Bharat Ratna Dr. Babasaheb Ambedkar Investment Fund for SC/ST
By IDBI Capital
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Quick Answer
An investment fund providing debt and equity to sustainable enterprises fully owned by Scheduled Caste (SC) and Scheduled Tribe (ST) entrepreneurs in Maharashtra.
- Funding amount
- Varies
- Funding type
- Equity
- Provider
- IDBI Capital
- Application deadline
- Rolling
- Location
- Maharashtra
About this funding program
The Bharat Ratna Dr. Babasaheb Ambedkar Investment Fund, managed by IDBI Capital Markets & Securities Ltd., is a pioneering initiative formulated by the Honourable Chief Minister of Maharashtra. Launched on the 125th birth anniversary of Dr. Babasaheb Ambedkar, its core objective is to promote financial independence and self-sufficiency among Scheduled Caste (SC) and Scheduled Tribe (ST) entrepreneurs within the state.
This fund aims to provide crucial financial assistance, encompassing both debt and equity investments, to sustainable enterprises. These businesses must be entirely owned and controlled by SC/ST entrepreneurs, ensuring that the benefits directly uplift these communities. The investment structure is flexible, accommodating various instruments such as equity, convertible instruments, and debentures.
While the fund is sector-agnostic, supporting all manufacturing enterprises as defined by the MSMED Act 2006, it also prioritizes several key service sectors. These include Health Care, Renewable and Non-Conventional Energy, Agri-ancillary, Food Processing, Energy efficiency, Clean Technology, Light Engineering, Information Technology, Medical Devices, Water technologies, Bio-Medical, and Consumption-led sectors. The fund explicitly avoids investments in alcohol/tobacco industries, gold/diamond trade, real estate, generic trading, and NBFCs (except Micro Finance Institutions), aligning with government policies and ethical investment practices. This strategic focus ensures that investments contribute to high-growth, impactful sectors while adhering to responsible funding guidelines and promoting inclusive economic development.
Eligibility
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Full eligibility criteria — entity type, stage, sector, founder profile and registration requirements — plus your fit for this program. Sign up to view.
Funding providers
IDBI Capital Markets & Securities Ltd, known as IDBI Capital or ICMS, is a wholly owned subsidiary of IDBI Bank Ltd. It is an investment banking and securities company with its registered office in the IDBI Tower at the World Trade Centre, Cuffe Parade, Mumbai. Most of what it…
Learn moreThe Government of Maharashtra runs one of India's most comprehensive state-level startup ecosystems. The Maharashtra State Innovation and Startup Policy provides a structured framework for nurturing entrepreneurship through seed funding, mentorship, incubation support, and…
Learn moreBenefits & Funding
What You Get
The Babasaheb Ambedkar Investment Fund provides essential capital in the form of debt and equity investments to eligible SC/ST-owned enterprises. This includes flexible instruments like equity shares, convertible instruments, and debentures, designed to support both immediate operational needs and long-term growth. Beyond direct capital, the fund emphasizes fostering sustainable businesses with strong governance and ethical practices. Beneficiaries gain access to a network that can facilitate market access, investor connections, and strategic partnerships, all crucial for scaling innovative and impactful ventures. The fund also looks for excellent entrepreneurial qualities and strong capabilities in innovation, providing a platform for growth-oriented businesses.
- Disbursement
- Tranched
Timelines & Process
Applications
Rolling basis
Selection Process
Applications are subject to a rigorous evaluation process conducted by the competent authorities within IDBI Capital Markets & Securities Ltd. The selection committee assesses applications based on a comprehensive set of criteria, including the entrepreneur's qualities, strength in innovation (with a preference for IP-based solutions), business scalability, clarity of the business model, adherence to sound governance standards and ethical practices, and the capability of the management team. The fund reserves the right to incorporate additional company-specific criteria. The final decision regarding investment or divestment is subject to the explicit approval of these competent authorities, ensuring a thorough and judicious selection of investees.
Application Process
- 1
Submit Application
Applicants complete and submit the online application form along with all required documents and a detailed business proposal.
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How to apply
Four steps from draft to disbursement — one action each.
- 1
Draft your application
Answer the form inside the grant tracker — AI drafts each response using your past answers, so you're not starting from a blank page.
- 2
See the questions before you start
Download every question this programme's application form asks, so you can prepare your answers offline before opening the portal.
- 3
Submit on the official portal
Use the official application link and verify all details before final submission.
- 4
Follow up
Reach out 5–7 days after submitting to confirm receipt and ask about the review timeline.
Program templates & documents
Files the program publishes for applicants — download these and apply in the prescribed format.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the primary objective of the Babasaheb Ambedkar Investment Fund?
The fund's primary objective is to promote and provide finance to sustainable enterprises that are fully owned by Scheduled Caste (SC) and Scheduled Tribe (ST) entrepreneurs, making them self-sufficient and financially independent. This is a key initiative by the Maharashtra government.
Which types of businesses are eligible for investment?
The fund is sector-agnostic, welcoming all manufacturing enterprises as per the MSMED Act 2006. It also targets specific service sectors such as Healthcare, Renewable Energy, Food Processing, IT, Medical Devices, and Consumption-led sectors. Businesses involved in alcohol/tobacco, gold/diamond trade, real estate, and generic trading are explicitly excluded.
What are the ownership requirements for SC/ST entrepreneurs?
For private/public limited companies, promoters and directors must have a 100% controlling stake initially. For proprietorships and partnership firms, SC/ST entrepreneurs must hold a 100% stake. Post-investment, the shareholding of SC/ST entrepreneurs must never fall below 51% to maintain eligibility.
Is there a requirement for co-financing from the entrepreneur?
Yes, a significant co-financing component is required. At least 20% of the total capital employed in the business must be contributed by the erstwhile shareholders/promoters of the company or any other investor. This ensures commitment and shared risk.
Where must the business operations and entrepreneurs be domiciled?
Both the entrepreneur and all operations of the business must be domiciled within the state of Maharashtra. This geographical focus is a core eligibility criterion for the fund.
What kind of support is provided beyond funding?
Beyond direct capital, the fund looks for excellent entrepreneurial qualities, strong innovation capabilities (preferably IP-based), and highly scalable businesses with a proven track record. It aims to support companies in building strong management teams, implementing sound governance standards, and developing robust systems to facilitate sustainable growth and success.
Sources
Data on this page is compiled from official program and provider references.
