Unlocking Growth: Government and Private Funding Opportunities for Women-Led Startups in 2025
Government funding programs that support sustainability, innovation, and women entrepreneurship. Below are the best funding options you should explore:
1. Startup India Seed Fund Scheme (SISFS)
This scheme helps early-stage startups secure funds for proof of concept, prototype development, and market entry.
Eligibility:
✔ DPIIT-recognized startup
✔ Tech-based innovation with a scalable product
✔ Incorporated within two years of applying
✔ At least 51% Indian ownership
✔ Applicable across all sectors
Benefits:
✔ Grant up to ₹20 lakh for product trials and commercialization
✔ Funds disbursed through startup incubators
Action Plan:
➡ Register your startup with DPIIT at Startup India
➡ Apply for the seed fund via the official SISFS website
2. SAMRIDH – Startup Accelerator Scheme for Product Innovation
A government initiative for scaling product-based startups with funding and investor connections.
Eligibility:
✔ Startups with a strong product concept and business plan
✔ Backed by experienced startup accelerators
Benefits:
✔ Funding up to ₹40 lakh per startup
✔ Access to mentorship, investors, and international expansion
Action Plan:
➡ Apply for SAMRIDH funding via the official portal
3. Credit Guarantee Trust Fund for Micro & Small Enterprises (CGTMSE)
For startups needing collateral-free loans.
Eligibility:
✔ MSME-registered startups
✔ Women-led startups and OBC category businesses get priority
Benefits:
✔ Collateral-free loans up to ₹1 crore
✔ Government-backed guarantee for loan approvals
Action Plan:
➡ Apply for an MSME registration
➡ Approach participating banks/NBFCs for a CGTMSE-backed loan
4. Pradhan Mantri Mudra Yojana (PMMY)
Provides low-interest loans for small businesses.
Eligibility:
✔ Non-farm micro and small enterprises
✔ Manufacturing, trading, and service-based businesses
Benefits:
✔ Loans up to ₹10 lakh
✔ Categorized into Shishu (₹50,000), Kishor (₹50,000-₹5 lakh), Tarun (₹5 lakh-₹10 lakh)
✔ Flexible repayment of 5-7 years
Action Plan:
➡ Apply at any public/private bank or microfinance institution
5. Idea2PoC/ELEVATE (Karnataka-based startups)
For startups in Karnataka working on innovative products.
Eligibility:
✔ Registered in Karnataka
✔ Working on scalable or innovative solutions
Benefits:
✔ Grant up to ₹50 lakh for prototype development
✔ Incubation support and mentorship
Action Plan:
➡ Apply via ELEVATE’s official website
Additional Growth Opportunities:
✔ Register for Startup Mahakumbh 2025 – India’s largest startup event from April 3-5, 2025 (Register here https://startupmahakumbh.org )
✔ Use the Startup India Investor Connect Platform to find investors for sustainable businesses