SME Funding Checklist 2025: Essential Guide for Indian SMEs

Introduction

First, follow this SME funding checklist to compile all required documents and data. Next, approach banks, fintech platforms, and venture-debt lenders with confidence. Finally, track each application and maintain transparency to fast-track approvals.

SME Funding Checklist: Corporate & KYC Requirements

1. Udyam Registration Certificate
   • Register on the Udyam portal; it replaced Udyog Aadhaar in 2020 and now hosts over 4.77 crore MSMEs .
2. Identity Proof of Promoters (Aadhaar, PAN, Passport)
   • Aadhaar is mandatory; PAN & GSTIN required for companies .
3. Address Proof (Utility Bills, Rent Agreements)
   • Banks must share a docs checklist at application time .
4. Passport-Size Photographs & Board Resolutions
   • Board minutes should authorize borrowings and collateral .

SME Funding Checklist: Financial Statements & Bank Records

1. Bank Statements (6–12 months)
   • Indicative checklist includes bank statements for appraisals .
2. Audited Financial Statements (2–3 years)
3. Income Tax Returns (2–3 years)
4. Cash-Flow Statements & Projections
   • Show 1–3 year projections tied to your funding ask .
5. CIBIL/CRIF Credit Report (Score ≥650)
   • Platforms like KredX require a 650+ score .

SME Funding Checklist: Compliance & Regulatory Documents

1. PAN & GST Registration Certificates
2. GST Returns (Last 6 months)
3. Business Licenses (Trade/Industry-Specific)
4. Incorporation Docs (MoA/AoA or Partnership Deed)
5. Board Minutes Approving Funding
   • NBFCs require detailed Diligence Packs .

SME Funding Checklist: Business Plan & Pitch Deck

1. Executive Summary & Funding Ask
2. Problem–Solution Narrative
3. Market Analysis & Competitive Landscape
4. Traction Metrics (Revenue, CAC, Retention)
5. Financial Model & Use-of-Funds Memo
6. Management Team Bios & Governance
   • A sharp deck boosts lender confidence .

SME Funding Checklist: Channel-Specific Documentation

Traditional Bank/NBFC Loans

• Loan Application Form
• Collateral Papers (Title Deeds, Valuation)
• Banker’s Reference Letter

Invoice Discounting

• Aging Receivables & Purchase Orders
• Platform KYC & Turnover Proof (₹25 L+)
• Audited Books & 12-month Bank Statements .

Supply Chain Finance (SCF)

• Vendor/Supplier Agreements
• SCF Application & Credit Approval Letters
• Program-Specific Forms .

Venture Debt

• Equity Raise Proof (Term Sheet, Capital Call)
• Use-of-Funds Memo & Lender Application
• Pro-Forma Financial Model
• Pitch Deck & Company Diligence Pack .

Next Steps

1. Organize a Secure Data Room
2. Engage a Financial Advisor
3. Track Application IDs & Follow Up
4. Combine Channels: Use invoice finance for working capital and venture debt for growth.

Ready to fund your growth? Download the SME funding checklist or book a free consultation now to get personalized support and fast-track your financing.

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Harshaditya Kabra
+91-88277-53530
https://www.linkedin.com/in/ca-harshaditya/
https://accorgconsulting.com/