Stand Up India Scheme

Why this scheme matters now

Stand Up India Scheme is a Business initiative targeting residents across India. The Stand Up India Scheme was launched to promote entrepreneurship at the grassroots level specifically focusing on economic empowerment and job creation among Scheduled Castes (SC), Scheduled Tribes (ST), and Women entrepreneurs Applications are routed through the official portal, so save the link for reference.

Available across states, yet district offices may still ask for local attestations.

📌 About This Scheme

The Stand Up India Scheme was launched to promote entrepreneurship at the grassroots level specifically focusing on economic empowerment and job creation among Scheduled Castes (SC), Scheduled Tribes (ST), and Women entrepreneurs. The scheme facilitates bank loans between ₹10 lakh and ₹1 crore to at least one SC or ST borrower and at least one woman borrower per bank branch of all scheduled commercial banks. These loans are provided for setting up a 'greenfield enterprise,' which refers to the first-time venture of the beneficiary in the manufacturing, services, agri-allied activities, or the trading sector. In the case of non-individual enterprises, at least 51% of the shareholding and controlling stake should be held by either an SC/ST or a woman entrepreneur. The scheme recognizes that these groups often face significant hurdles in accessing capital and mentorship. Therefore, it provides a comprehensive support system that includes handholding assistance through a network of agencies like SIDBI and NABARD. This support helps applicants with the preparation of business plans, understanding of financial terms, and navigating the regulatory requirements for starting a business. The loan is repayable in 7 years with a maximum moratorium period of 18 months. To further reduce the risk for banks and encourage lending, the government has created the Credit Guarantee Fund Scheme for Stand-Up India (CGFSI). By targeting these specific demographics, Stand Up India aims to leverage the untapped entrepreneurial potential of women and marginalized sections, thereby fostering a more inclusive and diverse economic environment in India. It empowers individuals to transition from job seekers to job creators, significantly impacting the local and national economy.

📄 Required Documents

• ✓Aadhaar Card
• ✓Caste Certificate (for SC/ST)
• ✓Business Address Proof
• ✓Project Report
• ✓Bank Statement for last 6 months
• ✓Pollution Clearance (if applicable)

🛠️ How to Apply