TREAD: Women Entrepreneurship Support

About This Scheme

Trade Related Entrepreneurship Assistance and Development (TREAD) scheme empowers women entrepreneurs through trade-related training, information, counselling, and financial support. The government provides up to 30 percent of the project cost as a grant to NGOs and institutions running women entrepreneurship programmes, while the remaining 70 percent is financed by lending agencies. The scheme specifically targets women from rural and underserved communities who need both capital and capability building to start and grow small enterprises. TREAD is often used in combination with Stand Up India and Udyam Registration to create end-to-end support pathways for women moving from livelihood activities to formal MSME status.

Ministry: Ministry of Micro, Small & Medium Enterprises

Eligibility

Women entrepreneurs (individuals or groups); implemented through eligible NGOs and institutions; women seeking training, counselling, or financial support for starting/growing enterprises.

Key Benefits

• Government grant of up to 30% of total project cost to partnering NGO
• Remaining 70% financed by lending institutions at concessional rates
• Trade-related training and capacity building for women
• Information, counselling, and handholding support
• Focus on self-employment and micro-enterprise development

Application Process

1. 1Eligible NGO/institution submits proposal to the Ministry of MSME
2. 2Proposal evaluated for training content, target women, and viability
3. 3Grant approved and disbursed to the NGO/institution
4. 4NGO implements training and connects women with lending agencies

Documents Required

• NGO registration certificate
• Detailed project proposal
• List of target women beneficiaries
• Budget and training curriculum

Official Links

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