Rajiv Gandhi Entrepreneurship Program (RGEP) is a flagship startup-support initiative of the Department of Electronics, IT, BT and S&T, Government of Karnataka, designed to help young Science and Engineering graduates turn innovative ideas into successful startups. Under the programme, 30 selected innovators receive a monthly stipend of Rs. 25,000 for 12 months (up to Rs. 3 lakh), along with mentoring, incubation support, and access to K-Tech Innovation Hubs. Eligible candidates can apply online whenever a fresh application cycle is announced on the official portal.
Karnataka Rajiv Gandhi Entrepreneurship Program (RGEP) Highlights | |
|---|---|
| Programme Name | Rajiv Gandhi Entrepreneurship Program (RGEP) |
| Launch Date | 19 July 2024 |
| Nodal Department | Department of Electronics, IT, BT and S&T, Government of Karnataka |
| Implementing Agency | Karnataka Innovation and Technology Society (KITS) |
| Objective | Support young innovators in transforming ideas into startups and encourage entrepreneurship over traditional employment |
| Monthly Stipend | Rs. 25,000 |
| Support Duration | 12 Months |
| Total Financial Support | Up to Rs. 3,00,000 per innovator |
| Innovators Selected Per Year | 30 |
| Maximum Age Limit | 30 Years |
| Educational Qualification | 3-Year or 4-Year Science/Engineering Degree |
| Employment Requirement | Applicant must not be employed and must dedicate full-time to the proposed idea |
| Startup Stage Supported | Early-Stage and Pre-Commercial Innovative Ideas |
| Programme Outcome | Prototype, Minimum Viable Product (MVP), or Proof of Concept (PoC) |
| Additional Benefits | Mentoring, Startup Guidance, Networking Support, and Access to K-Tech Innovation Hubs |
| Selection Method | Eligibility Screening followed by Jury Presentation and Evaluation |
| Application Mode | Online |
| Official RGEP Portal | eitbt.karnataka.gov.in |
| Helpline Number | 080-22231007 |
| Email Support | rgep.startupkar@gmail.com |
Introduction of Karnataka Rajiv Gandhi Entrepreneurship Program: A Brief Insight
For many young Science and Engineering graduates, having an innovative idea is not the biggest challenge — sustaining themselves while building that idea is. Many promising innovators eventually accept regular jobs to meet their daily expenses, putting their entrepreneurial dreams on hold before they even get a chance to grow. Recognising this challenge, the Government of Karnataka launched the Rajiv Gandhi Entrepreneurship Program (RGEP) on 19 July 2024 to support young innovators during the crucial early stages of their entrepreneurial journey.
The programme is implemented by the Department of Electronics, IT, BT and S&T, Government of Karnataka through the Karnataka Innovation and Technology Society (KITS). Its primary objective is to encourage young graduates to choose entrepreneurship over conventional employment by providing financial support and a structured innovation ecosystem. The programme aims to transform innovative ideas into viable business opportunities while promoting technology-driven economic growth across Karnataka.
Under RGEP, 30 selected innovators are chosen every year through a competitive selection process. Each selected participant receives a monthly subsistence stipend of Rs. 25,000 for 12 months, amounting to a total support of up to Rs. 3 lakh. This financial assistance allows founders to focus completely on developing their ideas without the immediate pressure of earning a salary.
In addition to the stipend, participants receive mentoring, business guidance, and access to K-Tech Innovation Hubs. The programme is designed to help innovators progress from a concept stage to a working Prototype, Minimum Viable Product (MVP), or Proof of Concept (PoC). Throughout the programme, founders receive support in refining their business model, validating market demand, and preparing their innovation for future growth and investment opportunities.
Selection under RGEP is highly competitive. Applications are screened for eligibility, and shortlisted candidates are invited to present their ideas before an expert jury panel. The evaluation focuses on factors such as innovation, problem-solving potential, socio-economic impact, feasibility, scalability, and commercial viability. This ensures that support reaches ideas with the strongest potential to create meaningful impact.
Indian citizens who are domiciled in Karnataka, aged 30 years or below, and have completed a Science or Engineering degree can apply when a fresh application cycle is announced. Applicants must not be in salaried employment and should not hold any ownership stake in another startup. Since applications are invited only during specific programme cycles, interested candidates should regularly monitor the Official RGEP portal for new notifications and application dates.
For assistance regarding eligibility, application procedures, or programme updates, applicants can contact the Karnataka Startup Cell at 080-22231007 or email rgep.startupkar@gmail.com. Checking the official portal regularly is recommended, as programme schedules and application timelines may change from one cycle to another. The last date to apply for the Rajiv Gandhi Entrepreneurship Program is 31st of August 2026.
