How to Apply for CM Punjab Asaan Karobar Program 2025

Punjab’s Chief Minister Maryam Nawaz Sharif’s flagship Asaan Karobar Finance Program 2025 is making waves across the province, having shown strong results within just three months of its launch. In a high-level meeting held on May 17, 2025, the CM highlighted the initiative’s rapid success in empowering entrepreneurs and supporting small businesses.

The program, launched in January 2025, has already disbursed over Rs. 61 billion in interest-free loans to more than 107,000 individuals, helping establish 57,913 new businesses. Among the beneficiaries, over 6,700 women entrepreneurs received financial support, contributing to a total of 170,000 empowered citizens across Punjab. The second phase of the scheme is on the horizon with a proposed Rs. 100 billion allocation targeting 24,000 SMEs in the 2025–26 fiscal year.

The program’s core objective is to reduce unemployment and promote inclusive entrepreneurship. It supports Punjab-based startups and SMEs, especially in sectors like sports goods, garments, IT, and textiles. The scheme also prioritizes women, transgender persons, and individuals with disabilities.

The interest-free loans range between Rs. 1 million to Rs. 30 million, with no markup and easy repayment terms. Applicants enjoy a grace period and minimal documentation requirements via the digital portal akf.punjab.gov.pk.

Another key feature is the Asaan Karobar Card, offering interest-free digital credit up to Rs. 1 million for small vendors, with 25% available as cash and usage allowed for utilities and government payments.

Eligibility requires Punjab residency, CNIC, active tax status, and age between 21 to 57 years. Some sectors, such as restaurants, may be excluded.

For support, applicants can call helpline 1786 or visit the official portals:

• akf.punjab.gov.pk for the finance scheme
• akc.punjab.gov.pk for the Karobar Card

As Phase II approaches, the Punjab Government is set to expand support even further, promoting self-reliance and resilience in the province’s business community.