Government SchemeActive in 2026

Govt. scheme · Stand Up India

Stand Up India Scheme

Reviewed by Jay Patel· Last reviewed: 25 Apr 2026stale

Co-Founder & Chief Loan Advisor

The Stand Up India scheme facilitates bank loans between Rs 10 Lakh and Rs 1 Crore to at least one SC/ST borrower and one woman borrower per bank branch for setting up a greenfield enterprise. This initiative addresses the significant credit gap faced by SC/ST communities and women in India's entrepreneurial ecosystem. The scheme covers composite loans (working capital + term loan) for new enterprises in manufacturing, services, or trading sectors. With over 1.8 lakh loans sanctioned since 2016, Stand Up India is helping create a more inclusive business landscape. The scheme has been extended up to 2025 and is expected to continue through 2026.

Stand Up India Categories & Benefits

Overview of all Stand Up India loan categories with eligibility limits and key features.

Category	Max Amount	Interest Rate	Description
SC/ST Entrepreneur	Rs 10 Lakh – Rs 1 Crore	Base rate + 3% + tenor premium	For Scheduled Caste or Scheduled Tribe entrepreneurs starting a new manufacturing, services, or trading business. At least one loan per bank branch is reserved for SC/ST borrowers.
Woman Entrepreneur	Rs 10 Lakh – Rs 1 Crore	Base rate + 3% + tenor premium	For women entrepreneurs of any caste or community starting a new greenfield enterprise. At least one loan per bank branch is reserved for women borrowers.

Stand Up India Eligibility Criteria

Check if you qualify for Stand Up India Scheme. These are the key eligibility requirements.

Who Can Apply

SC/ST and/or woman entrepreneur above 18 years of age
The enterprise must be a new (greenfield) venture — not an expansion or upgrade of existing business
In case of a non-individual enterprise, at least 51% controlling stake must be held by SC/ST or woman entrepreneur
Borrower should not be a defaulter with any bank or financial institution
The enterprise must be in manufacturing, services, or trading sector
Loan amount must be between Rs 10 Lakh and Rs 1 Crore (composite loan covering working capital + term loan)
Margin money should be up to 25% of the project cost (can be adjusted from convergence with other schemes)
Entrepreneur should have relevant skill/experience or undergo EDP (Entrepreneurship Development Programme)

Key Benefits

Composite loan covering both term loan and working capital in a single facility
Margin money requirement of only 25% — can be met through convergence with other government schemes
Repayment tenure of up to 7 years with moratorium period of up to 18 months
Handholding support through Stand Up Connect Centres (SUCC) and SIDBI
Credit Guarantee Fund Scheme (CGFSIL) coverage reduces bank risk and improves approval chances
Access to mentorship and skill development through government partners

Documents Required for Stand Up India

Keep these documents ready for a smooth application process.

Identity proof — Aadhaar card, PAN card, Voter ID, or Passport

Caste certificate from competent authority (for SC/ST category)

Address proof — utility bill, passport, or voter ID

Detailed project report (DPR) with financial projections

Quotations for machinery, equipment, and fit-out

Proof of business premises — rent agreement, NOC, or ownership documents

Educational and skill certificates (if applicable)

GST registration or Udyam registration (if already obtained)

Bank statements (6 months)

Passport-size photographs

Partnership deed or MOA/AOA (if non-individual enterprise)

How to Apply for Stand Up India — Step by Step

Money Matrix Hub guides you through every step of the process.

Visit the Stand Up India portal (standupmitra.in) or contact Money Matrix Hub for guided assistance

Prepare a detailed project report (DPR) — we can help you draft a bank-ready DPR

Select a bank branch and submit your application with all required documents

Bank reviews the DPR, verifies eligibility, and conducts site inspection if needed

Loan sanctioned and disbursed in stages — typically within 30–60 days of complete documentation

Stand Up India — Frequently Asked Questions

Answers to common questions about Stand Up India Scheme.

Can a general-category woman apply for Stand Up India?

Yes. The Stand Up India scheme has two reservation categories per bank branch: one for SC/ST entrepreneurs and one for women entrepreneurs. The women entrepreneur category is open to women of all castes and communities, including general category.

Can I use a Stand Up India loan for an existing business?

No. Stand Up India is exclusively for greenfield (new) enterprises. If you are looking to expand an existing business, consider MUDRA loans (up to Rs 10 Lakh) or regular MSME financing through Money Matrix Hub.

What is the interest rate for Stand Up India loans?

The interest rate is the lowest applicable rate of the bank for that category, which is typically the base rate (or MCLR) plus 3% plus tenor premium. The exact rate varies by bank but generally falls between 9% and 13% p.a. Money Matrix Hub compares rates from multiple banks to find you the best deal.

Where can I arrange the 25% margin money?

The 25% margin money can come from your own savings, or you can use convergence with other government schemes like MUDRA, state-level subsidy schemes, or PMEGP grants. Money Matrix Hub advisors can help identify the right convergence options for your city.

Is there a guarantee or collateral requirement?

Stand Up India loans are covered under the Credit Guarantee Fund Scheme for Stand Up India (CGFSIL), which provides a guarantee cover to banks. This significantly reduces the collateral burden. For loans up to Rs 25 Lakh, most banks do not require additional collateral beyond the CGFSIL cover.

How many Stand Up India loans can one person take?

Each eligible entrepreneur can avail of only one Stand Up India loan. However, if you have successfully repaid a Stand Up India loan, you may be eligible for other government-backed business loans. Money Matrix Hub can help you identify the right financing options.

Apply for Stand Up India in Your City

Click your city for location-specific guidance, local banks, and step-by-step application help.

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Ready to Apply for Stand Up India?

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