Stand-Up India
Empowering Women & SC/ST Entrepreneurs
Stand-Up India facilitates bank loans between ₹10 Lakhs and ₹1 Crore to at least one SC or ST borrower and at least one woman borrower per bank branch.
In a bid to promote entrepreneurship at the grass-root level, the Stand-Up India Scheme was launched to leverage the institutional credit structure to reach out to the underserved sectors of the population.
The scheme specifically targets Scheduled Castes (SC), Scheduled Tribes (ST), and Women entrepreneurs, helping them set up their first business ventures (Greenfield Enterprises).
It provides a comprehensive support system that includes not only credit but also handholding support through a network of agencies like SIDBI and NABARD.
“Stand-Up India is about standing up for those who have been left behind. It's about turning job seekers into job creators.”
What is the Stand-Up India Scheme?
The scheme mandates every bank branch to provide at least two loans: one to a woman and one to an SC/ST entrepreneur. This ensures widespread reach across thousands of bank branches in India.
The loan covers 75% of the project cost. The entrepreneur is expected to contribute at least 10% of the project cost from their own funds, and the rest can be converged with other subsidy schemes.
The interest rate is the lowest applicable rate of the bank for that category (base rate + tenor premium + 3%).
Who is Eligible for the Stand-Up India?
Who can apply?
SC/ST/Women
Must be above 18 years of age.
Greenfield Projects
The scheme is ONLY for setting up your FIRST business venture in manufacturing, services, or trading.
Non-Individual Entities
At least 51% of the shareholding and controlling stake should be held by either an SC/ST or woman entrepreneur.
ℹ️ Eligibility Checklist:
- •Borrower should not be in default to any bank/financial institution.
- •Only for greenfield (new) projects.
- •Project must be in Manufacturing, Services, or Trading sectors.
What Types of Projects are Covered?
Sectors covered:
Trading
Setting up a retail showroom, distribution center, or e-commerce hub.
Services
Starting a hospitality venture, clinic, IT hub, or professional service firm.
Manufacturing
Establishing a small factory, processing unit, or assembly line.
Agri-Allied
Dairy, poultry, food processing, etc. (Recently added).
Key Benefits
Funding
₹1 Cr
High-value loans up to ₹100 Lakhs for significant business scale.
Project Cost
85%
The loan can cover up to 85% of the project cost if combined with other subsidies.
Lending Institutions
Various financial institutions provide loans under this scheme:
- ✓All Scheduled Commercial Banks
- ✓Regional Rural Banks
- ✓Direct application via Standupmitra portal
How to Apply? (Step-by-Step)
Registration
Applying through the Standupmitra portal and selecting 'Trainee Borrower' or 'Ready Borrower'.
Apply on Standupmitra →Handholding Support
If you need help, the portal connects you with agencies for training, project report preparation, and mentoring.
Bank Selection
Selecting the preferred bank branch for your loan application.
Appraisal & Sanction
The bank evaluates the proposal and sanctions the loan based on feasibility.
ℹ️ Approval Timeline: 30-45 days.
Documents Required
Note: The 'Greenfield' status is strictly checked. Ensure this is your first time starting this business.
Common Mistakes Applicants Make
⚠️ brownfield Application
Applying for an existing business or expanding an old one.
⚠️ Inadequate Promoters' Contribution
Failing to show the minimum 10% own contribution in the project.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I get a loan for a shop?
Yes, trading activities are fully covered.
What is the repayment period?
7 years with a maximum moratorium of 18 months.
Conclusion
Stand-Up India is a life-changing opportunity for entrepreneurs who have the vision but lack the high-value capital. It bypasses the usual barriers to large-scale credit.
We provide specialized handholding—from verifying your greenfield status to getting your DPR ready for high-value bank appraisal.
Ready to Stand Up?
Let's check if your project qualifies for the ₹1 Crore Stand-Up India loan.
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