Stand-Up India Scheme 2026: Stand-Up India Scheme 2026 is once again in the spotlight for aspiring entrepreneurs who want to turn their business ideas into reality but struggle with funding. If you belong to the SC, ST, or women entrepreneur category, this government-backed loan scheme could be a real game changer. With loan support ranging from ₹10 lakh to ₹1 crore, the scheme is designed to encourage first-time entrepreneurs and help them build sustainable businesses across India.
What Is Stand-Up India
Stand-Up India is a flagship government initiative aimed at promoting entrepreneurship among Scheduled Castes, Scheduled Tribes, and women. Launched to support new business ventures, the scheme focuses on greenfield projects in manufacturing, services, trading, and agriculture-related activities. In 2026, the scheme continues with improved digital access, faster processing, and better coordination with banks, making it more accessible than ever for eligible applicants.
Loan Amount Explained
One of the biggest attractions of the Stand-Up India Scheme 2026 is the generous loan range. Eligible applicants can avail loans starting from ₹10 lakh and going up to ₹1 crore. This amount can be used to cover both term loans and working capital requirements. Typically, up to 75 percent of the project cost is funded through the loan, while the remaining contribution comes from the borrower’s own resources.
Who Can Apply
Eligibility under the Stand-Up India Scheme is clearly defined to ensure benefits reach the right people. The applicant must be an SC, ST, or a woman entrepreneur above 18 years of age. The business should be a greenfield enterprise, meaning it must be a first-time venture. For non-individual enterprises, at least 51 percent ownership and control must be with an eligible category member.
Businesses Covered Under Scheme
The scheme supports a wide range of business activities to encourage diverse entrepreneurship. Manufacturing units, service-based businesses, trading ventures, and agriculture allied activities are all eligible. Whether it is setting up a small factory, starting a logistics service, opening a retail business, or launching a food processing unit, Stand-Up India 2026 provides financial backing to help new entrepreneurs establish and grow their operations.
Interest Rate And Tenure
Loans under the Stand-Up India Scheme come with competitive interest rates linked to the bank’s marginal cost of funds. Generally, the interest rate is reasonable compared to unsecured business loans. The repayment tenure can extend up to seven years, including a moratorium period. This flexible repayment structure gives entrepreneurs enough breathing space to stabilize their business before full-scale repayments begin.
Key Benefits For Entrepreneurs
Beyond funding, the scheme offers several indirect benefits that make it attractive for first-time business owners. Applicants receive guidance through handholding support, skill development programs, and access to training resources. The scheme also encourages formalization of businesses, helping entrepreneurs build credit history, gain market confidence, and integrate into the formal economy with long-term growth potential.
How To Apply Online
Applying for the Stand-Up India Scheme 2026 is a straightforward online process. Interested candidates can visit the official Stand-Up India portal and register using basic details. After selecting the preferred bank and loan amount, applicants must submit their business plan and required documents. The portal connects applicants directly with banks, ensuring transparency, faster follow-ups, and reduced paperwork during the application process.
Documents You Will Need
To ensure smooth approval, applicants should keep all essential documents ready. These usually include identity proof, address proof, caste or category certificate if applicable, business plan, project report, bank statements, and educational or skill certificates if relevant. Having a clear and realistic project report significantly improves approval chances, as banks assess the viability and sustainability of the proposed business.
Final Word: Stand-Up India Scheme 2026
The Stand-Up India Scheme 2026 stands as a powerful opportunity for SC, ST, and women entrepreneurs who dream of building their own businesses but lack financial backing. With loans up to ₹1 crore, supportive repayment terms, and a strong focus on first-time ventures, the scheme truly empowers grassroots entrepreneurship. If you have a solid business idea and the determination to succeed, this scheme could be the stepping stone to your entrepreneurial journey.