The CGMSE was first launched in the year 2000 as a monetary support scheme for micro and small enterprises. It offers collateral-free credit for both new and existing business units that satisfy its eligibility criteria. The scheme provides working capital loans up to ₹ 10 lakhs without any collateral. However, for all credit facilities above ₹ 10 lakhs and up to ₹ 1 crore only primary security or mortgage of land and building associated with the building is obtained and such eligible accounts are covered under Credit Guarantee Fund Trust for Micro and Small Enterprises (CGTMSE). Asset created through the credit facility which are associated with the business unit are also considered as security when the loan amount exceeds ₹ 10 lakhs.

The business loans under this scheme are financed by various public and private sector banks covered under the scheme