In today’s fast-moving digital and competitive market, your brand name is more valuable than ever. For MSMEs (Micro, Small and Medium Enterprises) and Startups, protecting your brand identity through trademark registration is not just important — it’s a strategic business move.
The Indian government offers discounted fees and faster processing for MSMEs and DPIIT-recognized Startups to encourage brand protection.
🚀 Why Startups and MSMEs Need a Trademark
A registered trademark:
- Gives exclusive rights to use your brand name/logo
- Prevents others from copying or imitating your brand
- Builds trust and brand recognition in the market
- Increases your business valuation
- Makes franchising, licensing, and funding easier
🧾 Eligibility for MSME and Startup Trademark Benefits
To qualify for discounted trademark registration fees:
✅ For Startups:
- Must be recognized by the DPIIT under Startup India
- Should hold a valid Startup Recognition Certificate
✅ For MSMEs:
- Must be registered on the Udyam Portal
- Should possess a valid Udyam Registration Certificate
💰 Trademark Registration Fees for Startups & MSMEs
| Applicant Type | Govt. Fee per Class | Documents Required |
|---|---|---|
| Startup/MSME (E-filing) | ₹4,500 | Udyam or Startup India Certificate |
| Others (E-filing) | ₹9,000 | N/A |
🟢 Professional filing charges range from ₹1,000 to ₹3,000 depending on services.
📝 Documents Required for MSME/Startup Trademark Registration
- Applicant’s PAN and Aadhaar card
- Brand logo (optional for wordmark)
- Udyam or Startup India Certificate
- Business Address proof
- Signed TM-48 Form (Power of Attorney)
- Incorporation Certificate (for companies/LLPs)
🔢 Step-by-Step Trademark Registration for Startups/MSMEs
- Trademark Search – Check for brand name availability
- Choose Class – Select the right class (1–45) for your product/service
- Prepare Documents – Including Udyam/Startup certificate
- File TM-A Application – Online filing on IP India Portal
- Examination – Registrar checks for conflicts or objections
- Journal Publication – 4-month window for public opposition
- Registration – Get the certificate and start using the ® symbol
⏳ Time Required
- With no objections: 6–8 months
- With objection or opposition: 9–14 months
Your trademark rights begin from the application date, not the approval date.
🛡 Benefits of Trademark for Startups & MSMEs
- ✔️ Legal protection from day one
- ✔️ Boosts brand credibility and investor confidence
- ✔️ Enables franchising, licensing, and expansion
- ✔️ Cost-effective registration (₹4,500 vs. ₹9,000)
- ✔️ Long-term value — valid for 10 years, renewable
📢 Why Choose eApply.co.in?
At eApply, we help Startups and MSMEs register their trademarks affordably and correctly:
✅ Free brand name search
✅ Document preparation
✅ Filing under Startup/MSME category
✅ Objection support
✅ End-to-end trademark assistance
🎯 Packages starting at ₹1,499 only + Govt. Fee
Ready to Protect Your Brand?
Let eApply help you secure your startup’s identity.
💬 Chat now or 📞 Call us for expert trademark support
