The CM Punjab Asaan Karobar Loan Scheme is a flagship initiative of the Government of Punjab to support youth entrepreneurship, startups, and small businesses across the province. This scheme provides interest-free loans in Punjab and low-markup financing to help individuals establish or expand their businesses. With a simple application process and flexible repayment plans, it is a golden opportunity for aspiring entrepreneurs.
If you’re looking to launch a new startup, expand your existing venture, or invest in a professional setup, the Asaan Karobar Finance Scheme ensures financial support without the burden of high-interest loans.
What is the CM Punjab Asaan Karobar Loan?
The Asaan Karobar Loan is designed to empower the youth and reduce unemployment by providing easy access to finance. The 22nd Provincial Cabinet Meeting approved the Punjab Karobar Finance Scheme on January 14, 2025. CM Maryam Nawaz Sharif also announced the provision of free land for the Asaan Karobar Scheme. Moreover, a target was set to establish 100,000 business start-ups in Punjab.
This multimillion-rupee scheme launched by the Punjab government in Pakistan provides a maximum of Rs. 30 million (3 crores) as interest-free loans. Financial assistance will be provided to entrepreneurs across various industries, including agriculture. Jobs will be created, exports will be boosted, and economic development will be driven.
Key Features of the Loan Scheme
Loan Range: From Rs. 100,000 up to Rs. 10 million depending on the business type. Under the enhanced program, loans extend up to 30 million.
Interest-Free Loan Punjab: Small loans are provided on an interest-free basis, while larger amounts are available on minimal markup. Both Tier-1 and Tier-2 offer 0% interest across all categories.
Easy Installments: Flexible repayment options with monthly installments spread over a maximum tenure of 5 years.
Special Quota for Women: Reserved loans for women entrepreneurs in Punjab. Female applicants, along with transgender and differently-abled entrepreneurs, receive favorable equity terms.
Youth Entrepreneurship Loan: Priority given to young applicants with feasible business ideas and practical business plans.
Job Creation: Thousands of jobs expected through new and growing businesses. The scheme has already supported 57,000+ new businesses and 6,700+ women-led ventures.
Grace Periods: 6 months for new/startups, 3 months for existing businesses before repayment begins.
Subsidies: For solar energy and cleaner business equipment to support renewable energy and sustainable economic development.
Objectives & Context of CM Punjab Asaan Karobar Finance
Economic Growth Starts Here
Punjab needs strong local businesses to lift its economy. The asan karobar scheme (punjab government loan scheme) empowers publishers of economic growth by supporting those who want to build, invest in transport, or open their laptop-powered ventures across cities like Lahore, Rawalpindi, and Multan.
Support for Entrepreneurs & SMEs
The scheme targets SMEs, women, youth, and start-ups. That includes grocery stores, transport businesses in Karachi and Punjab, and small ventures in energy and agriculture sectors. It’s a chance to fund sustainable economic development, renewable energy, and business ka tarika.
Job Creation & Unemployment Reduction
Every business funded means new jobs. The goal? Fewer unemployed youth, more entrepreneurs earning in PKR, and more households thriving. CM Maryam Nawaz Sharif’s vision connects the scheme to job creation. Within months, 107,000+ loans worth PKR 61 billion were approved.
Fair Financing with Local Trust
The scheme offers perks like:
- 0% interest across both tiers (Tier-1 & Tier-2)
- Grace periods: 6 months for new startups, 3 months for existing businesses
- Equity options: Tier-1 has 0% for regular, women, transgender, and differently-abled entrepreneurs get flexibility too
- Subsidies: For solar energy and cleaner business equipment
These measures protect small entrepreneurs from traps of unfair loans.
Eligibility Criteria for Assan Karobar Finance Scheme
To apply for the CM Punjab Asaan Karobar Loan, applicants must:
- Be a resident of Punjab
- Have a valid CNIC and NTN
- Fall within the 18 to 50 years age bracket (some sources indicate 25 to 55 years)
- Present a practical and feasible business plan
- Small Enterprises with annual sales up to PKR 150M
- Medium Enterprises with annual sales > PKR 150M – PKR 800M
- You must have a good credit history
- Tax filers must be active with the FBR
- Businesses and residents must be located in Punjab
- Must own or rent a place for business (rent agreement/Transfer Letter/Registry of Business and Residence Addresses)
- Apply individually or as part of a group/partnership
A two-tiered scheme (punjab rozgar scheme) is based on the loan amount and is structured accordingly. Tier-1 applicants are eligible for an unsecured loan up to 5 million, which requires personal guarantees. In Tier-2, applicants can obtain a loan between Rs. 5 million and Rs. 30 million.
