Government Waives Fees for Women-led Section 8 Startups

In a landmark move to empower women entrepreneurs in the non-profit space, the Government of India has announced a complete waiver of incorporation fees for women-led Section 8 companies. The initiative, launched by the Ministry of Corporate Affairs (MCA), aims to encourage more women to lead charitable and social impact ventures by reducing initial financial barriers to formal registration.

Under the new policy, Section 8 companies where all promoters or a majority of directors are women will be eligible for exemption from government fees related to key filings, including SPICe+ incorporation forms, MOA and AOA submissions, and Director Identification Number (DIN) applications. The waiver is applicable for new registrations initiated from the current financial year and will be processed automatically through the MCA21 portal upon submission of valid identity and gender documentation.

Officials clarified that the exemption applies only to statutory government fees and does not cover charges imposed by professional service providers or private certification agencies. The policy is part of a broader national push to enhance women’s participation in governance, entrepreneurship, and community development through structured policy support.

Non-profit experts and social sector advocates have widely praised the initiative, calling it a transformative step that acknowledges the growing role of women in driving grassroots change. By reducing the cost of entry, the waiver is expected to boost the number of female-led social enterprises focused on education, health, environment, and women’s welfare.

This progressive policy highlights the government’s commitment to gender-inclusive development and the creation of a supportive regulatory environment for women in the non-profit sector. It not only incentivizes formalization but also sends a strong signal that women-led initiatives are key to building a more equitable and empowered India.