ICS-CBFTE
International Cooperation Scheme- Capacity Building of First Time MSE Exporters
6.6/10The scheme “International Cooperation Scheme” was launched by the MSME, Govt. of India with the aim to capacity build MSMEs for entering export market by providing reimbursement of various costs incurred by first time MSE exporters on export shipments.
States / UT: All India
Ministry / nodal: Ministry Of Micro, Small and Medium Enterprises
Scheme for: Infra
Scheme profile
DBT (direct benefit transfer): No
Categories: Business & Entrepreneurship
Sub-categories: Exhibitions/Trade fairs/Buyer-seller meet, market development
Target beneficiaries: Industries, Business Entity
Tags: International, Cooperation, Capacity Building, MSE, Exporter, Financial Assistance
Details
The sub-scheme "Capacity Building of First Time MSE Exporters" under the “International Cooperation Scheme” was launched by the Ministry of Micro, Small and Medium Enterprises, Government of India to capacity build MSMEs for entering the export market by facilitating their participation in international exhibitions/fairs/conferences/seminars/buyer-seller meets abroad as well as providing them with actionable market-intelligence and reimbursement of various costs involved in export of goods and services. The Scheme provides opportunities for MSMEs to continuously update themselves to meet the challenges emerging out of changes in technology, changes in demand, the emergence of new markets, etc. Thus, in totality, all components of the scheme aimed at various aspects required to advance MSMEs' position as emerging export players.
The key interventions proposed under the scheme are highlighted below:-
Reimbursement of costs incurred by first-time MSE exporters on export shipments –
- Registration-cum-Membership Certificate (RCMC) paid by the first-time exporters for registration with EPCs.
- Export insurance premiums paid by MSEs.
- Fee paid on Testing and Quality Certification acquired by MSEs to export products. This will encourage MSEs to produce and offer products and services of international standards for the export markets.
Benefits
- Scale of Assistance and Eligible Items of Expenditure: Financial assistance towards costs incurred by first-time MSE Exporters on export shipments:- Registration-cum-Membership Certificate (RCMC) charges/fee paid by the first-time exporter to relate EPCs 75% of the cost paid subject to a maximum of ₹20 000/- or actual whichever is lower subject to quarterly reporting by EPCs as per prescribed format. Export Insurance Premium paid to Export Credit Guarantee Corporation Ltd. (ECGC) under the ECGC& 39;s Small Exporter& 39;s PolicyMaximum financial assistance in a financial year of ₹10 000/- or actual whichever is lower subject to quarterly reporting by ECGC Ltd. as per prescribed formatFee paid on Testing & Quality Certification acquired by MSEs to Export Products (Note: Ministry of MSME shall share the list of beneficiaries who have availed the financial assistance under this sub-component with MAI Division
- Department of Commerce on quarterly basis)75% of the testing and quality certification with a ceiling of ₹1.00 Lakh or actual whichever is lower subject to the following conditions: 1. Financial assistance is allowed for a maximum of 3 certificates per financial year with a ceiling of ₹1.00 Lakh per MSE unit. 2. Certificate for which financial assistance is requested should be attained within the same financial year
Scale of Assistance and Eligible Items of Expenditure:
Financial assistance towards costs incurred by first-time MSE Exporters on export shipments:-
Registration-cum-Membership Certificate (RCMC) charges/fee paid by the first-time exporter to relate EPCs 75% of the cost paid subject to a maximum of ₹20,000/- or actual, whichever is lower subject to quarterly reporting by EPCs as per prescribed format. Export Insurance Premium paid to Export Credit Guarantee Corporation Ltd. (ECGC) under the ECGC's Small Exporter's PolicyMaximum financial assistance in a financial year of ₹10,000/- or actual, whichever is lower subject to quarterly reporting by ECGC Ltd. as per prescribed formatFee paid on Testing & Quality Certification acquired by MSEs to Export Products (Note: Ministry of MSME shall share the list of beneficiaries who have availed the financial assistance under this sub-component, with MAI Division, Department of Commerce, on quarterly basis)75% of the testing and quality certification with a ceiling of ₹1.00 Lakh or actual, whichever is lower, subject to the following conditions: 1. Financial assistance is allowed for a maximum of 3 certificates per financial year with a ceiling of ₹1.00 Lakh per MSE unit. 2. Certificate, for which financial assistance is requested, should be attained within the same financial year.
