AI SummaryPunyashlok Ahilyadevi Holkar Mahila Startup Yojana accepts online applications for women-led startups in Maharashtra. Under this scheme, selected startups get a one-time financial grant of Rs. 1 lakh to Rs. 25 lakh to grow and expand their business.
Maharashtra State Innovation Society (MSInS) runs the scheme for the Skill, Employment, Entrepreneurship and Innovation Department of the state government. The grant is non-repayable, which means women founders do not have to return the money or give up any share in their company. Women who want to start or grow their own business can register online at msins.in.
Mahila Startup Yojana Online Apply 2026
Finance Minister and Deputy Chief Minister Ajit Pawar announced the scheme on 28 June 2024 during the supplementary budget. Prime Minister Narendra Modi officially launched it on 20 September 2024 at the PM Vishwakarma programme in Wardha. The official government resolution for this scheme is MNASO 2824/Pr.Kr.53/Kaushalya-2 dated 09 July 2024.
This scheme is different from a normal loan because it gives a non-repayable grant in subsidy form to women who are already running a startup and earning revenue. The money helps these businesses move from the early growth stage to the next level. Women who are interested in this scheme can also check the list of major women empowerment schemes for 2026 to find more support programs.
How to Apply for Mahila Startup Yojana
Women can apply for the scheme online free of cost through the official MSInS portal. The application opens in rounds, so applicants need to keep checking the portal for the next window. Here is how to apply:
STEP 1 - Go to the official website at msins.in and click on the Register Now option. Fill in the startup name, women founder name, email, mobile number and registered business name.
STEP 2 - After registration, log in to the portal using the registered mobile number and open the Punyapollo Ahilyadey Holkar Mahila Startup Yojana section.
STEP 3 - Fill the complete application form with the startup profile, women founder details, company registration, DPIIT recognition, annual turnover, business model and products or services.
STEP 4 - Upload the required documents, including the MCA certificate of incorporation, DPIIT recognition certificate, proof of 51% women equity, audited financial statements and a self-declaration that no earlier Maharashtra government grant was taken.
STEP 5 - Submit the completed application online. The portal gives an acknowledgement, and the application is free at every stage.
STEP 6 - An Evaluation Committee set up by the Commissioner, Skill Development, screens the applications. Shortlisted startups get a call for a presentation session, and selected startups receive the grant directly into their bank account.
Eligibility of Mahila Startup Yojana
Women-led startups must meet the following conditions to apply for the scheme:
- Startup must hold a valid DPIIT recognition from the Department for Promotion of Industry and Internal Trade.
- Startup must be registered in Maharashtra, and a woman founder or co-founder must hold at least 51% equity in the company.
- Startup must have been working for at least one year, with annual turnover between Rs. 10 lakh and Rs. 1 crore.
- Startup must not have received any grant from any Maharashtra government scheme earlier.
As per the official resolution, 25% of the total provisions are reserved for women from backward classes and economically weaker sections. Startups that are innovative, high-impact and create jobs get priority during selection.
Benefits of Mahila Startup Yojana
The scheme gives women-led startups a one-time grant that does not need to be repaid. Selected startups receive the money directly in their account and can use it for product development, expanding operations and building market presence. They also get mentorship and guidance through the MSInS ecosystem network, and a chance to connect with incubators, investors and government departments in Maharashtra.
| Detail | Information |
|---|---|
| Scheme Name | Punyapollo Ahilyadey Holkar Mahila Startup Yojana |
| State | Maharashtra |
| Nodal Department | Skill, Employment, Entrepreneurship and Innovation Department |
| Implementing Agency | Maharashtra State Innovation Society (MSInS) |
| Beneficiaries | Women-led startups in Maharashtra |
| Grant Amount | Rs. 1 lakh to Rs. 25 lakh |
| Application Mode | Online, free of cost |
| Official Website | msins.in |
| Helpline | 022-31059000 |
Required Documents for Mahila Startup Yojana
Women founders should keep the following documents ready before filling the online form:
- Company proposal or business plan of the startup.
- MCA certificate of incorporation and DPIIT recognition certificate.
- Proof of at least 51% women founder equity in the company.
- Audited financial statements showing annual turnover between Rs. 10 lakh and Rs. 1 crore.
- Aadhaar card, PAN card and bank account details of the startup.
How to Check Mahila Startup Yojana Status
Applicants can check the status of their application by logging into the official website. Go to msins.in, click on the Login option, enter the registered mobile number and password, and open the beneficiary status section. The portal shows the current stage of the application.
FAQ's
Is Mahila Startup Yojana a loan or a grant?
It is a grant, not a loan. Selected women-led startups receive a one-time subsidy of Rs. 1 lakh to Rs. 25 lakh, and they do not have to repay it.
Who can apply for Mahila Startup Yojana?
Women-led startups registered in Maharashtra with a valid DPIIT recognition, at least 51% women ownership and annual turnover between Rs. 10 lakh and Rs. 1 crore can apply.
How can I apply for Mahila Startup Yojana?
You can apply online free of cost through the official website at msins.in. The application opens in rounds, so keep checking the portal for the next window.
What is the maximum grant under the scheme?
Selected startups can get a grant of up to Rs. 25 lakh, with the minimum being Rs. 1 lakh, based on their annual turnover and the assessment of the Evaluation Committee.