Financial assistance of up to Rs 10 lakh for OBC/OEC entrepreneurs

Kochi / February 5, 2026

Kochi, Feb 5: The Kerala Startup Mission (KSUM), in collaboration with the State Backward Classes Development Department, has invited applications under the BCDD (Backward Class Development Department) financial assistance scheme. Under this scheme, each selected startup will be eligible for financial support of up to Rs 10 lakh for product development and market entry.

The objective of the scheme is to create an inclusive startup ecosystem by supporting entrepreneurs from backward communities in converting innovative ideas into products and expanding their businesses. The programme offers early-stage startups the necessary encouragement to validate their ideas and undertake product development.

To avail of the scheme’s benefits, applicants must belong to the OBC or OEC categories, be graduates aged between 23 and 40 years. At least 80 percent equity ownership in the applying startup must be held by individuals from the above-mentioned communities. In addition, the applicants’ annual family income should be below Rs 5 lakh. Startups applying for productisation grants must be registered with the Kerala Startup Mission and must possess a valid KSUM Unique ID.

Eligible entrepreneurs can submit their applications through the website:  https://grants.startupmission.in/bcdd

ENDS