Understanding the SIPP Scheme
Innovation is at the heart of every successful startup—but without proper protection, even the best ideas can be vulnerable. Recognizing this, the Government of India introduced the Scheme for Facilitating Start-Ups Intellectual Property Protection (SIPP) in 2016 to enable young enterprises to secure their patents, trademarks, and designs without the burden of high professional fees. This blog post unpacks the key features of the renewed SIPP scheme (extended until March 31, 2026) and how your startup can leverage it to safeguard its competitive edge.
Vision & Objectives
The SIPP scheme aims to “protect and promote Intellectual Property Rights of Startups and thus encourage innovation and creativity among them” by providing access to high-quality IP services and resources through the network of Technology and Innovation Support Centers (TISCs) and empaneled IP facilitators.
Its core objectives are:
· Awareness & Adoption: Promote understanding of IP rights among startups.
· Mentorship & Support: Nurture innovative and emerging technologies by guiding startups through the IP filing and prosecution processes.
· Commercialization Assistance: Help startups protect and monetize their IP in India and abroad.
Who Can Apply?
1. DPIIT-Recognized Startups: Any entity recognized under the DPIIT notification GSR 127(E) dated February 19, 2019. Applicants must self-declare that they have not availed other government funds for IP filings.
2. Individual Innovators & Educational Institutes: Indian innovators, creators, and educational institutions applying for patents, designs, or trademarks—irrespective of DPIIT recognition—can also benefit under SIPP.
Scope of Services
Under the SIPP scheme, registered IP facilitators assist eligible applicants on a pro-bono basis with functions such as:
· Advising on different forms of IP and conducting preliminary searches
· Drafting provisional and complete patent specifications
· Preparing and filing trademark and design applications
· Responding to examination reports, notices, and objections from the IP Office.
Financial Support & Fee Reimbursements
To reduce the cost burden on startups, the Office of the Controller General of Patents, Designs & Trade Marks (CGPDTM) bears professional facilitation fees as per the following caps (increased by 100% from November 2, 2022):
· Patent Applications: Up to INR 15,000 per patent filing.
· Trademark & Design Applications: Up to INR 3,000 each.
The statutory fees (e.g., government filing charges) remain payable by the startup directly.
Recent Amendments & Extension
Originally set to lapse on March 31, 2023, the scheme has been extended until March 31, 2026, with amendments effective April 1, 2023, reflecting learnings from the pilot phase to streamline processes and enhance facilitator engagement.
How to Avail Yourself of SIPP Benefits
1. Obtain DPIIT Recognition (for startups) via the Startup India portal.
2. Select an Empanelled IP Facilitator listed on the CGPDTM website.
3. Submit a Self-Declaration confirming no other government support for IP filings.
4. Authorize the Facilitator and pay only statutory fees; the facilitator’s professional fees will be reimbursed by CGPDTM under SIPP.
Why SIPP Matters for Your Startup
· Cost-Effective: Significant reduction in professional fee outlay.
· Expert Guidance: Access to trained IP facilitators ensures high-quality filings.
· Competitive Advantage: Securing IP early protects innovations and boosts investor confidence.
At Eeva IP & IT Services Pvt Ltd, we specialize in guiding startups through every step of the SIPP process—from DPIIT recognition to final grant. Protect your innovations today and unlock your startup’s full potential. Contact us to learn how we can help you navigate the SIPP scheme and secure your intellectual property.
About the Author
Srinivas Maddipati
Patent Agent, IP Strategist, and Innovation Consultant
Srinivas Maddipati is a leading intellectual property consultant specializing in patents, trademarks, and IP portfolio management. With extensive experience in innovation facilitation for startups, MSMEs, and academic institutions, he advises clients across sectors including mining, metallurgy, clean energy, and advanced materials. Srinivas actively mentors emerging entrepreneurs, helping them navigate funding programs, commercialization strategies, and IP protection frameworks in India and abroad. His expertise combines deep technical knowledge with practical business insight, making him a trusted advisor in India's evolving innovation ecosystem.
