Here’s on Women in Business: 5 Government Schemes to Power Your Entrepreneurial Aspirations
Women Entrepreneurs on the Rise
India is witnessing a huge wave of women entrepreneurs from small business ventures to big companies. Yet, the majority of the start-up entrepreneurs do not have access to the resources in terms of finance, availability of the resources, and guidance. In a bid to fill the gap, the Government of India started many schemes with a view to empowering women and providing them with the thrust they require to realize their entrepreneurial dream.
Stand-Up India Scheme
Specially introduced for women entrepreneurship and weaker sections, the scheme offers loans of ₹10 lakh to ₹1 crore. Women entrepreneurs can utilize this fund to start greenfield units in trade, manufacturing, or services.
Mahila Udyam Nidhi Scheme
Managed by SIDBI (Small Industries Development Bank of India), this scheme provides a loan up to ₹10 lakh to women to start new ventures in small industries. It also facilitates upgradation and modernization, making it possible to promote sustainable development.
Mudra Yojana for Women
Women entrepreneurs availing Pradhan Mantri Mudra Yojana are offered collateral-free loans segmented into Shishu (up to ₹50,000), Kishor (₹50,000–₹5 lakh), and Tarun (₹5–₹10 lakh). It is designed specifically to support small-sized business and serves best for women employed in salons, tailoring houses, and small-sized businesses.
Annapurna Scheme
For women who plan to set up food business ventures like catering units, tiffin services, or small restaurants, the Annapurna Scheme finances them with up to ₹50,000. The scheme extends financial aid for entrepreneurs’ working capital requirements like the purchase of utensils, machinery, and raw material.
TREAD (Trade Related Entrepreneurship Assistance and Development) Scheme
This scheme is for women only for encouraging self-employment. It extends finance in the form of NGOs by offering a maximum of 30% of the cost of the project, and banks offer the balance. Training and counseling are also offered under this scheme, which increases the entrepreneurial skills of women.
Conclusion: Government schemes are not just about money—breaking barriers, opening doors, and making women entrepreneurship a success in every sector. Determination, resources, and proper support can make women entrepreneurs achieve their dreams and play an important role in India’s developing economy.
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