MUMBAI (India CSR): UGRO Capital Limited, a leading DataTech NBFC focused on MSME lending, today released the third edition of its Social Impact Report, demonstrating how targeted credit drives measurable economic, social and environmental outcomes for India’s most dynamic yet underserved businesses. Produced in partnership with Dun & Bradstreet India, the report reflects UGRO’s expanding reach, serving over 135,000 MSMEs through 200+ branches nationwide and underscores its commitment to a sustainable, inclusive MSME ecosystem.
Inclusive Lending Growth
Over the past three years, UGRO Capital has grown its customer base from just over 23,000 in March 2022 to more than 135,000 by January 2025, boosting its Assets Under Management nearly four-fold from Rs 2,932 Crore to Rs 11,067 Crore while deepening financial inclusion across India’s heartlands. Notably, 78% of these borrowers are first-generation entrepreneurs tapping formal credit for the first time, and women-led enterprises have surged to 74% of total portfolio. 9% of UGRO’s portfolio is one woman owners. Beyond metros, AUM in Tier 3+ geographies climbed from ₹1,144 Crore to ₹2,596 Crore, reflecting a strong focus on rural and small-town growth. In line with its ESG framework, UGRO channelled ₹642 Crore to 3,369 green-sector MSMEs spanning renewable energy, WASH, and sustainable manufacturing and 42% of borrowers invested in energy and waste-efficiency initiatives.
Purpose Through Data
Talking about the report, Shachindra Nath, Founder and Managing Director of UGRO Capital, said, “This report is more than just numbers, it reflects our purpose. MSMEs are the backbone of India’s economy, yet 75% rely on informal credit. This report validates our mission to democratize access to finance through data-led innovation. It also brings to life our campaign belief – MSME Accha Hai and now invites every Indian to show their support through #BharosaMSMEpar. Our emotion became evidence; now it becomes action.”
Empowering Women Entrepreneurs
Irem Sayeed, Chief Credit Officer, UGRO Capital, added, “Our ESG-led lending framework ensures growth that is both inclusive and resilient. From clean-energy enterprises to women-led ventures, every loan becomes a lever for change. The 42% rise in women’s employment within our borrower network shows the multiplier effect of thoughtful financing.”
Global Goals Alignment
The report reaffirms UGRO’s alignment with 11 UN Sustainable Development Goals, including decent work, gender equality, clean energy, innovation, and climate action. Its embedded ESG screening protocol ensures responsible disbursals without compromising growth momentum. The research—combining telephonic and in-person interviews across 200+ branches in metro and Tier 2/3 centers was enriched by platform analytics and public financial disclosures to ensure robustness and representativeness.
Campaign for Change
The launch of this Impact Report also aligns with UGRO Capital’s #BharosaMSMEpar campaign, a nationwide call for every Indian, from consumers to policymakers, to pledge support for MSMEs. Because when Indians back these businesses with their trust, they power a billion dreams.
(India CSR)
