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Overview

The Indian government offers several government business loans to support the growth and development of Micro, Small, and Medium Enterprises (MSMEs) and to encourage entrepreneurship. These schemes aim to address funding challenges faced by new and existing businesses, providing access to capital at affordable interest rates and with flexible repayment options.

For many entrepreneurs, however, it can be difficult to handle documentation, eligibility criteria and application processes. This is the place where the Vakilsearch steps in.

With expertise in business development and the legal sector, Vakilsearch has successfully led thousands of startups and MSME to secure state funding. From identifying the correct loan scheme to the submission of a spontaneous application - our team ensures that you receive the necessary support at all stages.

What is a Government Business Loan in India?

Government business loans are credit facilities that the government provides through banks and other financial institutions to help companies, especially startups, entrepreneurs and micro, small and medium -sized companies (MSME), including production, trade and services in a wide range of industries. The purpose of these loans is to help these organisations start, grow or maintain their businesses, which will promote entrepreneurship, create jobs and accelerate financial expansion.

Who Can Apply for Government Loans for Business?

Eligibility varies by scheme, but most require the applicant to demonstrate capability and credibility to run the proposed business.

  • General Eligibility Criteria:

    • Indian Citizenship: Must be an Indian citizen aged 18 or above.
    • Eligible Entities: Individuals, sole proprietors, partnerships, and companies.
    • Business Type: Should engage in manufacturing, trading, or services.
    • Creditworthiness: A strong credit history is preferred.
    • Business Plan: A viable plan with growth potential is essential.
    • Relevant Experience: Industry-related skills or experience may be required.
    • Scheme Compliance: Must meet scheme-specific criteria like sector, location, or size.

Several targeted schemes support entrepreneurs and small businesses in India. MUDRA Loans cater to individuals and MSMEs in both rural and urban areas. Stand-Up India focuses on empowering women and SC/ST entrepreneurs. The Credit Guarantee Fund Trust for Micro and Small Enterprises (CGTMSE) supports MSMEs in manufacturing and services, excluding sectors like retail, agriculture, and education. Additionally, the Startup India Seed Fund provides early-stage financial assistance to DPIIT-recognized startups under two years old with innovative or tech-based solutions.

List of Popular Government Loan Schemes for Businesses (2025)

Here is a list of top government-backed loan schemes designed to empower startups, MSMEs, and entrepreneurs across India. These programs offer tailored financial support to fuel your business growth in 2025.

Scheme NameLoan Amount Eligibility Key Benefits Interest/Subsidy
Pradhan Mantri MUDRA Yojana (PMMY) ₹50,000 – ₹10 Lakh MSMEs & micro units Collateral-free, no processing charges, accessible via banks and MFIs Interest rates determined by MCLR; typically starts from 7%
Stand Up India Scheme ₹10 Lakh – ₹1 Crore SC/ST/Women entrepreneurs; Greenfield projects only Composite loans (term + working capital), 85% project cost funding, training support Interest rate: Bank's lowest applicable rate; repayment tenure: 7 years (including moratorium)
SIDBI Direct Loans ₹10 Lakh – ₹25 Crore SMEs, Startups Expansion and working capital support, term lending, and refinancing options Varies by loan; subject to SIDBI's terms and conditions
Credit Linked Capital Subsidy Scheme (CLCSS) Up to ₹1 Crore MSMEs investing in technology upgradation Capital subsidy for technology upgradation, enhances competitiveness Subsidy percentage varies based on scheme guidelines
Business Activity Loan Varies Entrepreneurs in various sectors Tailored loans for specific business activities, flexible repayment options Interest rates and terms vary by lender and business activity
National Small Industries Corporation Ltd. (NSIC) Schemes Varies MSMEs Marketing support, raw material assistance, credit support, and technology support Terms and conditions vary based on specific NSIC schemes
Prime Minister's Employment Generation Programme (PMEGP) ₹10 Lakh (manufacturing) – ₹5 Lakh (service) New micro-enterprises; specific eligibility criteria apply Credit-linked subsidy, employment generation focus, support for rural and urban areas Subsidy: 15–35% of project cost, depending on category and location
Portfolio Credit Guarantee Scheme (PCGS) Varies Financial institutions providing loans to MSMEs Credit guarantee cover for MSME loans, encourages lending to MSMEs Guarantee cover: 50–85% of loan amount, depending on scheme guidelines
MUDRA Bank Refinancing Scheme Varies MFIs and NBFCs providing loans to micro-enterprises Refinance facility for MFIs and NBFCs, promoting micro-enterprise financing Terms and conditions vary based on refinancing agreements
Mudra Loan ₹50,000 – ₹10 Lakh Micro-enterprises Collateral-free loans, no processing charges, accessible via banks and MFIs Interest rates determined by MCLR; typically starts from 7%
FAQsN/A N/A Provides answers to common queries regarding government business loans N/A
Livelihood Loan Varies Individuals and groups engaged in livelihood activities Financial support for livelihood activities, promoting self-employment and income generation Interest rates and terms vary by lender and activity type
NEEDS Scheme (National Equity and Development Scheme) Varies Entrepreneurs from specific regions and sectors Equity support for setting up new enterprises, promoting regional development Terms and conditions vary based on scheme guidelines
Refinance Scheme for Banks/NBFCs/MFIs Varies Banks, NBFCs, and MFIs providing loans to micro-enterprises Refinance facility to financial institutions, promoting micro-enterprise financing Terms and conditions vary based on refinancing agreements
Startup India Scheme VariesDPIIT-recognized startups Tax exemptions, funding support, self-certification, and easier compliance Terms and conditions vary based on scheme guidelines
Udyogini Scheme Varies Women entrepreneurs; specific eligibility criteria apply Financial assistance for women entrepreneurs, promoting self-employment and income generation Terms and conditions vary based on scheme guidelines

Unlock Your Business Potential with Government Loans

Get tailored funding solutions designed to help startups and MSMEs thrive in 2025.

