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Every year, January 16 is celebrated as National Startup Day, a day dedicated to recognizing the vital role startups play in driving innovation, economic growth, and self-reliance in India. Launched by Prime Minister Narendra Modi in 2022 to mark the Startup India initiative, this day serves as a reminder of the transformative power of entrepreneurial spirit in shaping the nation’s future.
As India marks nine years of the Startup India initiative, the country’s startup ecosystem has grown exponentially, becoming the third largest in the world with over 1.6 lakh government-recognized startups. These startups have not only revolutionized industries but also created 1.6 million jobs, contributing significantly to the nation’s economic development.
Here’s TICE presents everything you need to know about National Startup Day 2025, its significance, the benefits offered under the Startup India initiative, and its impact so far.
Significance of National Startup Day
National Startup Day is more than a celebration; it’s a tribute to the spirit of entrepreneurship. It highlights the collaboration between startups, investors, mentors, and policymakers in fostering innovation and self-reliance. Initiated in 2016 as part of Startup India, the day emphasizes the government’s commitment to creating a conducive environment for startups to thrive.
Read More: A Decade of Startup India: Innovation in Deeptech and Lifesciences
By acknowledging the contributions of startups, the day also inspires aspiring entrepreneurs to pursue their dreams and contribute to the nation’s growth story.
Benefits Under the Startup India Initiative
The Startup India initiative offers a range of benefits aimed at supporting startups through funding, simplified processes, and financial incentives. Here’s a closer look:
- Simplified Compliance: Startups can self-certify for labor and environmental laws, reducing regulatory complexities.
- Cost Savings: The government bears facilitation costs for patents, offers rebates on patent filings, and provides tax exemptions under Section 80IAC.
- Angel Tax Exemption: Startups are exempted from angel tax, encouraging investments.
- Ease of Exit: Simplified procedures make winding up companies quicker and hassle-free.
- Public Procurement Norms: Startups enjoy priority access to government tenders.
To avail these benefits, startups must register with the Department for Promotion of Industry and Internal Trade (DPIIT) and meet specific criteria, such as being operational for under 10 years and maintaining an annual turnover below ₹100 crore.
Read More: Indian Economy in 2025: IMF Forecasts a Slowdown Amid Global Low
The Impact of Startup India
The initiative’s success is evident in the numbers:
- Over 4,000 startups have received funding under the Fund of Funds for Startups program as of January 13, 2025.
- India now boasts over 110 unicorns, placing it among the top global startup ecosystems.
- Programs like the Atal Innovation Mission (AIM) and NIDHI (National Initiative for Developing and Harnessing Innovations) have provided crucial infrastructure and financial support to budding enterprises.
- The SAMRIDH scheme, launched in 2021, is set to fund 300 software product startups by 2025, offering up to ₹40 lakh per startup to accelerate growth.
The SPF Baithak, organized by the Startup Policy Forum (SPF) in collaboration with the government, is the highlight of this year’s celebrations. Held at Bharat Mandapam, New Delhi, on January 15-16, the event brings together founders, policymakers, and investors.
Key announcements and collaborations between DPIIT and SPF members are expected, alongside immersive programs to connect global investors with Indian startups, paving the way for international partnerships.
Future of Indian Startups
National Startup Day 2025 underscores the immense potential of the Indian startup ecosystem to drive growth, innovation, and job creation. As the world’s third-largest startup hub, India is poised to lead the global innovation landscape.
This January 16, as the nation celebrates its entrepreneurial journey, the message is clear: India’s startups are not just businesses; they are the building blocks of a stronger, self-reliant India.
Read More: What Are DPIIT's New Funding Strategies to Fuel Startup Growth?
Whether you’re an entrepreneur, investor, or simply an admirer of innovation, National Startup Day is a moment to reflect, celebrate, and look ahead to a future brimming with possibilities.
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