"CM Maryam Nawaz Launches Historic Rs132 Billion Interest-Free Loan Schemes to Empower Young Entrepreneurs in Punjab"

In a significant move to bolster entrepreneurship and stimulate economic growth, Punjab Chief Minister Maryam Nawaz Sharif has unveiled the province's largest-ever business finance initiative. Launched in January 2025, the dual-faceted program comprises the **Easy Business Finance Scheme** and the **Easy Business Card Scheme, collectively allocating over Rs132 billion to support aspiring entrepreneurs across Punjab.

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Empowering Entrepreneurs Through Interest-Free Loans

The Easy Business Finance Scheme is designed to provide substantial financial support to medium and large-scale business ventures. Under this scheme, eligible applicants can access interest-free loans ranging from Rs1 million to Rs30 million. These loans are to be repaid over a five-year period in manageable monthly installments, with a three-month grace period following the disbursement of the first installment.

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Complementing this, the Easy Business Card Scheme targets small businesses and startups, offering interest-free loans of up to Rs1 million. Repayment for these loans is structured over three years. The Easy Business Card facilitates payments for raw materials, government fees, taxes, and utility bills, and allows for up to 25% cash withdrawal,

 Inclusive Eligibility Criteria

The schemes are inclusive, welcoming applications from men, women, transgender individuals, and persons with disabilities aged between 25 and 55 years, residing in Punjab. Applicants must be active tax filers and should not have any defaults with financial institutions citeturn0search5.

Streamlined Application Process

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To ensure accessibility, the Punjab government has established dedicated online portals for applications:

Easy Business Finance Scheme**: [akf.punjab.gov.pk](https://akf.punjab.gov.pk)

Easy Business Card Scheme**: [akc.punjab.gov.pk](https://akc.punjab.gov.pk)

Additionally, a toll-free helpline (1786) has been activated to assist applicants with inquiries and guidance throughout the application process citeturn0search5.

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Strategic Economic Development

Chief Minister Maryam Nawaz emphasized that these initiatives aim to foster self-employment and enhance economic activity within the province. By facilitating access to capital, the government seeks to empower the youth and other marginalized groups to contribute meaningfully to Punjab's economy. Furthermore, plans are underway to designate specific zones in major cities for small and medium industries, creating conducive environments for business growth citeturn0search0.

This comprehensive approach underscores the Punjab government's commitment to inclusive economic development, positioning entrepreneurship as a catalyst for job creation and sustainable growth.

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