Talk to a Loan Advisor Today

Benefits of Government Business Loans

Government business loans offer affordable financing with low interest rates and flexible terms. They support start -up and MSME-s with easy access to capital, often without security requirements.

  • Lower interest rates – Government loans for startups come with reduced rates, making repayment easier.
  • Collateral-free options – Many subsidy loans in India are offered without requiring heavy security.
  • Inclusive schemes – Special loan programs support women, SC/ST, and rural entrepreneurs.
  • Credit guarantee support – Reduces lender risk, encouraging wider access to finance.
  • Government interest subsidies – Extra relief through partial interest coverage under approved schemes.

Step-by-Step Process to Apply for Government Business Loans

Want to know how to apply for a government business loan in India? Follow these simple steps to get started:

  • Step 1: Determine your eligibility – Check scheme-specific requirements (age, category, turnover, etc.).
  • Step 2: Choose a suitable scheme – Options include MUDRA, CGTMSE, and other startup-focused subsidy loans.
  • Step 3: Register your business – Complete [Udyam registration] or [Company Incorporation] as applicable.
  • Step 4: Prepare a project report/business plan – A strong plan boosts approval chances. (See: [Business Plan Drafting])
  • Step 5: Apply via bank/SIDBI/loan portal – Submit your documents online or at the nearest bank branch.
  • Step 6: Await approval and disbursement – Once verified, funds are sanctioned directly to your account.

Documents Required for Business Loan Application

To apply smoothly, you’ll need to submit the following documents for startup government loan approval:

  • Business registration certificate (Udyam or ROC incorporation documents)
  • PAN and Aadhaar of the applicant/promoter
  • Project report / business plan detailing financial projections
  • Recent bank statements (usually last 6–12 months)
  • GST registration certificate (if applicable)
  • KYC documents – Address and identity proof
  • CIBIL score report (optional but preferred by lenders)

Government Loans vs Private Business Loans (Comparison Table)

Comparing government and private business loans helps identify the right financing option for your needs. Here's a quick breakdown of key differences in terms, eligibility, and benefits.

FeatureGovernment Business Loan Private Business Loan
Interest Rate6–12%14–24%
CollateralOften not requiredUsually required
EligibilityRegistered businesses (Udyam/MSME)Flexible, varies by lender
Processing TimeSlower due to due diligenceFaster approval
SubsidiesAvailable (interest & credit support)Not available

How Vakilsearch Helps You Secure Government Loans

Protecting government loans can be complicated for startups, but Vakilsearch simplifies the process for you. Our experts assist with eligibility evaluation, identify the most appropriate loan scheme and provide full documentation help. In order to ensure uniform compliance with state compliance with loans, Vakilsearch ensures that your funding journey is stress -free and effective.

Get expert guidance to unlock the right government loan for your business growth!

Consult Today

FAQs on Government Business Loans

A government business loan is financial support provided under schemes like MUDRA, CGTMSE, or Stand Up India, offering subsidised interest rates, collateral-free credit, and assistance for startups, MSMEs, and entrepreneurs.
Eligibility depends on the scheme. Generally, Indian citizens with registered startups, MSMEs, or new ventures under Udyam or ROC can apply. Specific criteria apply for women, SC/ST, and rural entrepreneurs.
MUDRA loans usually carry 8–12% interest, while Stand Up India loans are around 9–12%, depending on the bank, borrower profile, and government subsidies offered.
No, CGTMSE loans are collateral-free. The scheme provides a credit guarantee to banks, reducing risk for lenders and making it easier for small businesses to access loans without security.
Yes, individuals like proprietors and small businesses can apply under MUDRA. However, for higher loan amounts or specific schemes, formal registration under Udyam or ROC is usually required.
MUDRA targets micro and small businesses with loans up to ₹10 lakh, while Stand Up India focuses on women and SC/ST entrepreneurs, offering loans between ₹10 lakh–₹1 crore.
Depending on the scheme, new entrepreneurs can secure between ₹50,000 (MUDRA Shishu) and ₹1 crore (Stand Up India). Loan amount depends on project needs, credit profile, and eligibility.
Yes, schemes like Stand Up India, Mahila Udyam Nidhi, and Annapurna Yojana specifically provide subsidised business loans for women entrepreneurs to support financial independence and business growth.
Key documents include business registration certificate, PAN, Aadhaar, project report, GST registration, bank statements, KYC, and sometimes CIBIL score report, depending on the chosen loan scheme.
Yes, Vakilsearch provides end-to-end assistance, including eligibility checks, scheme selection, documentation, application filing, and compliance support to help you successfully secure government loans for your business.
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