What this scheme offers
Stand-Up India mandates that every scheduled commercial bank branch support at least one SC/ST borrower and one woman borrower with a loan to set up a new "greenfield" enterprise — in manufacturing, services, trading, or agriculture-allied activity. Loans range from ₹10 lakh to ₹1 crore, covering both working capital and term loan needs. All loans are covered under the NCGTC Credit Guarantee Scheme, meaning the government guarantees the bank against default — so no property, gold, or personal guarantor is required from the borrower. Repayment runs up to 7 years, with a moratorium of up to 18 months.
Who is eligible
- SC/ST individuals, and women entrepreneurs of any caste or community (including General category), aged 18 or above.
- Must be setting up a new (greenfield) enterprise — not for expanding or refinancing an existing business.
- For a non-individual enterprise, at least 51% of the controlling stake must be held by an SC/ST or woman entrepreneur.
- Should not be a defaulter with any bank or financial institution.
- Applicant should be able to contribute at least 10% of the project cost as margin money.
Documents required
- Identity and address proof (Aadhaar, PAN, etc.)
- Caste certificate, where applying under the SC/ST category
- Detailed project report / business plan
- Educational and business-related certificates, where applicable
- Bank account details
How to apply
- Visit the Stand-Up India portal (standupmitra.in) and register as a new user.
- Select your category (SC/ST entrepreneur or woman entrepreneur) and fill in your personal and business details.
- Prepare a detailed project report — the strength of this report significantly affects approval chances.
- Choose your preferred bank branch, or apply directly at any scheduled commercial bank branch.
- The bank evaluates your application and project report; approvals are typically processed within 30–60 days of complete documentation.
- Handholding support is available throughout the process via the portal's mentoring network.