Are you planning to start a new business? The Government of India is supporting aspiring entrepreneurs, especially from marginalized sections of society, through the Stand-Up India Scheme. Under this initiative, eligible individuals can avail loans ranging from ₹10 lakh to ₹1 crore to establish a new business.

The Stand-Up India Scheme, launched by the Ministry of Finance, aims to promote entrepreneurship among:

• Scheduled Castes (SC)

• Scheduled Tribes (ST)

• Women

The scheme provides financial assistance to set up greenfield enterprises in the manufacturing, service, trading, or agriculture sectors. A greenfield project refers to a business being started for the first time.

Each bank branch is mandated to provide loans to:

• At least one SC/ST entrepreneur

• At least one woman entrepreneur

This ensures inclusive economic growth by empowering underrepresented communities.

• Loan amount from ₹10 lakh to ₹1 crore

• Composite loan: includes term loan + working capital

• Rupay Debit Card issued for easy fund withdrawal

• Assistance with project report, training, application filing via SIDBI portal

• Handholding support through various agencies

• Applicant must be SC/ST or a woman entrepreneur, aged 18 or above

• Only for greenfield projects (first-time ventures)

• In case of partnership/company: 51% stake must be held by SC/ST or woman

• Applicant must not be a defaulter in any bank or financial institution

• Identity proof (Aadhaar, PAN, etc.)

• Address proof

• Proof of business location

• Caste certificate (if applicable)

• Partnership/Company registration documents

• ITR documents

• Assets & liabilities statements (for promoters/guarantors)

• Rent agreement, lease deed (if any)

• MSME/SSI Registration

• Project report with balance sheets for the next 2 years

• ROC certificate (for shareholding proof)

If loan required is over ₹25 lakh:

• Company profile

• Last 3 years' balance sheets

• Detailed project report with cost breakdown

• Manufacturing process details

• Up to 75% of the project cost (including both term loan & working capital)

• Maximum 7 years

• Includes moratorium period of up to 18 months

You can apply via:

• Visit the nearest bank branch or

• Meet your District Lead Manager

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Q1. What is the aim of the Stand-Up India Scheme?
To empower SC/ST and women entrepreneurs by providing loans for first-time business ventures.

Q2. How much loan can one get?
Between ₹10 lakh to ₹1 crore.

Q3. Can I reapply if my application is rejected?
Yes, identify the reason for rejection, rectify it, and reapply.

Q4. Is collateral required?
No credit guarantee is required under this scheme.

Q5. How is it different from Startup India?

• Stand-Up India: Focuses on SC/ST and women entrepreneurs for greenfield projects

• Startup India: Supports innovation-driven businesses regardless of background