Innovators who successfully develop their ideas and require funding to launch or expand their ventures can explore the Pradhan Mantri Mudra Yojana (PMMY), which provides collateral-free loans to small businesses and entrepreneurs. Those planning to establish a new manufacturing or service enterprise can also consider the Prime Minister’s Employment Generation Programme (PMEGP), which offers credit-linked financial assistance for first-generation entrepreneurs.
Young innovators, aspiring founders, and graduates looking for startup support, employment opportunities, and entrepreneurship-focused initiatives can explore more programmes available under the Karnataka Government on our Karnataka Government Welfare Schemes page.
Benefits Provided to Eligible Beneficiaries
The Karnataka Innovation and Technology Society (KITS), under the Department of Electronics, IT, BT and S&T, provides financial and mentoring support to selected innovators through the Rajiv Gandhi Entrepreneurship Program (RGEP), helping them focus full-time on transforming their ideas into viable startups.
Monthly Subsistence Stipend
- Rs. 25,000 per month for a period of 12 months
- Total financial support of up to Rs. 3,00,000 per selected innovator
- The stipend is provided as a subsistence allowance to help founders meet their basic living expenses while working on their startup idea
- The assistance is not a loan and does not require repayment under normal programme conditions
- The stipend is also not intended as direct business funding for large-scale operational or capital expenditure
Support During the Idea Development Stage
- Allows innovators to dedicate their time fully to entrepreneurship without depending on salaried employment
- Supports market research, customer discovery, and validation activities
- Helps founders work on prototype planning and product development
- Provides flexibility to explore business opportunities and refine the startup concept
- Encourages innovators to convert promising ideas into commercially viable ventures
Mentoring and Incubation Support
- Access to K-Tech Innovation Hubs and the Karnataka startup ecosystem
- Guidance from experienced mentors, industry experts, and startup professionals
- Support for business model development and product-market fit validation
- Technology, innovation, and commercialisation guidance for selected projects
- Networking opportunities with investors, incubators, entrepreneurs, and industry stakeholders
- Regular review and monitoring by the designated Program Monitoring Partner (PMP) throughout the programme period
Innovation and Startup Development Outcomes
- Development of a Prototype, Minimum Viable Product (MVP), or Proof of Concept (PoC)
- Validation of the technical and commercial feasibility of the proposed idea
- Preparation for future incubation, startup registration, grant funding, or investor engagement
- Improved chances of transforming an early-stage concept into a scalable startup venture
Selection Scale of the Programme
- Only 30 innovators are selected in each annual cycle through a competitive evaluation process
- Selection is based on the innovation potential, feasibility, scalability, and overall impact of the proposed idea
RGEP vs Conventional Startup Funding
| Feature | RGEP | Conventional Startup Grant/Loan |
|---|---|---|
| Main Purpose | Support founders during the idea and validation stage | Fund business operations, expansion, or asset creation |
| Financial Support | Rs. 25,000/month for 12 months (up to Rs. 3 lakh) | Varies by scheme or institution |
| Equity Requirement | No equity requirement specified in programme guidelines | May require equity participation in some programmes |
| Repayment Obligation | Not described as a repayable loan | Loans generally require repayment with applicable terms |
| Target Stage | Idea-stage and pre-commercial innovators | Early-stage, growth-stage, or established businesses |
Important: RGEP is designed to support talented young innovators during the critical idea-development stage. Selection under the programme is highly competitive, and only shortlisted candidates receive the stipend and mentoring support. The final benefits, release schedule, and programme obligations remain subject to the terms mentioned in the official sanction order and programme guidelines.
