Entrepreneurship and Development Programme

Entrepreneurship and Skill Development Programme (ESDP) is a Government of India scheme implemented by the Ministry of MSME through the Office of the Development Commissioner (MSME), notified on 25 March 2022, and continued under the Development of MSMEs vertical (15th Finance Commission period).

The scheme aims to promote entrepreneurship culture, develop skills, and support creation of new MSMEs by providing structured training programmes, capacity building, and technical knowledge. For you as an MSME or aspiring entrepreneur, this scheme helps build business skills, improve employability, and support enterprise creation through training and mentoring.

Key Features
Financial Assistance
Eligibility Criteria
Documents Required
Application Process

Key Features

Entrepreneurship awareness creation: Focus on motivating individuals to consider entrepreneurship as a career option through awareness programmes.
Skill development programmes: Provides structured training to develop technical and vocational skills required for starting and managing businesses.
Multiple programme formats: Includes EAP, E-SDP, and MDP for different levels of training and business stages.
Inclusive participation: Special focus on SC/ST, women, differently-abled, ex-servicemen, and BPL category participants.
No fee for weaker sections: Free participation for SC/ST, women, and disadvantaged groups.
Advanced training opportunities: High-end training through reputed institutions like IITs, IIMs, and national institutes.
Hands-on training approach: Includes practical exposure, demonstrations, and industry-oriented learning.
Government-supported implementation: Conducted through MSME-DIs, Technology Centres, and approved institutions.

Financial Assistance

Component	Assistance Provided	Detailed Explanation
Entrepreneurship Awareness Programme (EAP)	Up to ₹20,000 per programme	One-day awareness programme for 50–100 participants. Example: Awareness camp conducted to motivate youth towards business.
Entrepreneurship Skill Development Programme (E-SDP)	Up to ₹1.25 lakh per programme	Six-week training for 25–30 participants. Example: Skill training for food processing or mobile repair business.
Advanced E-SDP	80% cost (up to ₹50,000 per candidate)	Training through IITs/IIMs etc. Example: Advanced training in AI, biotech, or e-commerce.
Management Development Programme (MDP)	Up to ₹50,000 per programme	One-week management training for MSMEs. Example: Training on marketing, finance, or operations.
Advanced MDP	₹20,000–₹40,000 per candidate	High-level management training through reputed institutes. Example: Leadership training for MSME owners.

Eligibility Criteria

Minimum age: 18 years
Eligible applicants:
Individuals aspiring to become entrepreneurs
Existing MSME owners
Students and youth
Professionals seeking skill development
Preference given to:
SC/ST candidates
Women entrepreneurs
Ex-servicemen
Differently-abled persons
BPL category
Additional conditions:
Participation based on programme requirements
Qualification may vary depending on training type

Documents Required

Aadhaar Card
PAN Card (if available)
Educational qualification documents (if required)
Photograph
Application form for training programme

Application Process

Option 1: Apply with Bullit, Recommended

Start instantly with our guided application support, where our team verifies eligibility, prepares documentation, and coordinates with the Industries Department on your behalf. Using our business loans and compliance calendar, you can track progress while focusing on project execution, we manage the application end-to-end.

Option 2: Apply Online (Government Process)

Register on MSME Portal / My MSME Portal
Check available ESDP / EAP / MDP programmes
Select preferred training programme
Fill application form
Upload required details/documents
Submit application
Screening and selection by implementing agency
Receive confirmation for training programme
Attend training programme
Receive certificate after completion