Trademarks for startups
DPIIT-recognised startups and Udyam micro or small enterprises pay ₹4,500 per class to IP India instead of ₹9,000.
Frequently asked questions
Do startups pay a lower trademark fee in India?
Yes. Startups recognised by DPIIT pay ₹4,500 per class online instead of ₹9,000. Micro and small enterprises registered under Udyam also qualify.
Should the founder or the company file?
Ideally the company. If a founder already filed, assign the mark to the company and record the assignment.
How many classes should a startup file in?
Start with the classes for what you sell now, often one or two, and add more as you grow.
Is a word mark or logo better first?
Usually the word mark. It protects the name in any style.
Do startups pay a lower trademark fee in India?
Yes. DPIIT-recognised startups and Udyam-registered micro and small enterprises pay ₹4,500 per class to IP India instead of ₹9,000 for online filing.
Should the trademark be in the founder’s name or the company’s?
The company’s, if the company runs the business. If a founder already filed, assign the mark to the company and record it.
Can we file before the company is incorporated?
Yes. A founder can file personally and assign the mark to the company after incorporation, then record the assignment.
Do investors check trademarks in due diligence?
Commonly, yes. They check that the company owns its brand and that no conflicting marks stand in the way.