The CM Punjab Aasaan Karobaar Program 2026 is a major interest-free loan scheme launched by Maryam Nawaz Sharif to strengthen small businesses, startups, and SMEs across Punjab. This flagship initiative provides zero markup business loans of up to PKR 30 million, making it one of the most significant SME financing programs in Pakistan for 2026.
Designed to promote entrepreneurship, financial inclusion, and industrial growth, the program offers fully subsidized loans through the Bank of Punjab (BOP) and the official Punjab government digital portal.
This detailed guide explains eligibility criteria, loan tiers, documents required, and how to apply online for the CM Punjab Aasaan Karobaar Program 2026.
What is CM Punjab Aasaan Karobaar Program 2026?
The CM Punjab Aasaan Karobaar Program 2026 is a government-backed SME development scheme that provides interest-free financing to micro, small, and medium enterprises (MSMEs) in Punjab.
The main objectives of the program include:
- Supporting small business growth in Punjab
- Providing startup funding opportunities
- Encouraging youth and women entrepreneurship
- Strengthening documented businesses
- Boosting economic activity and employment generation
The program operates under two primary categories:
- CM Punjab Asaan Karobaar Card
- CM Punjab Asaan Karobaar Finance
Both tracks offer 0 percent interest loans, with repayment plans tailored to different business sizes.
CM Punjab Asaan Karobaar Card – Interest-Free Loan Up to PKR 1 Million
The Asaan Karobaar Card is designed for micro businesses, shopkeepers, and small traders who need working capital support.
Key Features
- Loan Amount: Up to PKR 1 Million
- Interest Rate: 0 percent (fully subsidized by the Punjab Government)
- Tenure: 3 years
- First 12 months as revolving credit
- Remaining 24 months in monthly installments
- Grace Period: 3 months
- Usage:
- Vendor and supplier payments
- Utility bills
- Up to 25 percent cash withdrawal for business expenses
This option is ideal for grocery stores, retail shops, home-based businesses, and small traders seeking cash flow stability.
CM Punjab Asaan Karobaar Finance – SME and Startup Loan Up to PKR 30 Million
The Asaan Karobaar Finance track is designed for business expansion, modernization (BMR), and new startups.
Tier 1 – SME Financing
- Loan Amount: PKR 1 Million to 5 Million
- Security: Personal guarantee
- Repayment Period: Up to 5 years
- Grace Period: 3 to 6 months
Tier 2 – Large SME and Industrial Projects
- Loan Amount: PKR 6 Million to 30 Million
- Security: Collateral required
- Repayment Period: Up to 5 years
- Grace Period: 3 to 6 months
This financing structure supports manufacturing units, service sector companies, industrial projects, technology startups, and export-oriented businesses in Punjab.
It is considered one of the largest interest-free SME loan schemes introduced in Pakistan for 2026.
Eligibility Criteria for CM Punjab Aasaan Karobaar Program 2026
To apply for this Punjab government business loan scheme, applicants must meet the following requirements:
- Must be a resident of Punjab
- Valid Computerized National Identity Card (CNIC)
- Age between 21 and 57 years (varies by tier)
- Clean credit history with no loan defaults
- Active FBR tax filer status (mandatory for Finance track)
These conditions ensure transparency and responsible lending.
Required Documents for Online Application
Before applying, applicants should prepare clear scanned copies of the following documents:
Standard Documents
- CNIC (front and back)
- Recent passport-size photograph
- NTN certificate or proof of active tax filer status
- Business proof (electricity bill, rent agreement, SECP registration, or relevant authority document)
- Last six months bank statement
- Mobile number registered on applicant’s CNIC
Additional Documents for Finance Track
- Business plan or feasibility report (especially for startups)
- Two non-relative references with CNIC copies and contact details
- Collateral documents for Tier 2 loans (registry, Fard, transfer letter)
- Personal guarantee or net worth statement
Providing complete documentation increases the chances of loan approval.
How to Apply Online for CM Punjab Aasaan Karobaar Program 2026
The application process is fully digital and transparent.
Applicants can apply through:
- Official portal: akf.punjab.gov.pk
- Bank of Punjab official website
Step-by-Step Application Process
- Visit the official portal
- Register using CNIC and mobile number (OTP verification required)
- Fill in personal and business details
- Upload required documents
- Pay the non-refundable processing fee online
- Submit the application
Processing Fee
- PKR 500 for Asaan Karobaar Card
- PKR 5,000 to 10,000 for Asaan Karobaar Finance
For assistance, applicants can contact the Punjab Government helpline at 1786.
Key Benefits of CM Punjab Aasaan Karobaar Program 2026
- 100 percent interest-free business loans
- Digital and transparent application system
- Financial support for startups and SMEs
- Encouragement of youth entrepreneurship
- Strengthening of Punjab’s industrial and retail sectors
This program plays a crucial role in SME development, economic stability, and job creation across Punjab.
Conclusion
The CM Punjab Aasaan Karobaar Program 2026 is a comprehensive interest-free loan scheme aimed at empowering entrepreneurs, shopkeepers, and small businesses in Punjab. By offering zero markup financing of up to PKR 30 million, the government is removing major financial barriers for business growth.
For small business owners, startup founders, and SMEs looking for expansion capital, this initiative presents a significant opportunity. Preparing complete documents and applying early can improve approval chances under this highly impactful Punjab government business support program.
FAQs
1. What is the CM Punjab Aasaan Karobaar Program 2026?
An interest-free loan scheme for small businesses and SMEs in Punjab launched by Maryam Nawaz Sharif.
2. Who is eligible to apply for this loan scheme?
Punjab residents aged 21–57 with a valid CNIC, clean credit history, and active FBR filer status (for Finance track).
3. What is the maximum loan amount available?
Up to PKR 1 million under the Card and up to PKR 30 million under the Finance scheme.
4. How can I apply for the CM Punjab Aasaan Karobaar Program 2026?
Apply online via akf.punjab.gov.pk or through the Bank of Punjab website.
5. Is the loan really interest-free?
Yes, the loan is fully subsidized and offered at 0 percent markup by the Punjab Government.