat","background-position":"center center","background-size":"auto","background-attachment":"scroll","background-type":"","background-media":"","overlay-type":"","overlay-color":"","overlay-opacity":"","overlay-gradient":""}},"ast-content-background-meta":{"desktop":{"background-color":"var(--ast-global-color-4)","background-image":"","background-repeat":"repeat","background-position":"center center","background-size":"auto","background-attachment":"scroll","background-type":"","background-media":"","overlay-type":"","overlay-color":"","overlay-opacity":"","overlay-gradient":""},"tablet":{"background-color":"var(--ast-global-color-4)","background-image":"","background-repeat":"repeat","background-position":"center center","background-size":"auto","background-attachment":"scroll","background-type":"","background-media":"","overlay-type":"","overlay-color":"","overlay-opacity":"","overlay-gradient":""},"mobile":{"background-color":"var(--ast-global-color-4)","background-image":"","background-repeat":"repeat","background-position":"center center","background-size":"auto","background-attachment":"scroll","background-type":"","background-media":"","overlay-type":"","overlay-color":"","overlay-opacity":"","overlay-gradient":""}},"footnotes":""},"categories":[5],"tags":[17,36,13,67,68,18,20],"class_list":["post-1024","post","type-post","status-publish","format-standard","has-post-thumbnail","hentry","category-cfo","tag-business-finance","tag-cfo","tag-input-tax-credit","tag-sisfs","tag-startup-india-seed-fund-scheme","tag-tax-audit","tag-tax-governance"],"_links":{"self":[{"href":"https:\/\/vizttax.com\/insights\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts\/1024","targetHints":{"allow":["GET"]}}],"collection":[{"href":"https:\/\/vizttax.com\/insights\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts"}],"about":[{"href":"https:\/\/vizttax.com\/insights\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/types\/post"}],"author":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/vizttax.com\/insights\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/users\/2"}],"replies":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/vizttax.com\/insights\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/comments?post=1024"}],"version-history":[{"count":71,"href":"https:\/\/vizttax.com\/insights\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts\/1024\/revisions"}],"predecessor-version":[{"id":1663,"href":"https:\/\/vizttax.com\/insights\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts\/1024\/revisions\/1663"}],"wp:featuredmedia":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/vizttax.com\/insights\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/media\/1080"}],"wp:attachment":[{"href":"https:\/\/vizttax.com\/insights\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/media?parent=1024"}],"wp:term":[{"taxonomy":"category","embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/vizttax.com\/insights\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/categories?post=1024"},{"taxonomy":"post_tag","embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/vizttax.com\/insights\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/tags?post=1024"}],"curies":[{"name":"wp","href":"https:\/\/api.w.org\/{rel}","templated":true}]}}