India Expands Export Opportunities for Start-ups via Trade Connect
In a pivotal move to enhance innovation-led exports and bolster India’s trade framework, the Directorate General of Foreign Trade (DGFT) has broadened the eligibility criteria for the “Source from India” service on the Trade Connect ePlatform. As of August 06, 2026, eligible start-ups recognized by the Department for Promotion of Industry and Internal Trade (DPIIT) will now be able to showcase their products and services on this official digital platform.
The decision, detailed in Trade Notice No. 16, represents a significant step towards increasing the international visibility of India’s burgeoning start-up ecosystem. By allowing innovative exporters to present their offerings on a government-run digital marketplace, the initiative aims to connect them with potential international buyers.
Trade Connect: A Gateway for Exporters
Trade Connect is designed to serve as a comprehensive digital interface, linking Indian exporters with various trade-related resources and institutional support. One of its standout features, “Source from India,” permits eligible exporters to set up unique digital microsites. These microsites make it easier for global buyers to find reliable Indian suppliers and facilitate direct communication.
Starting August 06, 2026, DPIIT-recognized start-ups that meet the established eligibility criteria will be able to create their microsites on the Trade Connect platform. These start-ups will be distinguished with a unique Start-up Badge, making them easily identifiable to overseas buyers.
Supporting Early-Stage Exporters
To further support early-stage exporters, the government has introduced a special onboarding provision. Start-ups recognized by DPIIT that possess a valid Import Export Code (IEC) and are not listed on the Denied Entity List (DEL) can now create profiles on “Source from India”. This adaptation allows them to join even if they do not currently meet the standard export performance metrics, with their eligibility subject to verification through the DGFT’s IEC database.
This initiative is poised to significantly boost the role of innovation-driven companies in global trade, increasing their visibility on an official platform and promoting India’s position as a hub of technology-driven products and services. The government expects this to enhance export diversification and support the growth of new market opportunities.
Existing start-up users on Trade Connect whose accounts are associated with eligible IECs will automatically have the option to establish their “Source from India” microsites directly from their dashboard. To ease the transition, a comprehensive user guide has been released to assist with registration and profile creation.
Building on Previous Efforts
This expansion follows an earlier adjustment to the “Source from India” initiative, which opened the platform to all valid IEC holders meeting specified export criteria. By including India’s start-up ecosystem, the government aims to create equitable opportunities for forward-thinking enterprises and strengthen the nation’s competitive edge in exports.
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