Top 7 Business Loan Schemes for Women Entrepreneurs in India

• There are several top government and private loan schemes tailored for women entrepreneurs .
• Loan benefits include low interest rates, relaxed collateral terms, and flexible repayment
• Eligibility criteria and loan amounts vary across schemes.
• Schemes cover micro, small, and medium enterprises.
• Direct application links and key features explained.

In recent years, more and more women in India have been starting their businesses, and this trend is only growing. To support this rise, both government and private institutions are offering business loans for women to help fuel their success. These loans are designed to empower women entrepreneurs by increasing financial independence, encouraging self-employment, and making it easier to start, expand, or grow a business. With flexible repayment options, lower interest rates, and minimal paperwork, business loans for women are tailored to meet the needs of female entrepreneurs across various industries. In this blog, you’ll explore some of the best loan options available to support women entrepreneurs .

This section highlights the benefits, loan amount, and eligibility of government and private lending programs created specifically for female entrepreneurs looking for a business loan for women . Mudra Yojana under PMMY The Pradhan Mantri Mudra Yojana (PMMY) provides business loans for women that don't require collateral.  Best option for women who want to launch or grow micro or small businesses.

• Loan Amount: ₹50,000 to ₹20 lakhs
• Types:

Note: Tarun Plus can only be availed by the entrepreneurs who have successfully repaid previous loans under Tarun scheme.

• Interest Rate: As per the lender’s discretion
• Eligibility: Women entrepreneurs in non-corporate small business segments
• Collateral: Not required

Cent Kalyani Scheme by Central Bank of India

This scheme helps women involved in agriculture, retail trade, and MSME sectors by offering quick access to working capital or term loans. It is one of the popular government-backed options for a business loan for women .

• Loan Amount: Up to ₹1 crore.
• Interest Rate: Based on bank guidelines.
• Eligibility: Women in business, self-employed professionals, and service enterprises.
• Collateral: No collateral required.

Mahila Udyam Nidhi Scheme by SIDBI

IDBI’s Mahila Udyam Nidhi Scheme supports women entrepreneurs in setting up or upgrading small businesses through soft loans. It is especially beneficial for those in the MSME sector , offering financial support tailored to their unique needs.

• Loan Amount: Up to ₹10 lakhs.
• Repayment: Up to 10 years.
• Eligibility: Women entrepreneurs in the MSME sector.
• Collateral: May vary by lender.

For a deeper understanding of MSME loan options available to women entrepreneurs, explore this comprehensive guide by Aditya Birla Capital .

Stree Shakti Package by SBI

This scheme offers special concessions to women who own majority stakes in their businesses.

• Loan Amount: Varies by business profile.
• Interest Rate: 0.5% concession for loans above ₹2 lakhs.
• Eligibility: Women with ≥51% ownership and registered under entrepreneurship programs.
• Collateral: As per SBI (State Bank of India) guidelines

Orient Mahila Vikas Yojna Scheme

This program is offered by Oriental Bank of Commerce and is intended for women who hold the majority of the company's shares. It helps women access affordable credit to start or expand their ventures.

• Eligibility: Women with at least 51% ownership in a proprietary firm.
• Loan Amount: Based on the business scale and funding needs.
• Interest Rate: Concession on standard rates.
• Repayment Tenure: Up to 7 years.

Udyogini Scheme

Offered by several banks and NGOs, this scheme provides business loans for women from underprivileged backgrounds to promote entrepreneurship.

• Loan Amount: Up to ₹3 lakhs (can vary by state or bank).
• Interest Rate: Concessional or subsidised/
• Eligibility: Women aged 18–55, with family income below ₹1.5 lakh (may vary), with no income limit for widowed or disabled women.
• Collateral: May be waived off for lower loan amounts

Women Entrepreneurship Platform (WEP)

Launched by NITI Aayog, WEP is not a direct loan provider but connects women entrepreneurs with financial institutions, government schemes, and support networks.

• Services Offered: Access to funding, mentorship, and business support.
• Eligibility: All women entrepreneurs registered on WEP.
• Loan Access: Through partnered financial institutions.
• Application: Online via WEP portal.

Women-led businesses in India are growing fast, and the rise of tailored loan schemes is powering this momentum. The options we've explored are designed to help women entrepreneurs move ahead confidently, with minimal paperwork, lower interest rates, and flexible repayment terms. Whether you're launching a new venture or expanding an existing one, these schemes offer the financial boost you need.Need funding support? Explore customised business loan options with Aditya Birla Capital — built to empower women entrepreneurs at every step of their journey.