Any anyone above the age of 18. A minimum of VIII standard pass is required for projects costing more than Rs.10 lakh in the manufacturing sector and more than Rs.5 lakh in the business or service sector. Under the PMEGP, only new projects are examined for approval. Self-Help Groups (including those belonging to the BPL if they have not received benefits under any other Scheme), Institutions established under the Societies Registration Act, 1860; Production Co-operative Societies, and Charitable Trusts are also eligible. Existing units and units that have previously received Government Subsidy under any other plan of the Government of India or the State Government are NOT eligible.