How to Get MSME Loan for New Business?

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After having an idea, the first thing a new business requires is capital. And for many entrepreneurs, an MSME loan is the key to growth.
These loans offer accessible funding with favorable terms, so small businesses can cover expenses like equipment, inventory, or operational costs with ease. But securing these loans involves understanding the eligibility criteria, documentation, and lender expectations.
This blog will tell you all about how to get an MSME loan for a new business. Whether you’re a first-time borrower or exploring better financing options, you’ll be able to secure working capital loans securely and effectively. Let’s begin.
What is an MSME Loan?
An MSME (Micro, Small, and Medium Enterprise) loan is a type of financing designed to support small businesses. So they can cover expenses like working capital, machinery, inventory, or expansion.
These loans come with flexible repayment terms, competitive interest rates, and government-backed schemes to encourage entrepreneurship.
Eligible businesses can get MSME loans from banks, NBFCs (Non-Banking Financial Companies), and government institutions. The loan amount and terms will be based on factors like creditworthiness, business viability, and documentation. Startups and existing businesses can scale up their operations with MSME loans.
Types of MSME Loans Available
MSME loans come in different forms, each catering to specific business needs. Here are the most common types:
Term Loans
A term loan provides a lump sum amount repaid over a fixed period with interest and a structured payment schedule. It’s ideal for long-term investments like machinery, equipment, or business expansion. Banks and NBFCs assess credit history, business stability, and future revenue potential before approval.
Working Capital Loans
Designed to cover day-to-day operational expenses, working capital loans ensure smooth cash flow. These expenses can be something like payroll, inventory, and rent. Unlike term loans, these are short-term and help businesses manage liquidity gaps without collateral in some cases.
Business Loan for Startups
Tailored for new ventures, these loans support early-stage businesses with limited financial history. Lenders may evaluate the founder’s credit score, business plan viability, and industry potential instead of traditional collateral. Government schemes like MUDRA also offer startup-friendly options.
Loan Against Property (LAP)
Businesses with owned property (commercial or residential) can leverage it as collateral for higher loan amounts at lower interest rates. Getting a Loan Against Property is suitable for large funding needs, but defaulting risks asset seizure.
Government-Backed Schemes
Initiatives like CGTMSE (Credit Guarantee Fund Trust for Micro & Small Enterprises) and PSB Loans in 59 Minutes provide easier loan access with reduced collateral requirements. These schemes aim to boost MSME growth through affordable credit and faster approvals.
The MSME loan you opt for your business depends on business needs, repayment capacity, and financial goals. With our financing options, you can get loans against property, working capital loans, business loans, and more.
Eligibility for MSME Loan for New Businesses
Securing an MSME loan for your startup depends on meeting basic eligibility criteria set by lenders. While requirements vary across banks and financial institutions, here are the key factors they consider:
Business Age & Type
Most lenders require the business to be at least 6 months to 1 year old (some schemes support newer startups). Eligible entities include sole proprietorships, partnerships, LLPs, and private limited companies.
Credit Score & Financial Health
A personal/business credit score of 650+ improves approval chances. Lenders may check cash flow statements, bank transactions, and projected revenue.
Documentation
Here are the documents required by new businesses when applying for MSME loans
- KYC documents of the applicant (Aadhaar, PAN, address proof)
- Business plan drafted by the applicant
- Business proof (GST registration, MSME certificate, trade license)
- Financial statements (bank statements, ITR if applicable)
Collateral (If Required)
Unsecured loans (no collateral) are available but may have higher interest rates. Secured loans (against property/equipment) offer better terms.
