DGFT Expands Source from India Access for Start-ups

The Directorate General of Foreign Trade (DGFT) has expanded access to the “Source from India” feature on the Trade Connect ePlatform for eligible DPIIT-recognized start-ups.

Through Trade Notice No. 16/2026-27 dated 6 August 2026, DGFT has enabled eligible start-ups to create profiles on the platform and showcase their products and credentials to international buyers. The initiative is intended to improve buyer discovery and support innovation-led Indian exports.

The latest trade notice also provides specific eligibility relaxations and a registration process for start-ups seeking to use the facility.

What Has DGFT Changed for Start-ups?

DPIIT-recognized Start-ups Can Register

DGFT has decided to amend the eligibility criteria so that DPIIT-recognized start-ups meeting the prescribed conditions can register under the “Source from India” feature on Trade Connect.

Eligible start-ups will also receive a unique start-up badge mapped to their profiles. Their onboarding may be completed after verification of export activity through the DGFT IEC database.

Special Relaxation for Certain Start-ups

The trade notice provides an additional exception for DPIIT-recognized start-ups.

Such start-ups may register on “Source from India” even if they do not meet the stated export eligibility criteria, provided they:

  • Hold an active IEC; and
  • Are not included in the DEL list.

This exception is specifically intended to facilitate participation by recognized start-ups.

Why This Matters for Start-up Exporters

DPIIT-recognized start-ups are increasingly contributing innovative products and services to international markets. DGFT states that giving these businesses visibility through an official buyer-discovery platform can support export growth and diversification of India’s export basket.

The facility can help eligible start-ups:

  • Showcase products to international buyers
  • Create a digital business profile
  • Present their export credentials
  • Improve buyer discovery
  • Gain visibility through the official Source from India platform

How Can Eligible Start-ups Register?

The annexure to Trade Notice No. 16/2026-27 provides the registration process.

Step 1: Maintain a Trade Connect Account

The start-up must have a valid user account on the Trade Connect ePlatform.

Businesses already registered on the DGFT platform can use the same credentials to log in to Trade Connect. There is no need to register again.

Step 2: Link the IEC

The user account must be linked to a valid and eligible Importer Exporter Code (IEC).

The Trade Connect platform provides an option to link the IEC through the account settings.

Step 3: Create the “Source from India” Microsite

After logging in with the email address linked to the eligible IEC, users can select the “Create Source from India Profile” option from the dashboard.

The option is available to users whose profiles are linked to an eligible IEC.

Step 4: Submit Export Details and Declarations

The applicant must provide the required export achievements and declarations before submitting the profile for approval.

Once approved, the profile will become publicly visible on the Source from India section of Trade Connect.

Existing Trade Connect Users Get an Automatic Option

Start-up users already registered on Trade Connect, whose profiles are linked to eligible IECs and qualify under the prescribed conditions, will automatically see the option to create a “Source from India” microsite on their dashboard.

DGFT has also indicated that a detailed guide has been provided with the trade notice for step-by-step assistance.

Role of Indian Missions and Export Promotion Bodies

DGFT has also highlighted the role of Indian Missions Abroad in using “Source from India” as a reference point when foreign buyers approach missions seeking Indian suppliers.

In addition, Export Promotion Councils, Commodity Boards and Industry Associations have been requested to publicize the trade notice and encourage eligible members to participate.

Note for DPIIT-Recognized Start-ups

Note: Start-ups should verify that their IEC is active and that their Trade Connect account is correctly linked before attempting to create the “Source from India” profile. Start-ups relying on the special exception should also ensure that they satisfy the conditions specified in the trade notice, including the requirement that they are not included in the DEL list.

Conclusion

DGFT’s latest Trade Notice provides DPIIT-recognized start-ups with greater access to the “Source from India” facility on the Trade Connect ePlatform.

By enabling eligible start-ups to create profiles, showcase products and connect with international buyer-discovery initiatives, the framework aims to strengthen the visibility of India’s innovation-led exporters.

Start-ups that meet the applicable conditions should review their IEC, Trade Connect account and export credentials and complete their profile registration where eligible.

Notification Reference:

DGFT
Trade Notice No. 16/2026-27
06/08/2026

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