The Punjab government has launched the CM Punjab Rozgar Scheme 2025, offering interest-free and subsidised business loans to support young entrepreneurs, startups, and small enterprises. The initiative, introduced under Chief Minister Maryam Nawaz’s leadership, aims to address financing barriers faced by aspiring business owners and strengthen the province’s entrepreneurial landscape.

Why the CM Punjab Rozgar Scheme 2025 was introduced

Officials say the scheme targets the long-standing challenge of limited access to credit for small businesses and new ventures. Many young applicants struggle with traditional bank requirements, including collateral and lengthy approval processes. Through a government-backed system, the new scheme aims to expand financial inclusion, encourage self-employment, and promote women-led and skill-based entrepreneurship.

At the policy level, the program focuses on job creation, digital processing, and transparent loan approval systems. The initiative is being implemented in partnership with the Bank of Punjab (BOP) and the Punjab Small Industries Corporation (PSIC).

How the Rozgar scheme works

The CM Punjab Rozgar Scheme 2025 operates under the Asaan Karobar Finance Program and offers two different loan products based on business needs:

Asaan Karobar Finance (up to Rs. 3 crore): Designed for startups, manufacturing units, and medium-sized businesses.
Asaan Karobar Card (up to Rs. 10 lakh): Created for freelancers, traders, and small enterprises needing day-to-day financial support.

These loans come with interest-free or low-markup options, depending on the category, and are processed through a digital verification system to reduce delays.

Key features and benefits

The program introduces several measures aimed at improving accessibility and transparency:

Loan size ranging from Rs. 5 lakh to Rs. 3 crore
0% markup for small loans and subsidised markup for larger financing
Coverage for sectors including IT, services, retail, agriculture, manufacturing, and e-commerce
Special focus on women, skilled youth, and differently-abled entrepreneurs
Flexible repayment schedules, including monthly and quarterly options
Faster approvals through an online verification process

Officials describe it as one of the most accessible government-backed loan initiatives available to business owners.

Eligibility criteria for applicants

The scheme is open to residents of Punjab who meet a few basic requirements:

Valid CNIC and Punjab residency
Age between 20 and 50 years (up to 57 for professionals)
A workable business idea or existing small enterprise
No history of loan default
Basic education or vocational training is preferred

Applications are open to individuals from all professions, including traders, artisans, service providers, and technology professionals.

How to apply online

The government has fully digitised the application system to avoid middlemen and ensure transparency.
Applicants can apply through the official portal:

Visit akf.punjab.gov.pk/cmpunjabfinance
Create an account using CNIC and mobile number
Select between Asaan Karobar Finance or Asaan Karobar Card
Upload required documents
Submit for verification

Once approved, applicants receive an SMS from the Bank of Punjab for the next steps.

Documents required

CNIC
Passport-size photograph
Business plan or feasibility report
Utility bill for address verification
Educational or vocational certificate
Bank account details

Officials advise applicants to prepare a clear business plan to improve approval chances.

Asaan Karobar Card for daily business needs

The Asaan Karobar Card functions like a business credit card and is intended for daily operational expenses.

Key features include:

Credit limit of up to Rs. 10 lakh
One-year validity with renewal option
0% markup
Payments for suppliers, utilities, and services
Cash withdrawal allowed within a defined limit
Simple repayment mechanism with a grace period

This option is expected to benefit freelancers, home-based businesses, and small vendors.

Economic goals and long-term vision

According to officials, the CM Punjab Rozgar Scheme 2025 forms part of a broader effort to boost employment and support the province’s economic transformation. Early assessments show that one funded business can create three to five additional jobs, while the initiative is also expected to support women-led ventures, formalise small enterprises, and expand manufacturing and IT activity.

By 2026, the government aims to establish a sustainable financial ecosystem for youth-led startups and SMEs.