Introduction to Credit Guarantee Trust for Micro & Small Enterprises (CGTMSE)
The Credit Guarantee Trust for Micro & Small Enterprises (CGTMSE) is a flagship initiative of the Government of India designed to strengthen the Micro, Small and Medium Enterprises (MSME) sector by providing collateral-free credit guarantees to lenders. Established in August 2000, the Credit Guarantee Trust for (CGTMSE) plays a vital role in improving access to finance for small businesses that often struggle to secure loans due to lack of collateral or credit history. By reducing lending risks for banks and financial institutions, the Credit Guarantee Trust for Micro & Small Enterprises (CGTMSE) promotes entrepreneurship, employment generation, and inclusive economic growth.
Establishment, Date and Governing Authority
The Credit Guarantee Trust for Micro & Small Enterprises was set up in August 2000 by the Ministry of Micro, Small & Medium Enterprises (MSME), Government of India, along with the Small Industries Development Bank of India (SIDBI). Since its inception, the Credit Guarantee Trust for Micro & Small Enterprises (CGTMSE) has evolved into a cornerstone policy mechanism for MSME financing.
Official Address:
Credit Guarantee Fund Trust for Micro and Small Enterprises
Swavalamban Bhavan, C-11, G-Block
Bandra Kurla Complex (BKC)
Bandra (East), Mumbai – 400051
Maharashtra, India
Although Credit Guarantee Trust for Micro & Small Enterprises (CGTMSE) is not an exhibition or trade event, it functions as a nationwide financial support institution. Therefore, there are no tickets or stall prices associated with it.
Objective of Credit Guarantee Trust for Micro & Small Enterprises (CGTMSE)
The main objective of the Credit Guarantee Trust for Micro & Small Enterprises (CGTMSE) is to facilitate collateral-free loans to micro and small enterprises. Many small businesses face challenges in securing funding due to lack of property or asset-backed guarantees. The Credit Guarantee Trust for Micro & Small Enterprises (CGTMSE) addresses this issue by providing guarantee cover to member lending institutions for eligible credit facilities extended to MSMEs.
Through risk-sharing mechanisms, the Credit Guarantee Trust for Micro & Small Enterprises (CGTMSE) encourages banks to lend confidently to first-time entrepreneurs and small business owners.
How Credit Guarantee Trust for Micro & Small Enterprises (CGTMSE) Works
Under the Credit Guarantee Trust for Micro & Small Enterprises scheme, eligible borrowers can obtain collateral-free loans up to a specified limit from participating banks and financial institutions. The Trust provides guarantee coverage ranging from 75% to 85% of the sanctioned loan amount, depending on the category of borrower.
The process works as follows:
- The borrower applies for a loan at a member lending institution.
- The bank assesses project viability and sanctions the loan without collateral.
- The loan is covered under Credit Guarantee Trust for Micro & Small Enterprises (CGTMSE).
- In case of default, the Trust compensates the lender as per guarantee terms.
This mechanism significantly reduces the risk burden on lenders and improves credit flow to small enterprises.
Loan Limit and Pricing Structure
The Credit Guarantee Trust for Micro & Small Enterprises (CGTMSE) currently provides guarantee coverage for credit facilities up to ₹5 crore (subject to scheme guidelines).
The pricing structure under Credit Guarantee Trust for Micro & Small Enterprises includes:
- Guarantee Fee (annual fee) charged to the lending institution.
- Service Fee based on loan amount and borrower category.
Borrowers do not pay stall prices or ticket fees, as Credit Guarantee Trust for Micro & Small Enterprises (CGTMSE) is a financial guarantee scheme and not a trade exhibition. However, banks may charge standard loan processing fees and interest rates as per RBI guidelines.
Website and Application Process
Entrepreneurs seeking benefits under the Credit Guarantee Trust for Micro & Small Enterprises (CGTMSE) can access information through the official website:
https://www.cgtmse.in
To avail benefits:
- Approach a participating bank or NBFC.
- Submit a business plan and financial details.
- The lender processes the loan application.
- The lender applies for guarantee cover under Credit Guarantee Trust for Micro & Small Enterprises (CGTMSE).
The borrower does not need to directly apply to the Trust; the application is initiated by the lending institution.
Benefits of Credit Guarantee Trust for Micro & Small Enterprises
The Credit Guarantee Trust for Micro & Small Enterprises offers multiple advantages:
- Collateral-free credit access
- Encouragement for first-generation entrepreneurs
- Reduced lending risk for banks
- Increased formal credit penetration
- Support for women entrepreneurs and SC/ST businesses
By improving financial inclusion, the Credit Guarantee Trust for Micro & Small Enterprises (CGTMSE) strengthens India’s MSME ecosystem and promotes balanced economic growth.
Role in MSME Development
The MSME sector contributes significantly to India’s GDP, exports, and employment. The Credit Guarantee Trust for Micro & Small Enterprises (CGTMSE) acts as a backbone for this sector by facilitating easier credit access.
Through strategic risk mitigation, the Credit Guarantee Trust for Micro & Small Enterprises (CGTMSE) ensures that small businesses receive timely funding for expansion, modernization, working capital, and innovation. This contributes directly to job creation and economic resilience.
Impact on Entrepreneurship and Employment
The Credit Guarantee Trust for Micro & Small Enterprises (CGTMSE) has empowered millions of small businesses since its inception. By removing collateral barriers, it encourages youth, startups, and rural entrepreneurs to launch new ventures.
Credit support under Credit Guarantee Trust for Micro & Small Enterprises stimulates manufacturing, services, and trade sectors, thereby generating employment opportunities across urban and rural India.
Government Support and Policy Integration
The Credit Guarantee Trust for Micro & Small Enterprises (CGTMSE) operates under the Ministry of MSME and aligns with national initiatives such as Make in India, Startup India, and Atmanirbhar Bharat.
Policy enhancements and periodic revisions ensure that Credit Guarantee Trust for Micro & Small Enterprises (CGTMSE) remains responsive to economic changes and emerging business needs.
Why Credit Guarantee Trust for Micro & Small Enterprises (CGTMSE) Is Important
The importance of the Credit Guarantee Trust for Micro & Small Enterprises (CGTMSE) lies in its ability to bridge the credit gap faced by small enterprises. Without collateral requirements, entrepreneurs can focus on business growth rather than asset accumulation.
By fostering financial inclusion and supporting economic diversification, the Credit Guarantee Trust for Micro & Small Enterprises (CGTMSE) strengthens India’s entrepreneurial ecosystem and drives sustainable development.
In conclusion, the Credit Guarantee Trust for Micro & Small Enterprises (CGTMSE) is a transformative financial support mechanism that promotes collateral-free lending to MSMEs. Established in 2000 and headquartered in Mumbai, it continues to play a crucial role in India’s economic development.
Through risk-sharing with financial institutions, policy alignment with national development goals, and focus on inclusive entrepreneurship, the Credit Guarantee Trust for Micro & Small Enterprises (CGTMSE) remains a cornerstone initiative for empowering small businesses across India.