Eligibility
- The Micro and Small Enterprises with valid Udyam Registration are eligible to apply under the scheme.
- To claim the benefits under the scheme, the applicant's Importer Exporter Code (IEC) must not be older than 3 years on the date of export shipment.
How useful is this scheme?
A practical look at this scheme for citizens
AI-generated insights showing how useful, accessible, and practical this scheme may be — combining deterministic scoring rules with a public-policy LLM analyst.
- Accessibility5.0
- Financial impact9.0
- Rural utility5.0
- Awareness7.5
- Simplicity7.0
- Inclusivity6.0
What problem does this scheme solve?
The scheme aims to support first-time MSE exporters by providing financial assistance for various export-related costs, enhancing their capacity to enter international markets.
Key challenges addressed
- Financial burden of export-related costs
- Lack of market intelligence for first-time exporters
Most beneficial for
- Micro and Small Enterprises (MSEs)
- First-time exporters
Likely challenges
- Complex application process
- Limited awareness among potential beneficiaries
Practical insights for citizens
While the scheme provides necessary support, the application process may deter some potential beneficiaries due to its complexity.
Rural challenges
- Limited internet access
- Lack of awareness about the scheme
Digital challenges
- High digital dependency for application
- Need for online registration and submission
Implementation bottlenecks
- Complexity in reimbursement claims
- Coordination between multiple agencies
Awareness challenges
- Low awareness among rural MSEs
- Need for outreach programs
Application analysis
- Application mode
- Online
- Documents burden
- Moderate, requires specific financial documents
- Verification complexity
- Moderate, involves multiple stakeholders
- Office dependency
- Low, primarily online
- DBT dependency
- None
- CSC support
- Limited
- Estimated citizen effort
- Moderate, requires online navigation and document preparation
Estimated beneficiary reach
Benefit analysis
- Benefit type
- Composite
- Benefit frequency
- As per incurred costs
- Benefit practicality
- Practical for eligible MSEs, but may require upfront costs
- Financial meaningfulness
- Moderately meaningful, depending on the costs incurred
- Long-term impact
- Potentially significant if MSEs successfully enter export markets
Plain-language guidance
This scheme helps small businesses that are new to exporting by reimbursing some of their costs. It is designed to make it easier for them to participate in international markets.
- Who should apply
- Micro and Small Enterprises with valid Udyam Registration and a recent Importer Exporter Code.
- Who may struggle
- First-time applicants, especially those with limited digital skills or awareness of the scheme.
- Best application route
- Apply online through the official MSME portal.
This intelligence section is generated by an AI policy analyst combined with rule-based scoring. Scores and narrative are estimates derived from the publicly available scheme information shown on this page; actual experience may vary by state, district, and department. Always confirm details on the official portal before you apply.
Application Process
Online
> Application Process:
Step 1: The applicant organization will submit an online application for financial assistance, along with the relevant documents and the budget estimate of the expenditure on the proposed event in a proforma providing full details of expenditure.
Step 2: To apply under the scheme, the applicant organization needs to visit the official website.
Step 3: On the home page, select “Market Development Assistance” to log in who have already registered. If the applicant Organization is a new user, click on “New User Register Here” to register under the scheme by selecting the type of Organization.
Step 4: After successful registration, the applicant organization can log in with valid credentials. After login, the user will be redirected to their Dashboard where multiple actions have to be done.
Note:
- The admissible financial assistance would be worked out in accordance with the criteria/scale.
