Did you know that according to the Ministry of Commerce, over 8,000 startups received benefits worth ₹500 crore under various government initiatives between 2022–2024, and many scaled faster because of this crucial support.
India hosts over 100,000 startups, ranking as the third-largest startup ecosystem in the world. Yet, securing capital continues to be one of the biggest challenges, particularly for first-time founders and ventures in non-metro regions. According to NASSCOM, over 70% of early-stage startups struggle or fail due to insufficient financial backing.
To bridge this funding gap, the Indian government has launched targeted loan and grant schemes, many of which are collateral-free, cater to different segments (women, SC/ST, tech innovators, rural entrepreneurs), and are backed by formal credit guarantees.
1. Pradhan Mantri Mudra Yojana (PMMY)
PMMY provides loans through banks and NBFCs under the MUDRA initiative to support non-corporate micro and small enterprises in trading, manufacturing, and services.
- Shishu (₹0–50,000): Ideal for budding entrepreneurs starting with basic resources.
- Kishor (₹50,001–5 lakh): Meant for entrepreneurs looking to expand or strengthen their existing small businesses.
- Tarun (₹5–10 lakh): For more established enterprises requiring bigger investments.
Key Features
- No collateral needed
- Interest rates depend on the lender (typically 8%–12%)
- Can be used for working capital, machinery, stock, etc.
Eligibility
- Individuals, proprietors, and micro business owners
- No prior defaults in the banking system
- Must have a solid business plan
Registration Link: Pradhan Mantri Mudra Yojana (PMMY)
Apply via your bank or visit the MUDRA portal
2. Startup India Seed Fund Scheme (SISFS)
Funding Support
- Up to ₹20 lakh for proof-of-concept and prototype development
- Up to ₹50 lakh for product development, scaling, and market entry
Key Features
- No equity dilution
- Disbursed through government-approved incubators
- Offers both funding and mentorship
Eligibility
- DPIIT-registered startups (within 2 years of incorporation)
- Product/solution must be innovative and scalable
- Should not have received other government grant support
3. Atal Innovation Mission (AIM)
Atal Innovation Mission (AIM): An initiative led by NITI Aayog, AIM aims to foster a culture of innovation and entrepreneurship across India, with a particular focus on nurturing students and grassroots innovators.
Programs under AIM
- Atal Incubation Centres (AICs): Offer funding, co-working space, and mentoring to startups.
- Atal Tinkering Labs (ATLs): Innovation labs in schools.
- ARISE: Support for MSMEs to solve government challenges through innovation.
Key Features
- Funding up to ₹10 crores for incubators (indirectly benefits startups)
- Strong focus on tech, social, and scalable impact innovation
- Connects startups with ministries and global mentors
Eligibility
- Startups, educational institutions, and MSMEs can collaborate or apply to incubators supported by AIM
Registration Link: Apply via the AIM portal
4. Credit Guarantee Fund Trust for Micro and Small Enterprises (CGTMSE)
Loan Amount Covered
- Up to ₹5 crore, with up to 85% guarantee coverage by the government in case of default
Key Features
- Encourages lenders to provide loans without asking for collateral
- Widely used by both new and existing businesses
- Available through over 130 registered banks/NBFCs
Eligibility
- Any new or existing micro or small enterprise (MSE)
- Should not be a defaulter in the banking system
Registration Link: Lenders apply directly; check CGTMSE details here
5. Stand Up India Scheme
Loan Type
- Composite loan: Includes both term loan and working capital
- Can cover up to 75% of the project cost
Key Features
- Focused on first-time entrepreneurs
- Encourages self-employment in manufacturing, services, and trading
- Collateral-free via CGTMSE, plus handholding support
Eligibility
- SC/ST or women entrepreneurs aged 18+
- Must own at least 51% of the business
- Greenfield (new) enterprise only
6. Credit Guarantee Scheme for Startups (CGSS)
Guarantee Coverage
- Loans of up to ₹10 crore covered
- Government provides up to 75% risk coverage
Key Features
- Provides assurance to lenders for high-risk startup funding
- Encourages institutional lending to startups
- Applicable to term loans and working capital
Eligibility
- Must be a DPIIT-recognized startup
- Loans must be availed from eligible lending institutions
- Must be engaged in innovation, development, or improvement of products/services
Registration Link: Register your startup with DPIIT first to become eligible
7. Prime Minister’s Employment Generation Programme (PMEGP)
Financial Support
- Loan up to ₹25 lakh for manufacturing, ₹10 lakh for service
- Subsidy: 15%–35% based on category and location
Key Features
- Combines loan and subsidy
- Open to youth, rural, urban, and SC/ST/women entrepreneurs
- Includes entrepreneurship training via KVIC/DIC
Eligibility
- Individuals aged 18+, 8th pass
- Must set up a new project
- No prior government loan/subsidy
Registration Link: Apply via the PMEGP e-portal
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8. Takeaways: Which Scheme Should You Choose?
Each of these government schemes addresses a specific need, stage, and type of entrepreneur:
- If you’re just starting with a local business: PMMY or PMEGP
- If you’re building something innovative or tech-driven: SISFS, AIM, or CGSS
- If you’re a woman or SC/ST entrepreneur: Stand Up India
- If you’re looking for collateral-free working capital or equipment loans: CGTMSE
Bonus Tip
Start by getting your startup recognized on Startup India for wider access.
9. FAQ's
Yes, as long as the purposes and criteria don’t overlap. For example, you can get a PMEGP loan and apply for CGTMSE credit guarantee separately.
10. Unlocking Growth: Why Every Entrepreneur Must Explore These Top Government Startup Loan Schemes
These startup schemes are not just financial products—they are powerful enablers.
Don’t leave money, support, or mentorship on the table. Check your eligibility, prepare your documents, and apply.
Leveraging these schemes could be the game-changing decision that transforms your venture from survival mode to scale mode.
Start today; because scaling smart beats struggling hard.
Article Contribution by: Sapna Garg