The Indian government is gearing up to introduce a new helpline for startups, aiming to boost entrepreneurship and innovation across the country. Commerce and Industry Minister Piyush Goyal announced plans for the “Startup India Desk” during the Startup Mahakumbh 2025 event on April 5.
This upcoming toll-free, four-digit helpline will be managed by the Department for Promotion of Industry and Internal Trade (DPIIT). It’s designed to offer support in multiple regional languages, making it accessible to entrepreneurs nationwide.
The helpline’s primary purpose will be to assist startups facing challenges or needing guidance. Entrepreneurs will be able to use this service to report issues such as bureaucratic hurdles, seek advice on regulatory matters, or suggest policy changes.
“If an official is troubling you, if you have any suggestions, if changes to the laws are needed, or you’ve developed something that requires the creation of new regulations, call the helpline,” Goyal stated during the announcement.
In addition to the upcoming helpline, Goyal revealed plans for a second Fund of Funds for Startups (FFS). This Rs.10,000 crore fund aims to provide early-stage financial support to new entrepreneurs who often struggle to access traditional capital.
The government will disburse Rs.2,000 crore to the Small Industries Development Bank of India (SIDBI) as the initial installment this year. A significant portion of the fund will be allocated to seed funding for small startups and supporting deep-tech innovation startups.
The minister emphasized that this fund will promote the development of advanced technologies such as artificial intelligence, machine learning, quantum computing, robotics, precision manufacturing, biotech, and semiconductor design.
Goyal also called on SIDBI to establish support centers in every state, providing basic infrastructure and shared facilities for early-stage entrepreneurs.
The planned launch of the Startup India Desk helpline and the new fund demonstrates the government’s commitment to fostering a thriving startup ecosystem in India. These initiatives aim to address common challenges faced by entrepreneurs and promote innovation across various sectors.
The ministry is expected to release the toll-free number and other details about the helpline through official channels soon.
