Credit Guarantee Scheme for Startups
DPIIT, operated by National Credit Guarantee Trustee Company (NCGTC)
Gives banks, NBFCs and venture debt funds a government guarantee on money they lend to DPIIT-recognised startups, so they can lend with less collateral. Cover reaches 85% of the default on loans up to ₹10 crore and 75% above that. The startup still has to win and repay the loan.
What you can get
Guarantee cover up to ₹20 crore per borrower. This protects the lender and is not cash to you.
Do you repay it?
Yes, or it takes equity
Type
Credit guarantee
Where
All of India
Current status
No end date is published. The NCGTC page lists the May 2025 gazette notification and 2025-26 FAQ, and the Startup India page was last updated 30 October 2026. Jan Samarth has a live startup loan route.
Who can apply
- Recognised by DPIIT
- Not in default to any lender or investor
- Not classified as a Non-Performing Asset under RBI rules
- Eligibility certified by the member lender
How to apply
- 1Get DPIIT recognition first
- 2Apply online for the startup loan on the Jan Samarth portal, or visit a branch of a member lender
- 3The lender appraises you under its normal rules and takes the guarantee from NCGTC
The catch
A guarantee is not a loan approval. The lender still judges your cash flows, and Jan Samarth asks for at least 25% margin plus audited balance sheets and a project report from existing units.
We read this on the official page on 4 November 2026. Rules and dates change, so confirm there before you apply. Founders Wing is not connected to this scheme, does not help with applications and never charges for access to it.