MSME ESDP Scheme 2026: Free Business & Skill Training, Eligibility & How to Apply
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Quick answer
The Entrepreneurship and Skill Development Programme (ESDP) by the Ministry of MSME equips youth with business and technical skills to start their own enterprises. Trainees receive practical training, mentoring, and support with Udyam registration, with fee exemptions for priority categories. Candidates can apply by approaching their local MSME Development Institute or MSME Technology Centre.
At a glance
| Main benefit | Free Business and Technical Skill Training |
| Ministry / department | Ministry Of Micro, Small and Medium Enterprises |
| Level | Central Government |
| Age | 18 years and above |
| Application mode | Online & offline |
About the scheme
The Entrepreneurship and Skill Development Programme (ESDP) is an initiative by the Office of the Development Commissioner, Ministry of MSME, created to foster an entrepreneurial mindset among youth and job seekers. The initiative conducts awareness drives, hands-on skill development courses, and advanced management programmes across districts and technical institutions like ITIs and polytechnics. It focuses on motivating potential entrepreneurs, upgrading vocational competencies, and assisting new enterprises with registration and modern business practices.
Benefits
- Entrepreneurship Awareness Programme (EAP): One-day mentoring and awareness sessions organized at the district level for 50 to 100 participants.
- Existing E-SDP: A 6-week hands-on training programme focused on product and process skills for setting up new livelihood and rural enterprises.
- Advanced E-SDP: Minimum 1-week advanced training conducted through premier institutes such as IITs, IIMs, IISc, NITs, and CSIR labs for around 20 participants.
- Management Development Programme (MDP): 1-week course on modern business practices, financial management, and operational decision-making for 25 to 30 participants.
- Advanced MDP: Minimum 1-week advanced management training conducted through State Administrative Training Institutes and central/state institutions.
- Complete fee exemption for SC, ST, women, differently-abled persons, Ex-Servicemen, and Below Poverty Line (BPL) candidates.
- Vocational training opportunities, government project exposure, experience certificates, and stipends for hired MBA and Engineering students.
- Direct assistance from Implementing Agencies for Udyam Registration upon completing the course.
Who can apply (eligibility)
- Applicant must be at least 18 years of age (relaxation may be granted to school dropouts at the discretion of the institute head).
- Open to youth and individuals interested in starting an industrial, business, or self-employment venture.
- Educational qualification criteria are decided by the respective programme conducting organization based on the training trade.
- Preference is given to candidates belonging to SC, ST, women, Ex-Servicemen, differently-abled, and BPL categories.
Who cannot apply
- Individuals younger than 18 years of age who do not receive a specific relaxation from the head of the training institution.
- Applicants who do not satisfy the specific educational qualification specified for a particular advanced course.
Documents required
- Identity proof (Aadhaar Card or Voter ID Card)
- Proof of age
- Caste certificate (for SC/ST candidates claiming fee exemption/preference)
- Disability certificate (if applicable)
- BPL card or proof (if applicable)
- Any other document specified by the training institute
How to apply
- 1Check training schedules and notifications issued by your local MSME Development Institute (MSME-DI) or MSME Technology Centre (MSME-TC).
- 2Access institute details and addresses via the official portal at dcmsme.gov.in/All_MSME_DIs_TCs.aspx.
- 3Submit your application form online through the field office portal or visit the nearest MSME-DI/TC in person.
- 4Provide required identification and category certificates to verify your eligibility and claim fee exemptions.
- 5Attend the selection assessment or counseling session conducted by the implementing agency to finalize your seat.
Frequently asked questions
What is the MSME ESDP scheme?+
It is a skill and entrepreneurship development scheme organized by the Ministry of MSME to motivate and train individuals to launch their own business ventures.
What is the minimum age required to join ESDP training?+
Participants must be at least 18 years old, though institution heads can grant relaxation in special cases like school dropouts.
Is there any application fee for the training programmes?+
Fees depend on the conducting agency, but candidates from SC, ST, women, PwD, Ex-Servicemen, and BPL categories are fully exempted from fee payment.
What is the duration of an E-SDP course?+
The standard E-SDP runs for 6 weeks, while Advanced E-SDP courses run for a minimum of 1 week.
Can students apply for internships or stipends under ESDP?+
Yes, MBA and Engineering students engaged for vocational studies, technology compendiums, or assigned government work receive an experience certificate and a stipend.
How can I apply for an ESDP programme?+
You can apply by reaching out to your nearest MSME Development Institute or MSME Technology Centre, or via online application links published by the field offices.
NaukriZila is not a government website. Apply only on the official portal; never pay anyone to apply for a government scheme. Source: myScheme (Government of India)