The Stand-Up India Scheme is a flagship initiative by the Ministry of Finance, Government of India, launched to empower Scheduled Caste (SC), Scheduled Tribe (ST), and Women Entrepreneurs. It aims to facilitate easy access to bank loans ranging from ₹10 lakhs to ₹1 crore for setting up greenfield enterprises in the manufacturing, trading, services, and agriculture-allied sectors. The scheme ensures that every bank branch supports at least one SC/ST and one woman entrepreneur, promoting financial inclusion and entrepreneurial growth.

Key Highlights of SC/ST and Women Business Loans

• Scheme Name: Stand-Up India Scheme
• Launched By: Ministry of Finance, Government of India
• Managed By: SIDBI (Small Industries Development Bank of India)
• Loan Amount: ₹10 lakhs to ₹1 crore
• Beneficiaries: SC/ST and Women Entrepreneurs (18 years & above)
• Business Type: Greenfield (first-time ventures)
• Application Mode: Online & Offline

Objectives

• Promote entrepreneurship among underrepresented communities (SC/ST) and women
• Provide easy access to credit for launching new business ventures
• Ensure inclusive economic participation by facilitating loans from scheduled commercial banks
• Encourage greenfield projects in diverse sectors, including those allied to agriculture

Benefits of the Scheme

• Composite Loan between ₹10 lakh and ₹1 crore, including term loan and working capital
• Rupay Debit Card issued for working capital withdrawal
• Dedicated online portal (standupmitra.in) offering:

• Handholding support (training, mentoring, project reports)

• Assistance with application filing

• Utility support services

• Access to government subsidy schemes

Eligibility Criteria

• The applicant must be at least 18 years old
• Loans are provided for setting up greenfield enterprises (first-time ventures)
• SC/ST applicants (if male) and all women entrepreneurs are eligible
• In case of non-individual enterprises:

• Minimum 51% shareholding and controlling stake must be held by an SC/ST or a Woman entrepreneur
  • The applicant must not be a defaulter to any bank/financial institution

Eligible Activities

• Greenfield Projects in:

• Manufacturing sector

• Service sector

• Trading sector

• Activities allied to agriculture (e.g., food processing, dairy, poultry, fisheries, etc.)

How to Apply – Online Process

Step 1: Visit the Stand-Up India Official Portal
Step 2: Register as a new user by selecting:

• Category: SC / ST / Woman

• Stakeholding: 51% or more

• Business details: nature, location, investment, experience, etc.
  Step 3: Indicate if handholding support is required
  Step 4: Complete registration and submit
  Step 5: After registration, eligible applicants are connected with banks or LDMs to initiate the loan process

Offline Application Steps

• Approach any bank branch in your area.
• Or contact the Lead District Manager (LDM) of your district

• Find LDM Contact Here
  • Discuss your business idea and complete formalities with assistance

Necessary Documents for Application

• Identity Proof: PAN Card, Voter ID, Passport, Driving License
• Address Proof: Utility bills, Voter ID, Passport
• Business Address Proof
• Caste Certificate (for SC/ST applicants)
• Proof of non-default status from any financial institution
• MSME Registration (if applicable)
• Memorandum of Association / Partnership Deed
• Assets and liabilities statement, Income Tax Returns
• Rent agreement / Pollution Control clearance (if applicable)
• Certificate of Incorporation (for companies)
• Project Report:

• Business description, equipment details, supplier information

• Production and sales forecasts

• P&L projections, staffing plan, competitive landscape
  • Projected Balance Sheets (2 years for working capital, full term for term loans)
  • Title/lease deeds for securities offered as collateral

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Q: What is the loan amount offered under the scheme?
A: Loans between ₹10 lakh and ₹1 crore.

Q: What is the interest rate for Stand-Up India loans?
A: Interest rates are set by individual banks as per RBI guidelines, typically competitive for MSMEs.

Q: Who are the lending institutions under the scheme?
A: Scheduled commercial banks, including PSU, private, and RRBs.

Q: What is handholding support?
A: Assistance in training, mentoring, application, documentation, and project preparation.

Q: Who qualifies for allied agriculture activities?
A: Activities like food processing, dairy, fisheries, poultry, beekeeping, etc., fall under allied sectors.

Q: How is Stand-Up India different from Start-Up India?
A: Stand-Up India targets SC/ST and women entrepreneurs for loans; Start-Up India supports innovation-led registered startups with tax and regulatory benefits.

References & Useful Links

• Stand-Up India Official Website
• Scheme Guidelines
• Ministry of Finance – GOI
• RBI Bank Locator