Delhi CM Rekha Gupta Launches Women Startup Loan Scheme With Collateral-Free Loans Up To Rs 10 Crore

Delhi has cleared a new Delhi Women Startup Loan Scheme that could reshape the capital’s startup scene. Chief Minister Rekha Gupta announced collateral-free loans of up to Rs 10 crore for women-led startups and self-help groups. The Delhi government will give the guarantee, aiming to help build larger brands and business models.

Economists say many women in India want to start enterprises but struggle with finance. Banks often ask for security, which most new founders do not have. This scheme targets that funding gap and could help women-led firms compete with established players across Delhi and beyond.

Delhi Women Startup Loan Scheme: key loan features and government guarantee

Under the Delhi Women Startup Loan Scheme, applicants will not need to mortgage property or bring a private guarantor. Rekha Gupta stated that the Delhi government itself will act as guarantor for eligible loans. Experts argue that government-backed credit can ease banking pressure and support early-stage women entrepreneurs.

Many women already run small ventures from homes and local markets but find growth difficult. The new loan window aims to support both startups and self-help groups seeking to scale operations. By removing collateral demands, the government expects more women to seek formal finance and grow into medium or large businesses.

Delhi Women Startup Loan Scheme: announcement at SHG fair and participation details

Rekha Gupta shared details of the Delhi Women Startup Loan Scheme while inaugurating a two-day “Mega Self Help Group Fair-2026” in Rohini. According to the Chief Minister, the administration is working “at a large scale” to make women financially independent. Gupta said many capable women are blocked by strict bank guarantee rules.

The Rohini fair highlighted what women’s enterprises already produce. Around 24 self-help groups joined the event, displaying khadi, handicrafts, crochet work, household goods, food products and other handmade items. Officials say such fairs give visibility to micro businesses, not just sales, and guide policy on strengthening the self-help group network.

Delhi Women Startup Loan Scheme: link with 'Vocal for Local’ and wider campaigns

During the announcement, Rekha Gupta referred to Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s campaigns “Vocal for Local”, “Atmanirbhar Bharat” and “One District, One Product”. Gupta said the Delhi government is focusing on taking local products to wider markets. The plan includes placing women-made goods in malls and large shopping complexes.

This move could shift many women entrepreneurs from occasional fair stalls to regular access to bigger customers. Women who earlier sold mainly in neighbourhood markets may reach city-wide buyers. Officials believe linking credit support with improved market access will help women sustain and then expand their businesses.

Policy watchers note that the number of women entrepreneurs in India is rising, yet funding access remains limited. Large loans usually require strong collateral, which new businesses rarely offer. If the Delhi Women Startup Loan Scheme is implemented effectively, the city could see a quick increase in women-led enterprises and stronger participation in the startup ecosystem.