Eligibility Conditions Required to be Fulfilled
The Department of Electronics, IT, BT and S&T, Government of Karnataka, has prescribed the following eligibility conditions for applicants interested in joining the Rajiv Gandhi Entrepreneurship Program (RGEP):
- Must be an Indian citizen and a domicile of Karnataka
- Must possess a 3-year or 4-year degree in Science or Engineering
- Applicants with at least 2 years of full-time work experience after graduation may receive preference during selection
- Must not be engaged in any full-time, part-time, contractual, outsourced, or salaried employment at the time of application
- Must not hold any equity, ownership, investment, or financial stake in any existing startup or business venture
- Must be 30 years of age or below on the date specified in the official notification
- Must be willing to dedicate full-time efforts to the proposed startup idea throughout the 12-month programme period
- The proposed product, service, or solution must be an early-stage innovative idea and should not have been commercially launched in the market before application
- The startup concept should demonstrate the potential for innovation, technology adoption, scalability, and future growth
The following applicants are generally not eligible under the programme:
- Individuals who are above 30 years of age
- Applicants who are not permanent residents of Karnataka
- Candidates who do not possess the required Science or Engineering qualification
- Individuals continuing in any form of paid employment during the programme period
- Applicants already associated with or holding a stake in another startup, company, or business entity
- Applicants unable to commit their time exclusively to the proposed venture
- Business ideas focused solely on traditional trading, retail activities, or non-innovative ventures without a clear innovation component
Documents Required to be Attached
Applicants should keep the following documents and information ready while applying for the Rajiv Gandhi Entrepreneurship Program (RGEP):
- Aadhaar Card or any other valid government-issued identity proof
- Karnataka Domicile or Residence Proof
- Science or Engineering degree certificate (3-year or 4-year programme)
- Final year marksheets and academic records
- Updated CV or resume
- Startup idea note, business plan, or pitch deck
- Prototype details, product demo, or proof of concept (if available)
- Work experience certificate, if applicable
- Self-declaration regarding current employment status
- Self-declaration confirming no ownership stake in another startup, if required
- PAN Card
- Bank account details
- Startup incorporation documents, if the venture is already registered
- Mentor, incubator, or institution recommendation, if sought under the application process
- Caste, disability, or any other supporting certificate, if applicable
How Beneficiaries Can Apply to Avail the Benefit of the Scheme
Applying for the Rajiv Gandhi Entrepreneurship Program (RGEP) is not difficult, but you can apply only when the Government of Karnataka opens a fresh application cycle. Think of it like a competition; applications are accepted only during the announced period. Follow the steps below carefully:
Step 1: Visit the official Karnataka IT-BT Department website and open the dedicated RGEP page.
Step 2: Check whether applications are currently open. If no active notification or application link is available, you will need to wait for the next intake cycle announced by the department.
Step 3: Carefully read the latest programme guidelines and notification. This will help you understand the eligibility conditions, age limit, selection process, required documents, and important dates.
Step 4: Create your account on the application portal by entering basic details such as your name, mobile number, email address, and educational information.
Step 5: Complete your applicant profile. Fill in details about your Science or Engineering degree, work experience (if any), and other information requested in the application form.
Step 6: Explain your startup idea in simple and clear language. Describe the problem you want to solve, how your idea works, who will use it, and why it is different from existing solutions.
Step 7: Upload your startup proposal, business plan, presentation (pitch deck), and any prototype or proof-of-concept details, if available.
Step 8: Upload all required supporting documents, including your identity proof, domicile certificate, degree certificate, marksheets, and self-declaration forms.
Step 9: Review every detail carefully before submission. Make sure all information is correct and all required documents have been uploaded.
Step 10: Submit the application before the last date mentioned in the notification. Late applications are generally not accepted.
Step 11: After submission, save or download your application number and acknowledgement receipt. Keep them safely for future reference.
Step 12: If your application is shortlisted, you will be invited to present your idea before an expert jury panel. During this presentation, explain:
- What problem you are solving
- How your idea works
- What makes your solution innovative
- Who will benefit from it
- How you plan to develop it over the next 12 months
Step 13: If selected, you will become one of the programme’s chosen innovators and will be required to sign the programme agreement. After this, you can begin working full-time on your idea with the support provided under RGEP.
Important: RGEP applications are not open throughout the year. Always rely on the official Karnataka IT-BT Department portal for the latest application status, notification, and deadlines. Avoid depending on old articles or unofficial websites, as application dates and programme conditions may change from one cycle to another.
Which Fields Does RGEP Support – Check Whether Your Idea Qualifies
The Rajiv Gandhi Entrepreneurship Program (RGEP) is designed to support innovative, technology-driven, and scalable startup ideas. The programme focuses on solutions that address real-world challenges through innovation, research, engineering, or technology, rather than conventional retail, trading, or low-innovation business models.
While the programme does not restrict applicants to a fixed list of sectors, the following domains are generally well-aligned with RGEP’s objectives:
- Information Technology (IT) and Software Products
- Artificial Intelligence (AI), Machine Learning, and Deep Tech
- Biotechnology, HealthTech, and MedTech
- Agritech and Smart Farming Solutions
- Climate Technology, Sustainability, and Clean Energy
- Robotics, Automation, and Engineering Innovations
- Electronics, IoT, and Embedded Systems
- Digital Public Services and Citizen-Centric Solutions
- Education Technology (EdTech)
- Smart Manufacturing and Industry 4.0 Solutions
In simple terms, if your idea introduces a new product, process, technology, or solution that can solve a genuine problem and has the potential to grow beyond a small local market, it is likely to fit within the scope of RGEP.
