Skill development and entrepreneurship promotion are critical for the growth of Micro, Small and Medium Enterprises (MSMEs). To strengthen training infrastructure and improve the quality of entrepreneurship training in India, the Government launched the Assistance to Training Institutions (ATI Scheme) under the Ministry of Micro, Small and Medium Enterprises.
This scheme supports institutions that provide entrepreneurship and skill development training to MSMEs, startups, and aspiring entrepreneurs.
If you are an MSME owner, training provider, or industry association, this guide will help you understand how ATI works and how it can benefit your business ecosystem.
What is the Assistance to Training Institutions – ATI Scheme?
The ATI Scheme is a central sector initiative aimed at creating a robust ecosystem for skill development. By providing financial assistance to national and state-level training institutions, the government ensures that MSMEs have access to modern facilities and updated training modules aligned with the National Skill Qualification Framework (NSQF).
Primary Objectives:
- Infrastructure Growth: Upgrading physical infrastructure at training centers to meet modern industry standards.
- Skill Development: Imparting vocational and entrepreneurship training to youth and existing MSME owners.
- Capacity Building: Enhancing the skills of trainers and staff at District Industries Centres (DICs) and other government bodies.
- Self-Employment: Encouraging first-generation entrepreneurs to launch their own ventures.
Key Benefits for MSMEs and Entrepreneurs
While the scheme primarily funds training institutions, the ultimate beneficiaries are the MSMEs. Here is how the ATI scheme directly impacts you:
1. Access to Best-in-Class Training
Through this scheme, institutions like ni-msme, NIESBUD, and IIE receive grants to update their labs, equipment, and libraries. This means MSME employees and budding entrepreneurs get to learn on cutting-edge technology and modern machinery.
2. Industry-Relevant Skill Sets
The training modules are frequently updated based on industry feedback. Whether it is digital marketing, advanced manufacturing, or supply chain management, the curriculum is designed to solve real-world business challenges.
3. Subsidized Training Costs
The government provides financial support for the training programs themselves. This lowers the barrier for MSMEs to upskill their staff or for individuals to undergo entrepreneurship development programs without a heavy financial burden.
4. Special Focus on Rural and Backward Areas
The scheme offers higher financial assistance (up to 90% of project cost) for institutions in the North-Eastern Region, Andaman & Nicobar, and Lakshadweep, ensuring that MSMEs in remote areas are not left behind.
Eligibility and Financial Assistance under ATI Scheme
The financial grants under the ATI scheme are categorized based on the type of institution and the nature of the project.
| Feature | Details |
| Eligible Institutions | National-level MSME institutions, State-level EDIs, NGOs, and other development agencies. |
| Infrastructure Grant | Maximum of ₹300 Lakhs for state-level EDIs to build/strengthen infrastructure. |
| Matching Basis (General) | Up to 50% of the project cost (capped at ₹150 Lakhs). |
| Matching Basis (NER/Islands) | Up to 90% of the project cost (capped at ₹270 Lakhs). |
| Training Support | Financial assistance for trainees at approximately ₹50–₹60 per hour. |
How to Apply for the ATI Scheme
If you are an MSME owner looking for training or an institution seeking infrastructure support, follow these steps:
- For Training Seekers: Visit the official MSME ATI Portal or contact the nearest National Institute for Entrepreneurship and Small Business Development (NIESBUD) or National Institute for Micro, Small and Medium Enterprises (ni-msme).
- For Training Institutions: Organizations wishing to apply for infrastructure grants must submit a detailed proposal to the Director/Deputy Secretary (EDI), Ministry of MSME, Udyog Bhawan, New Delhi.
- Documentation: Keep your registration certificates (Udyam Registration), audited financial statements, and project reports ready for submission.
MSMEBytes Thoughts
The Assistance to Training Institutions (ATI) Scheme is more than just a grant; it is an investment in the human capital of India. For MSMEs, this translates into a more competent workforce, smarter business strategies, and higher competitiveness in the global market.
Pro-Tip: If you are an aspiring entrepreneur, look for “Entrepreneurship Skill Development Programmes (ESDP)” hosted by ATI-funded institutions to get certified training that is recognized nationwide.
FAQ – ATI Scheme
What is the Assistance to Training Institutions (ATI) Scheme?
The ATI Scheme is a government initiative by the Ministry of MSME that provides financial grants to training institutions. Its goal is to improve infrastructure and fund skill development programs so that entrepreneurs and MSMEs can access high-quality technical and business training.
How can an MSME benefit from the ATI Scheme?
MSMEs benefit indirectly but significantly. The scheme ensures that the centers where you or your employees go for training have the latest machinery, modern labs, and updated courses. It often leads to subsidized or free entrepreneurship and skill development programs (ESDP) for your workforce.
Who is eligible for assistance under the ATI Scheme?
Financial aid for infrastructure is mainly available to:
- National-level MSME institutions (like NIESBUD or ni-msme).
- State-level Entrepreneurship Development Institutes (EDIs) owned by the government.
- Training centers under the Ministry of MSME.
How much financial help does the government provide?
For state-level institutions, the government provides up to ₹300 Lakhs for infrastructure. Usually, it covers 50% of the project cost, but for the North-Eastern region or island territories like Andaman & Nicobar, the support goes up to 90% (capped at ₹270 Lakhs).
Where can I apply for training under the ATI Scheme?
Individuals and MSME owners can register for courses online through the ATI Portal or by visiting local offices of ni-msme, NIESBUD, or the Indian Institute of Entrepreneurship (IIE).