A Complete Guide on Business Loans for MSMEs

28 November, 2023

In recent times, there has been a marked increase in Micro, Small, and Medium Enterprises (MSMEs) and start-ups in India. This boost has only been supported by the MSME Act, 2006 and the Start-up India Initiative. However, if you are the founder of a start-up, then you know how challenging it can be to arrange for funding during the early stages. Plus, the MSME sector in India has limited access to formal credit facilities. Thus, the Government of India has created various avenues that can help MSMEs and start-ups meet their capital requirements.

What are the eligibility criteria for Business Loan?

The eligibility criteria for each scheme and loan are different, however, the general criteria are as follows:

• As an applicant, you should be above 21 years of age, with the maximum age being 65 years.

• You must be a citizen of India.

• The MSME or start-up should have been formed as a sole proprietorship, partnership firm, company or a Limited Liability Partnership (LLP).

• The MSME or start-up must have a good credit score.
  
  

What are the documents required to apply for Business Loan for start-ups?

Applicants have to submit the following documents while applying for the Business Loan for MSMEs and start-ups:

• KYC documents like passport, Aadhaar Card, Driving License, PAN Card, Voter ID, utility bills, etc.

• The business plan as drafted by the applicant.

• Business incorporation certificate.

• Business address proof.

• Any other document as specified by the lender.
  
  

What are the top government Business Loans for start-ups and MSMEs?

The Government of India has launched various schemes and Business Loan for MSMEs. They are as follows:

1. Pradhan Mantri Mudra Yojana (PMMY):
   
   PMMY provides loans of up to ₹10 Lakh to non-farm and non-corporate small and micro-enterprises. Under PMMY, you can obtain loans from institutions like Microfinance Institutions (MFIs), Small Finance Banks, Commercial Banks and Non-Banking Financial Companies (NBFCs).
   
   You can apply for Mudra Loans by approaching these lending institutions. These loans are collateral-free and come with a repayment tenure of 1 year-5 years. The loan amount offered depends on the development stage of your business.
   
   

2. Credit Guarantee Fund Trust for Micro and Small Enterprises (CGTMSE)
   
   CGTMSE is a loan scheme that offers collateral-free Business Loans for MSMEs and start-ups. It offers a credit facility of up to ₹ 200 Lakh to MSMEs and start-ups. CGTMSE also provides a guarantee cover to lenders in case the borrowers default. The guarantee cover offered can be up to 50%, 75%, 80%, or 85% of the loan amount sanctioned by the lender.
   
   The National Bank for Agriculture and Rural Development (NABARD) classified select regional rural banks and scheduled commercial banks are institutions that offer Business Loans for MSMEs and start-ups. The interest rates levied under the scheme are decided as per RBI guidelines.
   
   

3. Credit-Linked Capital Subsidy Scheme (CLCSS):
   
   CLCSS grants a subsidy to new and existing MSMEs or start-ups for the purpose of technological upgrades. Under this scheme, you can get a subsidy of 15% on institutional credit up to ₹1 crore for identified technology, sectors, and sub-sectors. You can approach the 11 nodal agencies or associated banks to avail of the subsidy. The scheme aims to help start-ups create products of superior quality by focusing on areas related to the same.
   
   

4. Bank Loans:
   
   Various banks and financial institutions offer loans to MSMEs and start-ups. All you have to do is meet the eligibility criteria and submit the documents required. Once your application is approved, you can avail of a high-value loan amount. You have to repay the loan over a fixed repayment tenure.
   
   However, the interest rate, tenure, and loan amount on offer differ from one bank to another. You can repay the loan amount with interest due via Equated Monthly Instalments (EMIs). You can choose from a standard business term loan, working capital loan, or any loan specially designed for MSMEs or start-ups.

Now that you know more about Business Loan for MSME, you can choose a financing option that suits your needs best.


To apply for Business Loan, click here.
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​​​​​​​*Terms and conditions apply. The information provided in this article is generic in nature and for informational purposes only. It is not a substitute for specific advice in your own circumstances.