Eligibility Factor | Micro Enterprise | Small Enterprise | Medium Enterprise |
---|---|---|---|
Investment in Plant & Machinery/Equipment | Up to ₹1Cr. (Manufacturing)Up to ₹25 Lakhs (Services) | ₹1Cr. – ₹10Cr. (Manufacturing)₹25L – ₹5Cr. (Services) | ₹10Cr. – ₹50Cr. (Manufacturing)₹5Cr. – ₹20Cr. (Services) |
Annual Turnover | Up to ₹5Cr. | ₹5Cr. – ₹50Cr. | ₹50Cr. – ₹250Cr. |
Loan Amount Range | ₹50k – ₹10L | ₹10L – ₹50L | ₹50L – ₹5Cr. |
Collateral Requirement | Often unsecured (schemes like MUDRA) | Partial collateral may apply | Usually secured (property/equipment) |
Credit Score Expectation | 600+ (relaxed for govt. schemes) | 650+ | 700+ |
Business Age Requirement | 6 months – 1 year (varies) | 1–2 years | 2+ years |
But government schemes like MUDRA Loans or CGTMSE provide collateral-free options for eligible businesses.
How to Get an MSME Loan for a New Business?
Securing an MSME loan for your new business requires careful planning and execution. Follow these steps to improve your chances of approval:
Step 1: Assess Your Funding Needs
Calculate how much capital you need and for what purpose (working capital, equipment, expansion, etc.). Avoid borrowing excessively—align the loan amount with realistic repayment capacity.
Step 2: Check Eligibility & Credit Score
Verify lender-specific criteria (business age, turnover, documentation). Then ensure your personal/business credit score is 650+ (fix errors if any).
Step 3: Choose the Right Loan Type
Pick a loan that fits your needs:
- Term loan (for long-term investments)
- Working capital loan (for daily operations)
- Government-backed scheme (e.g., MUDRA, CGTMSE for easier approval)
Step 4: Gather Required Documents
See if you have these documents and gather them for the application.
- Business Proof: GST, MSME registration, trade license, MOA/AOA (if applicable).
- Financial Records: Bank statements, ITR (if any), projected revenue plans.
- KYC: PAN, Aadhaar, address proof of owner/business.
Step 5: Compare Lenders & Apply
Compare interest rates, processing fees, and repayment terms across banks/NBFCs. Submit applications online or offline with accurate details.
Step 6: Await Verification & Approval
Lenders may inspect your business, check cash flow, and evaluate collateral (if any). Approval timelines vary (3–7 days for digital lenders; 2+ weeks for traditional banks).
Step 7: Disbursement & Repayment
Once approved, funds are transferred to your account. Set up EMIs and maintain timely repayments to build creditworthiness.
This structured approach minimizes rejection risks and helps you secure funding efficiently.
FAQs on MSME Loans for Businesses
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Can a new business get an MSME loan without collateral?
Yes! Many lenders offer unsecured MSME loans under schemes like MUDRA (Shishu/Kishore/Tarun) or CGTMSE. Startups with strong credit scores or cash flow projections may qualify.
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What is the minimum credit score required?
Most lenders prefer a personal/business credit score of 650+. Some NBFCs may accept lower scores but at higher interest rates.
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Can I get a loan if my business is less than 6 months old?
Some lenders (like fintech startups) offer loans to 0–6 month-old businesses, but amounts may be smaller. Traditional banks usually require 6+ months of operations.
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Can I prepay the loan? Are there penalties?
Most lenders allow prepayment after 6–12 months, but some charge a 1–3% penalty. Check terms before signing.
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Are there tax benefits on MSME loans?
Yes! Interest paid is tax-deductible under Section 80E (for education loans) or Section 24 (for property-linked loans).
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Can I get an MSME loan without GST registration?
Some lenders may approve loans without GST if you have an MSME certificate, but GST registration improves eligibility and loan terms.
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Is a business plan mandatory for loan approval?
For startups, a well-structured business plan strengthens your application by showing revenue potential and repayment capacity.
Final Summary
Securing an MSME loan for your new business is a strategic step toward growth, but it requires careful planning. What you need to do is understand the type of loan, meet the eligibility criteria, and submit a well-prepped application. That will improve your chances of approval.
Remember, the right loan depends on your business needs—whether it’s working capital, equipment financing, or expansion funds. Compare lenders, explore government schemes, and maintain a strong credit profile to access the best terms.Stay informed, plan wisely, and take confident steps toward your entrepreneurial goals. For that, you can get our financing services today!