ELEVATE Minorities 2026
Department of Electronics, IT, BT and S&T, Government of Karnataka
A one-time grant for Karnataka startups majority owned by founders from eligible minority communities: Muslims, Buddhists, Jains, Sikhs and Parsis. It helps take an idea to proof of concept or scale through better technology. Winners also get mentoring and subsidised incubation at government supported centres. Selection includes multi-city pitching and a finale.
What you can get
Up to ₹50 lakh as one-time grant-in-aid
Do you repay it?
No
Type
Grant
Where
Karnataka
Current status
Department page shows applications open 13 Oct 2026, 9:00 AM to 13 Nov 2026, 5:00 PM. Portal lists this as one of two active ELEVATE calls. Published deadline: 13 November 2026.
Who can apply
- Private limited company, OPC, partnership, LLP or cooperative, registered in Karnataka
- Turnover of ₹200 crore or less in every year, and up to 10 years from incorporation
- Minority directors or partners together hold at least 51% equity for the whole project
- Those founders hold a valid digital minority certificate from the Karnataka Revenue Department
- Working on an innovative product, service or process with job or wealth potential
How to apply
- 1Register on the ELEVATE portal and apply online
- 2Upload the incorporation certificate, minority certificate, MoA or deed, and notarised affidavit
- 3Pass the eligibility check, then multi-city pitching and the Grand Finale
The catch
Any dilution that takes minority holding below 51% during the project means disqualification or termination, so plan fundraising around it. The certificate must be the digital one issued in Karnataka.
We read this on the official page on 4 November 2026. Rules and dates change, so confirm there before you apply. Founders Wing is not connected to this scheme, does not help with applications and never charges for access to it.