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 www.standupmitra.in
Click on “New Entrepreneur”
Register with your name, email, and mobile number
Verify via OTP, create a user ID and password
Fill in your business location, required loan amount, and category (SC/ST/Women)
Submit your application
Visit the nearest bank branch or
Meet your District Lead Manager
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