About this programme
CGSS provides credit guarantee cover, up to a specified limit, against loans and debt instruments extended by Member Institutions (Scheduled Commercial Banks, NBFCs, and SEBI-registered Alternative Investment Funds) to DPIIT-recognised startups. It does not fund startups directly; instead NCGTC as Trustee guarantees the lending institutions, covering venture debt, working capital, subordinated/mezzanine debt, debentures and optionally convertible debt. It is run by National Credit Guarantee Trustee Company (NCGTC), Department for Promotion of Industry and Internal Trade (DPIIT).
A credit guarantee helps you borrow by covering part of the lender’s risk, so eligible businesses can access loans they might not get otherwise. The amount and form of support that actually apply to you depend on the programme’s rules and how your application is assessed — they are not fixed for every applicant.
Like most government programmes, it has its own eligibility conditions, documentation and application window, and these terms are revised from time to time. Because of that, it is worth confirming the current eligibility, amount and deadline on the official programme page before you invest time in applying.
Who can apply
DPIIT-recognised startup, not in default/NPA with any lending or investing institution, and certified eligible by the Member Institution for guarantee cover.
Documents you’ll typically need
- Business registration / incorporation certificate
- PAN (and GST registration, where applicable)
- Identity and address proof for the applicant / directors
- A short description of your business or project
- Recent financials or a simple project report
The exact checklist depends on the programme and your specifics.
Frequently asked
What kind of support is this?
A credit guarantee helps you borrow by covering part of the lender’s risk, so eligible businesses can access loans they might not get otherwise.
Who runs this programme?
Credit Guarantee Scheme for Startups (CGSS) is offered by National Credit Guarantee Trustee Company (NCGTC), Department for Promotion of Industry and Internal Trade (DPIIT). Eligibility and approval rest with them; the criteria and amounts are set by the programme.
Is there a deadline to apply?
Programmes like this can be rolling or time-bound. Confirm the current window on the official programme page before you apply.
How do I know if I’m eligible?
Read “Who can apply” above for the programme’s own criteria. If you’d like a quick read on your specific case, our free 2-minute eligibility check maps your stage, sector and revenue to what you can realistically claim.
Reviewed July 2026. Government programmes change — confirm current eligibility, amounts and deadlines on the official programme page before you apply. CapEasy is a private consultancy and is not affiliated with any government authority.