Important: Having a strong and innovative idea is more important than the sector itself. During evaluation, the jury typically focuses on the problem being solved, the uniqueness of the solution, its feasibility, scalability, and its potential social or economic impact.
Important Links Available of the Scheme
- Rajiv Gandhi Entrepreneurship Program (RGEP) Official Programme Page
- Department of Electronics, IT, BT and S&T, Government of Karnataka Official Portal
- Startup Karnataka Portal Application and Startup Ecosystem
Contact Details in Case of Help Needed
- Implementing Agency: Karnataka Innovation and Technology Society (KITS), Karnataka Startup Cell
- Department: Department of Electronics, IT, BT and S&T, Government of Karnataka
- Address: BKG Sapphire, 59 Railway Parallel Road, 4th Block, Kumara Park West, Seshadripuram, Bengaluru – 560020
- Phone: 080-22231007
- Email: rgep.startupkar@gmail.com
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Q. What is the Rajiv Gandhi Entrepreneurship Program (RGEP)?
Ans. The Rajiv Gandhi Entrepreneurship Program (RGEP) is a startup support initiative of the Government of Karnataka implemented through the Karnataka Innovation and Technology Society (KITS). It helps young Science and Engineering graduates transform innovative ideas into viable startups by providing financial support, mentoring, and incubation guidance.
Q. Who can apply for RGEP?
Ans. Indian citizens domiciled in Karnataka who are 30 years of age or below, possess a Science or Engineering degree, are not currently employed, and do not hold ownership in another startup can apply, subject to the conditions mentioned in the latest notification.
Q. How much financial assistance is provided under RGEP?
Ans. Selected innovators receive a monthly stipend of Rs. 25,000 for 12 months, providing total support of up to Rs. 3 lakh during the programme period.
Q. Is the RGEP stipend a loan?
Ans. No. The financial assistance provided under RGEP is a subsistence grant intended to support innovators while they work on their startup ideas. It is not described as a repayable loan.
Q. How many applicants are selected under the programme?
Ans. The programme generally selects 30 innovators in each annual cycle through a competitive evaluation and selection process.
Q. Can I apply if my startup is not yet registered?
Ans. Yes. RGEP primarily supports early-stage and pre-commercial ideas. Applicants can apply at the founder level even if the startup has not yet been formally incorporated.
Q. Can I apply while working in a job?
Ans. No. Applicants are expected to dedicate themselves full-time to their proposed venture and therefore should not be engaged in salaried employment during the programme period.
Q. What type of startup ideas are preferred under RGEP?
Ans. The programme focuses on innovative, technology-driven, and scalable solutions. Ideas related to areas such as Information Technology, Biotechnology, Artificial Intelligence, HealthTech, AgriTech, ClimateTech, and other innovation-based sectors are generally encouraged.
Q. What documents are required during application?
Ans. Applicants may be required to submit identity proof, domicile proof, degree certificates, marksheets, resume, startup proposal, self-declarations, and other supporting documents specified in the official notification.
Q. What is the selection process under RGEP?
Ans. Applications are screened for eligibility and shortlisted candidates are invited to present their ideas before an expert jury panel. The evaluation typically considers innovation, feasibility, scalability, problem-solving potential, and expected impact.
Q. What support is available apart from the stipend?
Ans. Selected innovators receive mentoring, business guidance, access to the Karnataka startup ecosystem, support from K-Tech Innovation Hubs, networking opportunities, and regular programme monitoring.
Q. What is the expected outcome of the programme?
Ans. Participants are expected to develop a Prototype, Minimum Viable Product (MVP), or Proof of Concept (PoC) that demonstrates the feasibility and commercial potential of their idea.
Q. Can I hold equity in another startup while participating in RGEP?
Ans. No. Applicants are generally required not to hold any ownership, investment, or equity stake in another startup while participating in the programme.
Q. Is RGEP open throughout the year?
Ans. No. Applications are accepted only when the Government of Karnataka announces a fresh application cycle. Interested candidates should regularly check the official portal for notifications and deadlines.
Q. Where can I apply for RGEP?
Ans. Applications are submitted online through the official RGEP page available on the Karnataka Department of Electronics, IT, BT and S&T website.
Q. Where can I get help regarding the programme?
Ans. Applicants can visit the official Karnataka IT-BT Department portal for programme updates and contact details. Any helpline numbers, email addresses, or support channels mentioned in the latest notification should be used for official assistance.
Tabassum is a government schemes researcher and writer with 5 years of experience tracking Central and State welfare scheme programmes across India. She has covered 500+ schemes spanning agriculture, women welfare, education, and housing, helping lakhs of beneficiaries understand their entitlements in simple language.