Frequently asked questions about SISFS support through STEP.
SISFS is an initiative by Startup India designed to support early-stage startups through grants, debt funding, and structured mentorship. At STEP, the program specifically supports women and non-binary leaders to scale impactful ventures.
STEP offers grants and debt support for idea and growth-stage startups, post-selection mentorship by domain experts, and ongoing support across business planning, compliance, and investor readiness.
Applicants should identify as women or non-binary founders, hold key decision-making roles, and be registered as a Private Limited Company, LLP, or OPC with valid DPIIT registration and generally within 2 years of incorporation.
The process includes online application (selecting STEP as preferred incubator), eligibility screening, expert committee review, shortlisting based on innovation and impact, and final selection followed by funding and mentorship support.
SISFS applications are accepted on a rolling basis with periodic selection rounds. The end-to-end process typically takes around 2 to 3 months from application to final selection.
STEP provides a gender-responsive support system, strategic mentorship, access to funding pathways, national visibility opportunities, and tailored guidance from idea to scale.