“Source from India” Facility to DPIIT-Recognised Start-ups
DGFT Expands “Source from India” Facility to DPIIT-Recognised Start-ups
The Directorate General of Foreign Trade (DGFT) has expanded the eligibility for the “Source from India” facility available on the Trade Connect ePlatform to include eligible DPIIT-recognised start-ups.
The change has been announced through Trade Notice No. 16/2026-27 dated 6 August 2026.
What is “Source from India”?
The Trade Connect ePlatform is a digital platform intended to connect Indian exporters with international buyers and provide exporters with access to various Government-supported trade facilitation services.
One of its key features, “Source from India”, functions as a digital showcase for Indian exporters.
Eligible exporters can create a dedicated microsite/profile where they can present their products, export capabilities and credentials to prospective international buyers.
Eligibility for DPIIT-Recognised Start-ups
Previously, the “Source from India” facility was available to:
- Status Holders; and
- Valid IEC holders who were not included in the DEL list and had achieved export realisation of at least USD 100,000 in any one of the preceding three financial years at the time of application.
The export realisation is determined using the DGFT eBRC database, which serves as the reference for financial-year-wise aggregate export realisation.
DGFT has now introduced a specific provision for DPIIT-recognised start-ups.
Start-ups Meeting Existing Eligibility Conditions
DPIIT-recognised start-ups that satisfy the existing eligibility requirements can register for the “Source from India” facility.
After verification, such profiles will receive a special start-up badge, helping international buyers identify them on the platform.
Their export activity may be verified through the DGFT IEC database.
Special Relaxation for DPIIT-Recognised Start-ups
A significant relaxation has also been provided to DPIIT-recognised start-ups.
Even where a start-up does not satisfy the existing export-realisation requirement, it can still access the “Source from India” facility if:
- It is recognised by DPIIT;
- It holds an active IEC; and
- Its IEC is not included in the DEL list.
This special exception is intended to enable early-stage start-ups with export potential to gain international visibility even if they do not yet have a substantial export track record.
Start-up Badge on Trade Connect
Eligible DPIIT-recognised start-ups will be identified through a unique start-up badge linked to their Trade Connect profile.
This will help overseas buyers distinguish recognised Indian start-ups while searching for potential suppliers.
How to Access the “Source from India” Microsite
Start-up users registered on Trade Connect whose profiles are linked with an eligible IEC, including IECs covered by the special relaxation, will see the option to create a “Source from India” microsite on their dashboard.
Step 1: Create or Use an Existing Trade Connect Account
Users need a valid account on the Trade Connect ePlatform.
Existing DGFT users can use their existing credentials to access Trade Connect, and Trade Connect users can similarly use their credentials on the DGFT platform. Separate registration is therefore generally not required.
Step 2: Link the IEC
The user account must be linked with the relevant valid IEC.
Users can log in to Trade Connect and follow the option provided for linking an IEC if their IEC has not already been connected to their account.
Step 3: Create the “Source from India” Profile
After logging in with the email address linked to the eligible IEC:
- Open the user dashboard.
- Select “Create Source from India Profile”.
- Enter the required details relating to export achievements and other information.
- Complete the applicable declarations.
- Submit the profile for approval.
An alternative route is available through My Dashboard → Manage Source from India Profile.
Step 4: Profile Goes Live
Once the profile is approved, the microsite will become publicly accessible through the Source from India section of the Trade Connect platform.
Role of Indian Missions Abroad
Indian Missions located overseas have also been encouraged to use the “Source from India” platform as a reference when foreign buyers approach them seeking Indian suppliers.
This can provide Indian exporters, particularly start-ups, with an additional channel for connecting with international sourcing opportunities.
Role of Export Promotion Councils and Industry Bodies
Export Promotion Councils, Commodity Boards and trade and industry associations have been requested to widely communicate the new facility and encourage eligible members to participate.
Why This Matters for Start-ups
The expanded facility can provide DPIIT-recognised start-ups with an official digital platform to showcase their offerings to international buyers.
The initiative is expected to:
- Increase global visibility of Indian start-ups;
- Help new businesses access overseas buyers;
- Encourage innovation-driven exports;
- Broaden India’s export product and service base; and
- Support the international expansion of Indian start-ups.
Key Takeaway
DGFT has introduced a special eligibility route for DPIIT-recognised start-ups under the “Source from India” facility.
A start-up can access the facility even without meeting the normal USD 100,000 export-realisation condition, provided it has an active IEC and is not included in the DEL list.
Eligible start-ups can create a dedicated microsite on Trade Connect and, after approval, showcase their products and credentials to potential buyers worldwide.
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