The Asaan Karobar 2026 Loan Scheme, officially titled the CM Punjab Asaan Karobar Finance Program, is a major financial inclusion initiative by the Government of Punjab to support startups and small-to-medium enterprises (SMEs). The scheme aims to bridge the credit gap for entrepreneurs who struggle to access traditional bank loans by offering affordable, transparent, and largely digital financing.

For the 2026 cycle, applications open in January 2026, with an expected last date of February 15, 2026 (subject to extension). By the end of this guide, you will clearly understand loan tiers, eligibility, online application steps, and key deadlines—so you can apply confidently without agents.

Understanding the Asaan Karobar Finance Program

Asaan Karobar is designed to empower entrepreneurs across Punjab—whether launching a new startup or expanding an existing business. The program emphasizes ease of access, reduced markup, and digital processing to minimize delays and middlemen.

A key feature for smaller loans is the Asaan Karobar Card (Digital SME Card), which enables revolving credit and cashless payments to suppliers, improving transparency and business cash flow.

Loan Details & Financing Tiers (2026)

The scheme offers two main tiers based on business size and financing needs:

Feature	Tier 1 (Interest-Free)	Tier 2 (SME Financing)
Loan Amount	Up to PKR 1 Million	PKR 5 Million to 30 Million
Interest Rate	0% (Interest-Free)	Low markup (estimated 6%–8%)
Tenure	Up to 3 years	Up to 5 years
Grace Period	3 months	3 to 6 months
Security	Personal guarantee	Collateral / property mortgage

Note: Loans up to PKR 1 million are issued with the Asaan Karobar Card for revolving credit and digital supplier payments.

Eligibility Criteria for Asaan Karobar 2026

Applicants must meet the following requirements:

• Residency: Punjab resident with a valid CNIC
• Age Limit: Generally 21–55 years (some categories up to 60)
• Business Status: New startup with a viable plan or an existing business seeking expansion
• Credit History: Clean ECIB report (no bank default)
• Priority Groups: Quotas for women entrepreneurs, youth, and persons with disabilities

Incomplete or inaccurate information may lead to rejection.

How to Apply Online for Asaan Karobar Loan Scheme 2026 (Step-by-Step)

The application process is fully digital to ensure transparency:

Step 1: Visit the Official Portal

Apply via the Punjab Government Finance Portal or the Bank of Punjab (BOP) official website.

Step 2: Registration

Create an account using your CNIC and a mobile number registered in your own name.

Step 3: Fill the Application Form

Provide personal details, business location, nature of business, and required loan amount.

Step 4: Upload Required Documents

• Scanned CNIC
• Recent passport-size photograph
• Business Plan / Feasibility Report (mandatory for startups)
• Proof of business address (electricity bill or rent agreement)

Step 5: Submit & Track

Pay the processing fee (approx. PKR 500 for Tier 1), submit the form, and save your Tracking ID to monitor application status online.

Important Dates to Remember

• Start Date: January 2026
• Expected Last Date: February 15, 2026

Applicants are advised to check the official portal regularly, as deadlines may be extended.

Verification & Approval Process

After submission, applications undergo verification that includes:

• CNIC and personal data checks
• Credit history review (ECIB)
• Business plan assessment
• Field verification (if required)

Approved applicants receive disbursement details through official channels only.

Key Benefits of Asaan Karobar Scheme

• Interest-free financing for small startups
• Affordable markup for SME expansion
• Digital processing and tracking
• Special support for women and youth
• Reduced dependency on informal lenders

For News readers, the scheme represents a major push toward SME-led economic growth in Punjab.

Final Thoughts

The Asaan Karobar 2026 Loan Scheme offers a practical and accessible pathway for entrepreneurs in Punjab to start or scale their businesses with government-backed support. By applying online, preparing a solid business plan, and following official guidelines, eligible applicants can secure financing smoothly.
You now have a complete overview of Asaan Karobar 2026—loan tiers, eligibility, application steps, and deadlines—so you can apply with clarity and confidence.

FAQs (Short Answered)

1. Is the Asaan Karobar Tier 1 loan really interest-free?
Yes, Tier 1 offers 0% interest up to PKR 1 million.

2. Can a new startup apply without prior business history?
Yes, with a strong feasibility or business plan.

3. What is the processing fee for Tier 1?
Approximately PKR 500.

4. Who issues the Asaan Karobar Card?
The card is issued through partner banks under the program framework.

5. Can deadlines be extended?
Yes, extensions are possible—check the official portal regularly.