About this programme
SAATH (SIDBI Assistance and Aid for Thematic support to MSMEs promoted by SC/STs) is a SIDBI scheme that provides term loan assistance on relatively softer terms to MSMEs (manufacturing and service sectors) promoted by Scheduled Caste/Scheduled Tribe entrepreneurs. It funds establishment of new/greenfield units as well as expansion, modernisation, and other capital expenditure of existing units, and is coupled with an incentive structure for good repayment track record. Loan amount ranges from Rs 25 lakh to Rs 300 lakh with tenure of up to 7 years including a moratorium of up to 2 years. Eligible SC/ST entrepreneurs unable to offer collateral get credit guarantee coverage under CGTMSE, with SIDBI bearing 50% of the guarantee processing fee.
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.
It is aimed at businesses in msmes in manufacturing and service sectors promoted by sc/st entrepreneurs. 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
MSMEs (manufacturing or service sector) with at least 51% ownership/stake held by SC/ST entrepreneurs, not in default to any bank/financial institution, applying for new greenfield units or expansion/modernisation of existing units.
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?
NSFDC / SIDBI SAATH — SC Entrepreneur Funding is offered by SIDBI. 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.