Process of seeking financial assistance under the Scheme:
- RCMC certificate: Ministry of MSME to sign MoU with EPCs. These EPCs will then be eligible to apply for financial assistance under the IC scheme. They will be required to apply for financial assistance claims on behalf of MSEs along with all prescribed documents on the IC Scheme portal. 1. Export Insurance Premium: Export Credit Guarantee Corporation (ECGC) Ltd. provides insurance to Exporters. The Ministry of MSME will sign a MoU with ECGC Ltd. and claims that for the first-time MSE exporters will be released from the IC Scheme to ECGC upon receipt of the application on the updated portal of the IC Scheme. 1. Testing and Quality Certification: The Ministry of MSME to sign an MoU with National Small Industries Corporation Ltd. Financial assistance on certifications defined under the scheme will be released to NSIC Ltd. for further dissemination of funds to eligible MSEs.
Clarifications
Additional points from the scheme information published on myScheme (not legal advice).
- What is the “International Cooperation Scheme”?
The scheme aims to capacity build MSMEs for entering export market by facilitating their participation in international exhibitions/fairs/conferences/seminar/buyer-seller meets abroad as well as providing them with actionable market-intelligence and reimbursement of various costs involved in export of goods and services. The Scheme provides opportunities to MSMEs to continuously update themselves to meet the challenges emerging out of changes in technology, changes in demand, emergence of new markets, etc. Thus, in totality, all components of the scheme aim at various aspects required to advance MSMEs position as emerging export player.
- Which department has launched this scheme?
Ministry of Micro, Small and Medium Enterprises has launched this scheme.
- What are the benefits provided under the scheme?
Under the scheme, financial assistance will be provided for the following: * Registration-cum-Membership Certificate (RCMC) paid by the first-time exporters for registration with EPCs. * Export insurance premium paid by MSEs. * Fee paid on Testing & Quality Certification acquired by MSEs to export products.
- Who can apply under this scheme?
The Micro and Small Enterprises with valid Udyam Registration are eligible to apply under the scheme.
- What is the criterion for Importer Exporter Code for claiming benefits under the scheme?
To claim the benefits under the scheme, the applicant's Importer Exporter Code (IEC) must not be older than 3 years on the date of export shipment.
- What is the quantum of assistance for Registration cum Membership certification (RCME)?
75% of the cost paid subject to a maximum of ₹20,000/- or actual, whichever is lower subject to quarterly reporting by EPCs as per the prescribed format.
- What is the quantum of assistance for Export Insurance Premium?
Maximum financial assistance in a financial year of ₹10,000/- or actual, whichever is lower subject to quarterly reporting by ECGC Ltd. as per prescribed format.
- How to apply under this scheme?
The applicant Organisation will submit an online application for financial assistance, along with the relevant documents in the proforma (prescribed on the IC Scheme portal: https://ic.msme.gov.in) giving full details of expenditure.
- How will the grant be released under the scheme?
Grants under the Scheme will be released on a reimbursement basis on submission of the reimbursement claim in the proforma (uploaded on the IC Scheme Portal). The claim must be accompanied with the documents, as prescribed by the Ministry.
Official links
References
- Guidelines
- https://ic.msme.gov.in/IC_APP/WriteReadData/GuideLine/FinalCBFTEComponentofICScheme.pdf
- Official Website
- https://ic.msme.gov.in/IC_APP/IC_Welcome.aspx
- MSME Website
- https://msme.gov.in/international-cooperation
Apply
Apply nowOpens the official application or programme portal in a new tab. If in doubt, confirm details on the ministry site.
Frequently asked questions
- What is the purpose of International Cooperation Scheme- Capacity Building of First Time MSE Exporters?
- International Cooperation Scheme- Capacity Building of First Time MSE Exporters is a government welfare initiative designed to support Infra, Industries, Business Entity through benefits related to Business & Entrepreneurship, financial assistance, subsidies, social welfare, healthcare, education, or livelihood support.
