Stand-Up India — Loans for Women & SC/ST Entrepreneurs — Frequently Asked Questions
Answers to the questions founders most often ask about Stand-Up India — Loans for Women & SC/ST Entrepreneurs — who qualifies, the funding amount, required documents and how the application works.
Frequently asked questions
Who can apply for a Stand-Up India loan?
Only women entrepreneurs and SC/ST entrepreneurs above 18 years of age are eligible. The business must be a greenfield project — meaning the borrower must be starting this specific business activity for the first time.
What is the loan amount available under Stand-Up India?
The loan amount ranges from ₹10 lakh to ₹1 crore. It covers up to 75% of the project cost; the remaining 25% must come from the promoter's own contribution (margin money).
What does 'greenfield project' mean?
A greenfield project means the borrower is starting a new business activity for the first time. If you already operate a business in the same activity, you are not eligible for Stand-Up India for that venture.
What is the repayment period and moratorium?
Loans are repayable in up to 7 years. There is an 18-month moratorium from the date of first disbursement, during which you do not need to pay EMIs. This gives you time to establish the business.
Does Stand-Up India take equity in my company?
No. Stand-Up India provides debt financing in the form of a composite bank loan. You retain full ownership; the bank does not take any equity stake.
Is collateral required for Stand-Up India loans?
Collateral requirements may be reduced as the loan can be covered under CGTMSE guarantee. However, the exact terms depend on the bank's assessment. Check with your chosen branch.
How do I apply for a Stand-Up India loan?
You can apply online at standupmitra.in or walk into any scheduled commercial bank branch that is Stand-Up India-enabled. Prepare a project report covering the business plan, project cost, and your margin contribution. You will need to provide identity proof (Aadhaar, PAN) and category proof (SC/ST certificate or proof of women entrepreneur status).
What is the application deadline?
The scheme is rolling and always open. You can apply at any time.
How much funding does Stand-Up India — Loans for Women & SC/ST Entrepreneurs provide?
Stand-Up India — Loans for Women & SC/ST Entrepreneurs provides ₹10L – ₹1Cr (range) as debt / loan. Always confirm the exact amount and any conditions on the official site, as figures can change between cohorts.
Is DPIIT recognition required for Stand-Up India — Loans for Women & SC/ST Entrepreneurs?
No. DPIIT (Startup India) recognition is not listed as a mandatory requirement for Stand-Up India — Loans for Women & SC/ST Entrepreneurs, though having it can strengthen your application and unlock other benefits.
Who offers Stand-Up India — Loans for Women & SC/ST Entrepreneurs?
Stand-Up India — Loans for Women & SC/ST Entrepreneurs is offered by Ministry of Finance, Govt of India, a government body. It is provided as non-dilutive funding.
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