1. What state support is available
The state supports people starting their own business — and the self-employed can use this too. The main tools are a non-repayable state start-up grant, soft microloans and interest-rate subsidies. The programmes run through the business.enbek.kz portal, Employment Centres and local authorities.
It is important to understand that most measures are aimed at launching or developing entrepreneurship. So a grant recipient usually needs to have, or to open, IP status and register as an entrepreneur — self-employment often serves as the starting point.
2. The state start-up grant
The main measure is a non-repayable grant for new business ideas. Its key parameters:
- Amount — up to 400 MCI (in 2026 that is up to 1,730,000 tenge);
- Repayment — the grant is non-repayable;
- Frequency — it can be received once;
- Earmarked use — the funds go toward equipment, materials, rent and other costs of the business project, with subsequent reporting.
3. Who is eligible
Applicants are usually:
- registered unemployed people;
- members of socially vulnerable groups;
- sole proprietors registered less than three years ago.
A self-employed person often falls into these categories — for example, as a beginner or as a member of a vulnerable group. The exact requirements depend on the conditions of each intake, so check them on business.enbek.kz before applying.
4. How to get it: step by step
- Register on the business.enbek.kz portal (by email, phone or digital signature) and check whether you meet the programme conditions.
- Complete the free entrepreneurship training "Bastau Business" and get the certificate.
- Prepare and defend your business project before a commission.
- If approved, sign the agreement, receive the funds and use them strictly as intended.
- Report on the earmarked spending within the set deadlines.
Applications are accepted in intakes throughout the year — the schedule is published on business.enbek.kz and at Employment Centres.
5. Microloans and other measures
Besides the grant, the following are available:
- Soft microloans to start and expand a business — through authorised organisations and funds;
- Interest-rate subsidies on loans for entrepreneurs;
- Training and mentoring programmes for beginners.
The exact set of tools and conditions depends on the region and year. Before applying, check the current information on business.enbek.kz and egov.kz.
This material is based on the Tax Code of the Republic of Kazakhstan (Law No. 214-VIII of 18 July 2025, effective 1 January 2026), Government Resolution No. 994 of 21 November 2025 and other current acts. Current as of June 2026. This is not legal advice — verify decisions against egov.kz, the State Revenue Committee and primary sources.