How Can I Secure Contracts Without PF and ESIC Numbers in a Small Startup?

Our company is a startup manpower consultancy. Apart from myself, the owner, there is only one employee working here. Primarily, we are interested in staffing solutions. However, whenever we approach a company, they ask for our PF and ESIC numbers, which I do not have as I do not meet the minimum required employee count for applying for those.

My issue is that once I secure the first contract, I can hire staff as needed by the company and then apply for the necessary documents. However, I need those documents to secure the contract initially. How can I resolve this chicken-and-egg problem? Please assist.

Understanding the ESI Act, 1948, and EPF & MPs Act, 1952

1. The provisions of the ESI Act, 1948, and the EPF & MPs Act, 1952, are statutory in nature. A separate code number cannot be issued to any firm, factory, or establishment if the number of employees is less than required under the said enactments. However, you can inform the position to the companies with which you or your employer want to work. If your firm is selected as a contractor or assigned work, you can get the registration under the above Acts when the minimum number of employees is engaged by you.

2. To comply with the provisions of the above Acts until you engage the minimum number of employees, you can ensure compliance with the code numbers or Registration Numbers of the principal employers allotted under the above Acts.