Key Takeaways
- The scheme was launched on October 18, 2016 in Ludhiana and is implemented by the Ministry of MSME through the National Small Industries Corporation (NSIC).
- It exists mainly to help SC and ST-owned enterprises access the 4 percent central government procurement mandate under the Public Procurement Policy for MSEs, Order 2012.
- Eligible enterprises must have at least 51 percent SC or ST ownership, whether proprietary, partnership or private limited, per the Ministry's February 2014 clarification.
- Key benefits include up to 90 percent (capped at ₹1,00,000) reimbursement for short-term training at top NIRF-ranked institutes and a 100 percent subsidy on NSIC's Single Point Registration Scheme fee.
- There is no income limit for applicants, and both aspiring and existing entrepreneurs aged 18 or above can apply, with no gender-based restriction.
Why the National SC-ST Hub Scheme exists
The Central Government Public Procurement Policy for Micro and Small Enterprises, Order 2012, mandates that central departments, ministries and central public sector enterprises procure at least 4 percent of their total annual purchases from SC-ST-owned MSEs. Many capable SC and ST entrepreneurs, however, lacked access to formal registration systems, financing and market linkages needed to actually compete for that procurement share.
The National SC-ST Hub was set up to close that gap, providing professional support so SC-ST entrepreneurs can adopt standard business practices, register formally, and leverage related initiatives like Stand-Up India alongside broader goals such as Make in India and Startup India.
Who qualifies as an eligible SC-ST enterprise?
| Business structure | SC-ST ownership requirement |
|---|---|
| Proprietary micro or small enterprise | Proprietor must belong to SC or ST community |
| Partnership micro or small enterprise | SC or ST partners must hold at least 51% of shares |
| Private limited company | At least 51% of shares held by SC or ST promoters |
Key benefits under the scheme
- Up to 90 percent reimbursement, capped at ₹100,000, for attending up to two short-term training programs at top 50 NIRF-ranked institutes
- 100 percent subsidy on NSIC's Single Point Registration Scheme (SPRS) fee, making it easier to register for government tenders
- Support for participation in domestic and international trade fairs and exhibitions under the Special Marketing Assistance Scheme
- Access to mentorship, market linkages and networking support to help entrepreneurs meet standard business and procurement practices
- No income ceiling, so entrepreneurs from a wide range of economic backgrounds can apply
Documents typically required
- Self-certified copy of Udyam Registration for the micro or small enterprise
- Caste certificate for all SC or ST promoters or partners, issued by a competent authority
- Partnership deed or certificate of incorporation, as applicable to the business structure
- Shareholding documentation demonstrating at least 51 percent SC or ST ownership where the business is a partnership or private limited company
Frequently Asked Questions
Who runs the National SC-ST Hub Scheme?
The scheme is implemented by the Ministry of Micro, Small and Medium Enterprises (MSME), Government of India, through the National Small Industries Corporation (NSIC), a public-sector undertaking under the Ministry's administrative control.
Who qualifies as an SC-ST enterprise under this scheme?
For a proprietary micro or small enterprise, the proprietor must belong to the SC or ST community. For a partnership, SC or ST partners must hold at least 51 percent of the shares. For a private limited company, at least 51 percent of shares must be held by SC or ST promoters, per the Ministry of MSME's clarification dated February 20, 2014.
What benefits does an eligible business receive?
Benefits include up to 90 percent reimbursement, capped at ₹1,00,000, for attending short-term training programs at top NIRF-ranked institutes, 100 percent subsidy on NSIC's Single Point Registration Scheme (SPRS) fee for easier access to government tenders, and support for participation in domestic and international trade exhibitions under the Special Marketing Assistance Scheme.
What documents are needed to apply?
Applicants typically need a self-certified copy of Udyam Registration, a caste certificate for all SC or ST promoters or partners, business incorporation or partnership documents, and details supporting the SC or ST ownership share required under the scheme.
Why does the scheme focus on public procurement?
The Public Procurement Policy for Micro and Small Enterprises mandates that central government departments and CPSEs procure at least 4 percent of their total purchases from SC-ST-owned enterprises. The National SC-ST Hub was set up specifically to help eligible entrepreneurs access and fulfill this procurement opportunity.
Is there an income limit to apply for the scheme?
No. The scheme does not impose an income ceiling, making it accessible to SC and ST entrepreneurs across different economic backgrounds, provided their enterprise otherwise meets the MSME and ownership criteria.
Ready to move forward?
Setting up your Udyam Registration, NSIC tender registration, or documentation to claim National SC-ST Hub benefits for your business? Book a free consultation with Growthora, and we will help you get registered and compliant.
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