- Who can apply for International Cooperation Scheme- Capacity Building of First Time MSE Exporters?
- Eligibility for International Cooperation Scheme- Capacity Building of First Time MSE Exporters may depend on factors such as income category, age, gender, occupation, state of residence, social category, and government-defined beneficiary criteria.
- What benefits are offered under International Cooperation Scheme- Capacity Building of First Time MSE Exporters?
- Benefits under International Cooperation Scheme- Capacity Building of First Time MSE Exporters may include financial assistance, subsidies, scholarships, insurance support, healthcare benefits, pension support, training assistance, or welfare services depending on the scheme guidelines.
- Which department manages International Cooperation Scheme- Capacity Building of First Time MSE Exporters?
- International Cooperation Scheme- Capacity Building of First Time MSE Exporters is managed by Ministry Of Micro, Small and Medium Enterprises and may be implemented through district offices, online portals, CSC centres, banks, or authorised government agencies.
- Can users apply online for International Cooperation Scheme- Capacity Building of First Time MSE Exporters?
- Yes, eligible applicants may be able to apply online for International Cooperation Scheme- Capacity Building of First Time MSE Exporters through official government portals, authorised service centres, or digital application systems depending on the implementation process.
- Is Aadhaar mandatory for International Cooperation Scheme- Capacity Building of First Time MSE Exporters?
- Many government schemes may require Aadhaar verification, identity proof, or linked bank account details for beneficiary validation and direct benefit transfer processing.
- Where can users apply for International Cooperation Scheme- Capacity Building of First Time MSE Exporters?
- Applications for International Cooperation Scheme- Capacity Building of First Time MSE Exporters may be submitted through government departments, official scheme portals, CSC centres, district offices, welfare departments, or authorised service centres.
- What documents may be required for International Cooperation Scheme- Capacity Building of First Time MSE Exporters?
- Applicants may need Aadhaar card, income certificate, residence proof, bank account details, caste certificate, photographs, educational records, or occupation-related documents depending on scheme eligibility requirements.
- Is International Cooperation Scheme- Capacity Building of First Time MSE Exporters a central government scheme?
- Yes, International Cooperation Scheme- Capacity Building of First Time MSE Exporters is a central government welfare initiative that may be implemented across multiple states through authorised departments and agencies.
- Does International Cooperation Scheme- Capacity Building of First Time MSE Exporters provide business loan or startup assistance?
- International Cooperation Scheme- Capacity Building of First Time MSE Exporters may support entrepreneurs, startups, self-employed individuals, MSMEs, or small businesses through financial assistance, subsidies, credit support, or training initiatives.
- Is collateral required under International Cooperation Scheme- Capacity Building of First Time MSE Exporters?
- Collateral requirements may vary depending on the loan amount, implementing agency, financial institution, and government subsidy structure.
- Can CSC centres help users apply for International Cooperation Scheme- Capacity Building of First Time MSE Exporters?
- Many government schemes may be accessible through nearby CSC centres, authorised digital service centres, or welfare facilitation offices.
- How can users check the latest updates for International Cooperation Scheme- Capacity Building of First Time MSE Exporters?
- Users should verify official notifications, department announcements, application deadlines, and eligibility updates through authorised government portals or implementing agencies.
- Can beneficiaries track application status for International Cooperation Scheme- Capacity Building of First Time MSE Exporters?
- Certain schemes may provide online application tracking, beneficiary verification systems, or status-check facilities through official portals.
- Where can users get help for International Cooperation Scheme- Capacity Building of First Time MSE Exporters in All India?
- Users in All India may seek assistance through CSC centres, district welfare offices, government departments, agriculture offices, social welfare departments, or authorised facilitation centres.
- Which nearby public services may help with International Cooperation Scheme- Capacity Building of First Time MSE Exporters applications?
- Depending on the scheme, users may require support from Aadhaar centres, CSC centres, banks, hospitals, post offices, or government welfare offices for document verification and application assistance.