👩💼 Government Schemes for Women: Loans + Business Training Opportunities
India has several government initiatives to support women in starting or expanding businesses, getting loans without heavy collateral, and receiving training or mentorship for entrepreneurship. These schemes are run by the Central government (and some state governments) to promote women’s economic empowerment.1. 💳 Pradhan Mantri Mudra Yojana (PMMY) – Collateral‑Free business Loans📌 What It OffersUnder PMMY, women can get collateral‑free loans to start or expand small businesses. The loans are offered in three categories based on business needs:
✔ Businesses must be non‑corporate, non‑farming, and run or headed by the woman applicant.
✔ Loan use: Startup, expansion, equipment purchase, working capital, etc.🧾 How to ApplyVisit your bank branch, NBFC, or microfinance institution that offers Mudra loans.Submit a business plan, identity and address proof (Aadhaar, PAN), and bank account details.The bank processes the loan based on business viability.2. 🚀 Stand‑Up india Scheme – Loans for women Entrepreneurs (₹10 L–₹1 Cr)📌 What It OffersThe Stand‑Up india Scheme focuses on helping SC/ST and women entrepreneurs access affordable credit to start a new business (greenfield project).
✔ Loans cover a large portion of project cost, leaving only a small margin to be contributed by the applicant.
✔ Repayment tenure typically up to 7 years with a moratorium period.🧾 How to Apply👉 Apply online at the Stand‑Up Mitra portal or visit a participating bank branch with your business plan, identity proofs, and project details.
👉 Some banks provide assistance with documentation and formalities after you register.3. 🛠️ TREAD Scheme – Training + Financial Support for women Entrepreneurs📌 What It DoesThe Trade‑Related Entrepreneurship Assistance and Development (TREAD) scheme is aimed at economically weaker women who need both credit support and training for business development.
✔ Interests include retail, crafts, services, home‑based enterprises, and small manufacturing.🧾 How to Apply👉 Identify an MSME development institute, NGO, or bank partnering in the TREAD scheme.
👉 Attend training sessions and counseling provided under the program.
👉 Trainers or NGOs help with credit linkage and loan processing once you complete training.📈 Bonus Schemes Worth KnowingIn addition to the above, these schemes also benefit women entrepreneurs or provide training support:
✔ Ensure your KYC documents (Aadhaar, PAN, bank details) are updated and linked.
✔ Visit local banks or MSME offices for personalized guidance.
✔ If you’re part of an SHG, many schemes provide easier access and preferential support. Disclaimer:The views and opinions expressed in this article are those of the author and do not necessarily reflect the official policy or position of any agency, organization, employer, or company. All information provided is for general informational purposes only. While every effort has been made to ensure accuracy, we make no representations or warranties of any kind, express or implied, about the completeness, reliability, or suitability of the information contained herein. Readers are advised to verify facts and seek professional advice where necessary. Any reliance placed on such information is strictly at the reader’s own risk.
- Shishu: Up to ₹50,000
- Kishor: ₹50,000 – ₹5,00,000
- Tarun: ₹5,00,000 – ₹10,00,000
✔ Businesses must be non‑corporate, non‑farming, and run or headed by the woman applicant.
✔ Loan use: Startup, expansion, equipment purchase, working capital, etc.🧾 How to ApplyVisit your bank branch, NBFC, or microfinance institution that offers Mudra loans.Submit a business plan, identity and address proof (Aadhaar, PAN), and bank account details.The bank processes the loan based on business viability.2. 🚀 Stand‑Up india Scheme – Loans for women Entrepreneurs (₹10 L–₹1 Cr)📌 What It OffersThe Stand‑Up india Scheme focuses on helping SC/ST and women entrepreneurs access affordable credit to start a new business (greenfield project).
- Loan range: ₹10 lakh to ₹1 crore
- Purpose: Setup business in manufacturing, trading, services, or agri‑allied sectors.
✔ Loans cover a large portion of project cost, leaving only a small margin to be contributed by the applicant.
✔ Repayment tenure typically up to 7 years with a moratorium period.🧾 How to Apply👉 Apply online at the Stand‑Up Mitra portal or visit a participating bank branch with your business plan, identity proofs, and project details.
👉 Some banks provide assistance with documentation and formalities after you register.3. 🛠️ TREAD Scheme – Training + Financial Support for women Entrepreneurs📌 What It DoesThe Trade‑Related Entrepreneurship Assistance and Development (TREAD) scheme is aimed at economically weaker women who need both credit support and training for business development.
- Government offers grants up to 30 % of project cost to NGOs.
- NGOs support women with entrepreneurship training, counseling, and market access.
- Women may access loan assistance through linked financial institutions.
✔ Interests include retail, crafts, services, home‑based enterprises, and small manufacturing.🧾 How to Apply👉 Identify an MSME development institute, NGO, or bank partnering in the TREAD scheme.
👉 Attend training sessions and counseling provided under the program.
👉 Trainers or NGOs help with credit linkage and loan processing once you complete training.📈 Bonus Schemes Worth KnowingIn addition to the above, these schemes also benefit women entrepreneurs or provide training support:
- Mahila Samriddhi Yojana — Microfinance loans for women from low‑income communities.
- Mahila Coir Yojana — Subsidies and training for women in the coir industry.
- Rashtriya Mahila Kosh (RMK) — Micro‑loan support through partner organizations and SHGs.
✔ Ensure your KYC documents (Aadhaar, PAN, bank details) are updated and linked.
✔ Visit local banks or MSME offices for personalized guidance.
✔ If you’re part of an SHG, many schemes provide easier access and preferential support. Disclaimer:The views and opinions expressed in this article are those of the author and do not necessarily reflect the official policy or position of any agency, organization, employer, or company. All information provided is for general informational purposes only. While every effort has been made to ensure accuracy, we make no representations or warranties of any kind, express or implied, about the completeness, reliability, or suitability of the information contained herein. Readers are advised to verify facts and seek professional advice where necessary. Any reliance placed on such information is strictly at the reader’s own risk.