# India Extends Stand-Up India Scheme to Support Marginalized Entrepreneurs Government extends credit initiative until 2031 to empower women and SC/ST business owners. - **Source:** [mint - money](https://www.livemint.com/rss/money) - **Published:** 2026-11-11 - **Topic:** [Finance](https://brifing.si/c/finance) - **Original article:** - **On Brifing:** https://brifing.si/s/cdf4166a-5960-4721-bc95-d974ef72d396 ## Five-Year Scheme Extension The Union Cabinet recently approved the continuation of the Stand-Up India scheme for another five years. This extension pushes the program deadline to March 31, 2031. The government aims to provide financial assistance to at least 2.5 lakh additional entrepreneurs from women, Scheduled Castes, and Scheduled Tribes during this new period. ## Financial Support Framework The government has approved a credit guarantee corpus of ₹4,111 crore to bolster lending activities. This initiative facilitates loans ranging from above ₹10 lakh to ₹1 crore for greenfield enterprises. These are businesses established for the first time by the beneficiary, covering sectors like manufacturing, services, trading, and agriculture-allied activities. ## Loan Terms and Flexibility Borrowers benefit from a composite loan facility that combines term loans and working capital requirements. The repayment period can extend up to seven years, including a moratorium of up to 18 months. Additionally, the scheme provides credit guarantee coverage of 85% of the loan amount, with a standard guarantee fee of 0.50%. ## Eligibility and Ownership Criteria Applicants must be at least 18 years old and belong to the specified categories. For non-individual enterprises, women or SC/ST entrepreneurs must hold at least 51% of the shareholding and controlling stake. Furthermore, the applicant must not be in default with any bank or financial institution to qualify for the funding. ## Margin Money and Contribution Borrowers are required to contribute at least 10% of the project cost from their own funds. However, margin money support of up to 15% of the total project cost can be arranged through convergence with other eligible Central and state government schemes, effectively reducing the initial capital burden for the new entrepreneurs. ## Application Process Overview Prospective borrowers can apply through the government's JanSamarth portal. The process involves registering as a borrower, providing details about the proposed business, and selecting a lending bank. Applicants must specify whether they require handholding assistance and submit project reports detailing estimated investments, machinery requirements, expected revenue, and projected expenses for the venture. ## Required Documentation Checklist Applicants must prepare several documents, including address proof, SC/ST certificates, and business registration papers like Udyam or GST certificates. Financial documentation such as bank statements, income-tax returns, and asset-liability statements are typically required. Additionally, a detailed project report and proof of the applicant's own investment contribution are essential for the bank's evaluation. ## Program Impact and Reach Launched in April 2016, the initiative has already facilitated loans to more than 2.75 lakh women and SC/ST entrepreneurs. By extending the program, the government seeks to maintain this momentum in fostering inclusive economic growth. The scheme remains a critical tool for democratizing access to capital for historically underserved business segments. ## Sources covering this story - https://www.livemint.com/money/whats-stand-up-india-financing-scheme-benefits-how-to-apply-online-documents-required-after-cabinet-extension-nod-11794399446147.html — --- _Summary written by Brifing from the original reporting. Copyright in the original article belongs to its publisher; read the full piece at the link above._