Stand-Up India was launched in April 2016 to promote entrepreneurship among women and Scheduled Caste (SC) and Scheduled Tribe (ST) communities. It is run by the Department of Financial Services, with SIDBI managing the online Stand-Up Mitra portal.
What the scheme offers
Bank loans between Rs 10 lakh and Rs 1 crore for setting up a new enterprise in manufacturing, services, trading or activities allied to agriculture. The scheme aims for every bank branch of scheduled commercial banks to give at least one such loan to an SC or ST borrower and at least one to a woman borrower.
Who is eligible
- SC or ST individuals, or women, aged 18 years and above.
- The loan must be for a greenfield enterprise, meaning a first time venture of the beneficiary.
- For non individual enterprises, at least 51 percent of the shareholding and controlling stake must be held by an SC, ST or woman entrepreneur.
- The borrower should not be in default to any bank or financial institution.
Loan features
- A composite loan covering term loan and working capital.
- The loan can cover up to 75 percent of the project cost, as per scheme guidelines. The borrower’s contribution can include support from other schemes.
- Repayment period of up to 7 years, with a moratorium of up to 18 months.
- Interest rate as per the bank’s rules, within the limits set under the scheme.
- Credit guarantee support through the Credit Guarantee Fund for Stand-Up India loans.
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Handholding support
The Stand-Up Mitra portal connects applicants with support agencies for training, project report preparation, mentoring and links to other schemes.
How to apply
- Visit standupmitra.in and register.
- Fill in the details of the proposed business.
- Choose to apply directly to a bank or seek handholding support.
- You can also apply at a bank branch or through the lead district manager.
Current status
The scheme has been extended by the government over the years. In the Union Budget 2025-26, the government also announced a new scheme for first time women, SC and ST entrepreneurs. Check the portal and the Department of Financial Services for the latest status and guidelines.
Bottom line
Stand-Up India offers bank loans of Rs 10 lakh to Rs 1 crore for first time ventures of women and SC, ST entrepreneurs, with handholding through the Stand-Up Mitra portal.
Source / स्रोत: Stand-Up Mitra portal, SIDBI, Department of Financial Services
