Udyogini Scheme 2025 – Interest-Free Loans Up to ₹3 Lakhs for Women Entrepreneurs
Empowering women in business has always been a priority for the Government of Karnataka. The Udyogini Scheme 2025, launched by the Karnataka State Women’s Development Corporation (KSWDC), is a comprehensive initiative aimed at supporting women from rural and underprivileged areas to start their own businesses with financial assistance and minimal hassle.
This scheme is particularly targeted at ambitious women entrepreneurs looking to grow small businesses while fostering self-reliance and economic independence. If you are a woman looking to explore entrepreneurial opportunities, this guide explains everything you need to know about the Udyogini Scheme, eligibility criteria, types of loans, and the application process.
What is the Udyogini Scheme?
The Udyogini Scheme is a government-backed program that provides subsidy-based loans to women entrepreneurs in Karnataka. Its core objective is to:
- Encourage women from rural and backward regions to become entrepreneurs.
- Provide financial support for small-scale business ventures.
- Foster skill development through training programs.
- Promote self-employment opportunities among underprivileged women.
Under this scheme, eligible women can access loans of up to ₹3 lakhs, often with interest-free benefits for special categories, making it an ideal opportunity to kickstart a business without the burden of heavy interest.
Key Features of the Udyogini Scheme
| Feature | Details |
|---|---|
| Loan Amount | Up to ₹3,00,000 |
| Target Beneficiaries | Women from rural, backward, and underprivileged communities |
| Interest Rate | Interest-free for widows, disabled, and Dalit women; 10–12% for other categories |
| Skill Development | Training programs included to help women manage businesses |
| Subsidy on Loan | Up to 30% subsidy on loans to make repayment easier |
| Business Scope | Over 88 types of small-scale businesses eligible |
Who Can Apply?
The Udyogini Scheme is designed to reach women who face financial barriers in starting their businesses. The eligibility criteria include:
- Income Limit: Family income should not exceed ₹1,50,000 per annum for general and special categories.
- Age Limit: Applicants should be between 18 and 55 years.
- Financial Capacity: Applicants should have a good credit score and the ability to repay the loan.
Special provisions apply for widows, disabled women, and Dalit women, who can avail interest-free loans, making this scheme highly inclusive and empowering.
Businesses Supported Under the Scheme
The Udyogini Scheme supports a wide range of small-scale businesses. Below are some examples of eligible business types:
- Nurseries and plant businesses
- Spice and masala preparation
- Bed sheets, blankets, and home textile production
- Grocery stores and small retail outlets
- Coffee, tea, and gift shops
- Beauty parlors and salons
- Photo studios and stationery shops
- Dairy and poultry farming
- Tailoring and sewing businesses
- Bakery and confectionery shops
- Ice cream parlors and food stalls
- Handicrafts, soaps, and incense production
- Canteens, dhabas, and catering businesses
- Travel agencies and transport services
- Computer learning centers
- Library and tutorial services
With such a diverse range of business options, women have the flexibility to choose a venture that aligns with their skills and local demand.
Interest Rates Under the Udyogini Scheme
| Category | Interest Rate |
|---|---|
| Disabled, Widow, Dalit Women | 0% (Interest-Free) |
| General Category Women | 10–12% |
This means eligible women from special categories can start their businesses without worrying about interest, while others can benefit from subsidized loans.
Documents Required for Application
Applicants must submit the following documents to avail the Udyogini Loan:
- Duly filled application form
- 2 passport-size photographs
- Aadhar Card
- Birth Certificate
- BPL Ration Card (if applicable)
- Income certificate
- Caste certificate
- Bank passbook
Having all these documents ready ensures a smooth and hassle-free application process.
How to Apply for the Udyogini Scheme
The application process is simple and can be completed through banks associated with KSWDC:
- Visit Bank Website: Identify the bank where you wish to apply for the loan.
- Download Application Form: Get the official Udyogini Loan application form from the bank’s website.
- Fill Out the Form: Complete all sections carefully with accurate information.
- Attach Documents: Include all required supporting documents.
- Submit Application: Submit the completed application form along with documents to the bank.
- Follow Up: After submission, visit the bank regularly to check the status of your loan approval.
You can also contact financial institutions like Bajaj Finance for applying under this scheme.
Benefits of the Udyogini Scheme
- Empowers Women: Encourages women to become self-reliant and financially independent.
- Low-Cost Funding: Provides affordable and interest-free loans for eligible women.
- Training Support: Offers skill development and training to help women manage businesses effectively.
- Subsidy on Loan: Reduces financial burden with up to 30% subsidy on loans.
- Wide Range of Business Options: Supports over 88 types of small-scale businesses, giving flexibility to women entrepreneurs.
Why Udyogini Scheme is a Game-Changer
The Udyogini Scheme is more than just a loan program; it is a social initiative to empower women entrepreneurs. By providing financial aid, training, and guidance, it bridges the gap between ambition and opportunity for women in rural and backward areas. Many women who have availed of this scheme have successfully started businesses, contributed to local economies, and created employment opportunities for others in their communities.
This scheme reflects the government’s commitment to promoting women entrepreneurship, financial inclusion, and social empowerment.
Application Link
Conclusion
If you are a woman aspiring to start your own small business, the Udyogini Scheme 2025 is an excellent opportunity. With interest-free loans for special categories, flexible business options, and skill development support, this scheme makes it easier than ever for women to pursue entrepreneurship.
Take the first step today by contacting your nearest bank or authorized financial institution, preparing your documents, and applying for the Udyogini Loan. Share this information with friends, family, and women in your community to help more women access this empowering opportunity.
