The Punjab Chief Minister, Maryam Nawaz Sharif, has introduced the Aasaan Karobaar Finance Scheme, the province’s largest business finance initiative, to support young entrepreneurs and small business owners in Punjab. With a budget of over 84 billion rupees, the scheme aims to create employment opportunities and boost the local economy.
The Punjab Government’s Asaan Karobaar Scheme’s goals
The Aasaan Karobaar Scheme by the Punjab Government aims to create job opportunities for youth by providing financial assistance to small businesses and startups, encouraging entrepreneurship, and empowering diverse groups like men, women, transgender individuals, and persons with disabilities, thereby contributing to Pakistan’s economic growth.
Read More: Apply online for an Asaan Karobar Card at akc.punjab.gov.pk.
Entrepreneurial Interest-Free Loans
The Aasaan Karobaar Finance Scheme offers interest-free loans ranging from 1 million to 30 million rupees for startups and businesses, with repayments within five years. The Aasaan Karobaar Card provides loans up to 1 million rupees, repayable within three years, allowing small business owners to access funds for business-related purposes like raw material purchases and government fees.
Inclusive Eligibility Criteria
The program, open to eligible residents aged 25-55, requires no default history in financial institutions, active tax filing, and Punjab residency. It promotes social equality and economic participation, ensuring equal opportunities for women, transgender individuals, and people with disabilities, promoting social equality.
Simple Application Procedure
Aasaan Karobaar Finance Scheme Application Process
• Visit akf.punjab.gov.pk for the Finance Scheme.
• Apply for the Aasaan Karobaar Card via akc.punjab.gov.pk.
• Fill out the application form with business details and tax status.
• Use toll-free number 1786 for assistance.
• The government ensures no delays or complications.
Table: Punjab Government Aasaan Karobaar Scheme Overview
| Feature | Details |
|---|---|
| Loan Amount | Interest-free loans: PKR 1 million – 30 million |
| Repayment Period | Finance Scheme: 5 yearsAasaan Karobaar Card: 3 years |
| Eligibility | Punjab residents, aged 25-55No default historyActive tax filer |
| Target Groups | Men, women, transgender individuals, and people with disabilities |
| Application Process | Online via akf.punjab.gov.pk or akc.punjab.gov.pk |
| Helpline | Toll-free number: 1786 |
| Budget | 84 billion PKR allocated |
| Key Benefits | Supports startups; Promotes inclusive entrepreneurship; Flexible repayment terms |
Benefits of the Scheme
Benefits of the Financial Inclusion Scheme:
• It helps people with low resources launch their businesses.
• Encourages economic expansion by supporting small enterprises.
• Promotes equitable opportunity for female entrepreneurs.
• Provides adjustable payback schedules.
In Conclusion
Maryam Nawaz launched the Aasaan Karobaar Finance Scheme, a groundbreaking initiative in Punjab’s economic landscape. The scheme offers interest-free loans, empowers young entrepreneurs, and promotes inclusive growth. Its simplified application process and inclusive eligibility criteria aim to transform lives and contribute to Pakistan’s overall development.
