a promising development for individual entrepreneurs, the Government of India is considering a policy change that would allow sole traders to access government-supported incubation centres across the country. The proposal, currently under review by the Ministry of MSME and the Department for Promotion of Industry and Internal Trade (DPIIT), aims to extend the benefits of startup infrastructure—such as mentorship, co-working spaces, technology labs, and seed funding—to sole proprietors who have traditionally been excluded from such facilities due to structural constraints in eligibility criteria.

This shift comes in recognition of the significant role played by sole traders in India’s entrepreneurial landscape, particularly in the domains of local manufacturing, services, technology, and creative industries. Government officials have noted that sole traders often operate with innovative ideas and strong local impact, but lack access to support systems that can help them scale and formalize. The proposed policy change would allow registered sole proprietors, especially those listed under Udyam or Startup India platforms, to apply for entry into incubation programs previously reserved for registered companies or LLPs.

If approved, the initiative would open up over 400 government-affiliated incubation centres—including those linked to Atal Innovation Mission (AIM), Startup India hubs, and academic institutions—for individual business owners. The plan also includes provisions for technical training, business development workshops, legal advisory support, and digital tools integration tailored to the needs of single-owner ventures. Industry experts and entrepreneur networks have welcomed the move as a long-overdue reform that will democratize access to innovation ecosystems and foster inclusive entrepreneurship. A formal announcement is expected in the upcoming policy session, potentially redefining how India nurtures and supports its smallest but most agile business segment.