The National SC-ST Hub Scheme 2025 is started to support entrepreneurs from Scheduled Caste (SC) and Scheduled Tribe (ST) communities in starting and growing their own micro, small, and medium businesses (MSMEs). This scheme aims to help SC/ST business owners by improving their access to markets, government contracts, financial help, and skill building. It also works alongside other government schemes like Stand-Up India to promote inclusive entrepreneurship.
Overview of the National SC-ST Hub Scheme
The National SC-ST Hub Scheme supports SC/ST entrepreneurs by giving them better chances to take part in government buying and improve their businesses. The scheme is handled by the National Small Industries Corporation (NSIC), a government organization under the Ministry of Micro, Small and Medium Enterprises (MSME). It started on October 18, 2016, in Ludhiana and has since helped many SC/ST entrepreneurs across India.
Main Details of the National SC-ST Hub Scheme
| Scheme Name | National SC-ST Hub Scheme |
| Started by | Ministry of Micro, Small and Medium Enterprises (MSME), Government of India |
| Purpose | Help SC/ST entrepreneurs start and grow MSMEs |
| Beneficiaries | Entrepreneurs from Scheduled Castes and Scheduled Tribes |
| Official Website | https://www.scsthub.in/ |
Sub-Schemes under the National SC-ST Hub Programme
The National SC-ST Hub includes several smaller programmes made to provide financial and marketing support, encourage technology upgrades, and connect SC/ST entrepreneurs with government buyers.
1. Special Credit Linked Capital Subsidy Scheme (SCLCSS)
This scheme helps SC/ST business owners upgrade their technology and machinery by offering a 25% upfront capital subsidy on loans up to Rs. 1 crore. There are no limits on the sector or type of machinery under this subsidy.
2. Single Point Registration Scheme (SPRS)
With SPRS, SC/ST-owned micro and small enterprises can easily register with NSIC to join government procurement. Registration brings benefits like free tender documents, no earnest money deposit (EMD), and a reserved procurement target of 4% from SC/ST businesses under the Public Procurement Policy.
Why Register under SPRS?
- Free access to tender documents.
- No need to pay earnest money deposit for tenders.
- Opportunity to supply up to 25% of tender quantity by matching the lowest price.
- At least 4% of government procurement is reserved for SC/ST owned businesses.
- Access to special reserved items only for small scale industries.
Who is Eligible?
- Micro and Small Enterprises with Udyog Aadhaar Memorandum (UAM) or EM Part-II can register.
- New MSE units less than one year old can get provisional registration with a financial limit of Rs. 5 lakh.
How to Apply?
You can apply online at www.nsicspronline.com or offline at the nearest NSIC zonal/branch office with the required documents and fees. SC/ST owned enterprises pay a small fee of Rs. 100 plus GST for registration and renewals.
3. Special Marketing Assistance Scheme (SMAS)
This scheme offers marketing support to SC/ST businesses by helping them participate in domestic and international trade fairs, exhibitions, workshops, and vendor development programmes. It increases their product visibility and competitiveness in bigger markets.
Main Highlights of SMAS
- SC/ST units must be registered in the MSME databank to get benefits.
- The largest booth size allowed is 3m x 3m at events.
- Entrepreneurs can claim support for up to 2 international and 4 domestic events each year.
- At least 5 SC/ST participants are needed for international events.
- Applications must be submitted at least one month before domestic events, and two months before international events through NSIC field offices.
- Funding and monitoring are provided by the Ministry of MSME.
FAQs about the National SC-ST Hub Scheme
Do SC/ST owned businesses get special preference in government procurement?
Yes. The government reserves 4% of its annual procurement specifically for SC/ST owned MSEs, helping them get more government contracts.
Who manages the National SC-ST Hub Scheme?
The scheme is run by the National Small Industries Corporation (NSIC), which works under the Ministry of MSME.
If you are an SC/ST entrepreneur looking to grow your business and tap into government opportunities, the National SC-ST Hub Scheme 2025 offers you support through finance, marketing, and easier registration. Visit the official website to get started and take advantage of the government’s support.