Top 6 Government Loan Schemes for Women Entrepreneurs in 2025

In India, women entrepreneurs are driving economic growth and innovation increasingly with each passing year. The government has realized their potential and has introduced several loan schemes to support their business journeys. These provide the much-needed funding for business expansions and meet other operating costs.

This article examines six major government loans for women entrepreneurs in 2025. The list will help you make the right choice based on your financial needs.

Also Read: All You Need to Know About a Business Loan

Annapurna scheme

The Annapurna scheme supports women looking to start or expand food-related businesses such as catering services or small food outlets. Under this scheme, eligible women can receive loans up to INR 50 lakh. The funds can be used for purchasing equipment, raw materials, or working capital.

Key benefits:

• Loan up to INR 50 lakh
• Flexible repayment options
• No collateral is required for small amounts

If you're passionate about the food industry, the Annapurna scheme can provide the financial boost you need.

Stree Shakti Yojana

The Stree Shakti Yojana is aimed at empowering women entrepreneurs in rural and semi-urban areas. It offers lower interest rates for eligible women, particularly those who are part of self-help groups (SHGs).

Key benefits:

• Interest concession of 0.5%
• Simplified documentation process

Stand-up India scheme

The Stand-up India scheme’s aim is to facilitate businesses by women and people from SC/ST communities. The scheme provides loans that enable people belonging to these groups to start and develop their ventures in manufacturing, services, and trade.

Key benefits:

• Loan amounts between INR 10 lakh and INR 1 crore
• Long repayment tenure of up to 7 years
• Minimal collateral requirements

Women can use the Stand-up India scheme to establish their dream businesses and contribute to the economy.

Cent Kalyani Scheme

The Cent Kalyani scheme by the Central Bank of India is another excellent option for women entrepreneurs. It provides financial assistance without requiring collateral.

Key benefits:

• Loans up to INR 1 crore
• No processing fees

Udyogini Scheme

The Udyogini scheme is specifically designed to promote women’s entrepreneurship by offering financial support for small and medium enterprises.

Key benefits:

• Loan amounts up to INR 3 lakh
• Low interest rates for economically weaker sections
• Easy eligibility criteria

Mudra Yojana

The Mudra Yojana is a well-known scheme offering financial support to micro and small enterprises. Women entrepreneurs can access loans under three categories: Shishu (up to INR 50,000), Kishor (up to INR 5 lakh), and Tarun (up to INR 10 lakh).

Key benefits:

• Loans without collateral
• Competitive interest rates
• Flexible repayment options

Mudra Yojana can be used by women to cater to different business requirements, such as buying machines and expanding operations.

Personal Loans for Women Entrepreneurs

Apart from government schemes, several financial institutions offer personal loans for women. These loans are designed to provide quick access to funds for both business and personal needs.

Benefits of personal loans for women:

• Quick approval process
• Flexible repayment terms
• Lower interest rates
• No restriction on usage

If you're urgently in need of funds, a personal loan company can be your go-to solution.

Also Read: Top Business Loans for Women in MSME

The Bottom Line

Government loan schemes and personal loans for women entrepreneurs are vital tools for financial empowerment. Whether you're starting a new venture or expanding an existing one, there are numerous options available to meet your needs. From the Annapurna scheme to the Udyogini scheme, these business loans for women in India provide a reliable foundation for success.

Apply now for a loan to take advantage of these schemes and unlock your business potential!

Moreover, An EMI calculator can help you achieve this clarity by telling you the exact amount you need to pay as your EMIs per month.

FAQs

Q.1. Which loan is best for women entrepreneurs?

A. Some of the top loans for women entrepreneurs include the Pradhan Mantri Mudra Yojana (PMMY), Stree Shakti Yojna, Udyogini Scheme, and Annapurna Yojna.

Q.2. What is the new scheme for women introduced in 2024?

A. The Indian government introduced the Mahila Samman Scheme in 2024 to support female investors. It was introduced in the Union Budget 2024.

Q.3. What is the PM loan scheme for women entrepreneurs?

A. The Prime Minister Loan Scheme for Ladies is a government initiative to provide financial support to female business owners. The scheme offers loans at lower interest rates and flexible repayment options for women.

Q.4. Can I open the Mahila Samman scheme?

A. Yes, you can open a Mahila Samman Savings Certificate Scheme (MSSC) until March 31, 2025. This is basically a 2-year scheme that was launched in April 2023.

Q.5. Which loan has a 50% subsidy?

A. There are several loan schemes in India that offer a 50% subsidy, such as – the Udyogini Scheme, the Pradhan Mantri Gramin Bhandaran Yojana (PMGBY), the Minority Vehicle Loan Scheme, the Soil Conservation Loan Scheme, etc.

Disclaimer:

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