Key Benefits of Assan Karobar Finance Scheme
Interest-Free Loans
You can borrow from PKR 1 million up to PKR 30 million. Zero interest for both Tier-1 and Tier-2 loans. Pay back over 5 years in easy monthly installments.
Subsidized Land for SMEs & Start-ups
The Punjab government offers cheaper land for small businesses and new ventures. That means less overhead from day one.
Asaan Karobar Card (SME Card)
CM also approved the Assan Karobar Card, also known as the Assan Business Card. This card helps you pay for vendors, utility bills, and govt fees—without cash. But remember: only 25% of your loan can be withdrawn as cash.
Extra Incentives
- Free training and faster approvals. You won’t be stuck waiting around meet these requirements:
- A 6-month grace period for new startups, 3 months for existing businesses (punjab.gov.pk)
- No need for NOCs, licenses, or detailed business plans—get funds without delay
Read also: Punjab E-Taxi Scheme 2025 — Eligibility, Benefits & How to Apply
CM Loan Scheme Detail For Assan Karobar Finance Scheme
Equity Contribution & Fees
Tier-1:
- 0% equity for most businesses
- 25% equity for leased commercial vehicles (punjab.gov.pk)
Tier-2:
- 20% equity normally
- 10% equity for women, transgender and differently-abled entrepreneurs
Processing fees:
- Tier-1: PKR 5,000
- Tier-2: PKR 10,000
Repayment Terms
- Max tenure: 5 years
- Grace period: 6 months for new/start-ups, 3 months for existing businesses
- Installments: Equal monthly payments
- Interest: 0% across both tiers
- Late fee: ~PKR 1/1,000 per day (on overdue)
How to Apply Online for Asaan Karobar Loan
CM Punjab Asaan Karobar Finance Apply Online اسان کاروبار فنانس اسکیم آن لائن درخواست دینے کا طریقہ
Here’s a clear, step-by-step breakdown of how to apply online for the Asaan Karobar Finance Scheme and Karobar Card:
Instructions to Apply Asaan Karobar Finance Scheme
Before you start your application, you must have scanned copies or clear visible pictures of the following documents:
- Photo / Selfie of passport size
- Front View of CNIC
- Backside of CNIC
Ensure the following before Apply Asaan Karobar Finance Scheme:
- Security Details must be provided for T2 Loans, e.g., Registration Certificate, Fard, Government Security, etc.
- Registration of a mobile number with your CNIC
- The names, copies of CNIC, and mobile numbers of two references (not blood relatives)
- Your tax filing status is active
- Details of business income and expenses should be provided
- Rent Agreement/Transfer Letter/Registry of Business and Residence Addresses, whichever applies
- The application criteria must be met
- The Application Fee must be available
FAQs – Asaan Karobar Finance Scheme 2025
1. What is the purpose of the Asaan Karobar Finance Scheme?
The scheme is designed to make business financing simple and accessible for new and existing entrepreneurs. Its goal is to promote small business growth, job creation, and local enterprise development across Punjab.
2. What eligibility requirements do I need to meet?
Applicants must be residents of Punjab, hold a valid CNIC, and fall within the approved age bracket of 21–57 years. A clean financial profile and updated tax status may also be considered during evaluation.
3. How much financing can I apply for under this scheme?
The scheme offers flexible limits, from small startup financing to higher amounts suited for business expansion. The financing structure may vary depending on whether the case is treated as secured or unsecured.
4. Is there a grace period before I start repayments?
Yes. Newly launched businesses may receive a grace period of up to six months, while established businesses typically get a shorter grace window before monthly repayments begin.
5. Will I receive a business card for payments and withdrawals?
Successful applicants may be issued an Asaan Karobar Finance Card, which works like a controlled business debit card—allowing approved expenses, transactions, and withdrawals directly related to business activity.
6. How can I check the current status of my application?
You can log in to the official Punjab finance portal using your registered credentials and visit the “Application Status” section to track processing, approvals, or any required updates.