Entrepreneur Support Scheme (ESS)
Assistance proportional to fixed capital investment: General category 15% (max Rs 30 lakh); Young (18-45), Women, SC/ST and NRK entrepreneurs 25% (max Rs 40 lakh); additional 10% (max Rs 10 lakh) for priority-sector units and units in Idukki/Wayanad/Kasargode/Pathanamthitta; additional 10% (max Rs 10 lakh) for adopting new approved technology. Total assistance per enterprise capped at Rs 40 lakh. Startup support up to 50% of eligible assistance (max Rs 3 lakh).
Maximum benefit value
₹40 L
Eligibility
- Micro, Small and Medium Enterprises engaged in manufacturing
- Must have filed Udyam registration
- Loan from a financial institution not mandatory
- Must remain operational continuously for 5 years from commencement of production
- 30% of earmarked assistance reserved for micro enterprises
How to apply
Apply online to the Directorate of Industries & Commerce / District Industries Centre; startup support before production, investment support within one year of commencement, technology support within 6 months of acquiring approved technology. Application fee Rs 1100 per unit.
Required documents
- Udyam registration
- Proof of fixed capital investment
- Proof of commencement of commercial production
- Category proof (women/SC-ST/young/NRK where claimed)
- Application fee remittance (Rs 1100 per unit)
Official sources
Verification notes
Figures verified on official industry.kerala.gov.in. Overall cap Rs 40 lakh per enterprise. Confirm current priority-sector list and district list. [AI-gathered from official sources on 2026-07-05; needs team review]