On July 3, 2025, New Delhi hosted the United Nations World MSME Day. More than 300 entrepreneurs, industry experts, diplomats, and executives gathered to promote micro, small, and medium-sized enterprises (MSMEs). The event focused on finding ways to create a sustainable, digital, and inclusive future for small businesses around the world.
A Global Gathering to Empower Local Enterprises
Organised under the theme “Empowering MSMEs for a Sustainable and Digital Future”, the summit focused on driving meaningful change for the world’s 400+ million MSMEs. Representing over 90% of businesses globally and generating 70% of employment in many economies, MSMEs are increasingly being recognised as crucial to achieving the UN Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs). India, with its massive MSME base of over 63 million units, was an ideal host to highlight success stories, challenges, and the potential of this vital sector.
Themes: Digital, Green, and Inclusive Growth
Important subjects covered at the conference included:
- Digitalisation of MSMEs: UPI, e-commerce platforms, and digital marketing are changing how microbusinesses work, especially in smaller towns and rural areas of India.
- Green Innovation: Participants investigated waste minimisation, climate-friendly small company methods, and sustainable manufacturing.
- MSMEs run by women: Techniques for assisting and growing female entrepreneurs were covered, including easier access to technology, coaching, and funding.
- International Trade Participation: Professionals provided solutions to assist MSMEs in understanding international standards, breaking into export markets, and connecting to global supply chains.
The importance of financial inclusion, business-friendly policies, and public-private collaboration was emphasised by experts.For MSMEs in India and around the world to be empowered, these initiatives are essential.
India’s MSME Sector in Focus
India showed its dedication to sustainable business innovation and digital inclusiveness. Programs like the ONDC, PM Vishwakarma Yojana, and digital skills training were mentioned as examples that other developing nations may adopt.
Union Ministers and industry leaders emphasized India’s goal to make its MSMEs (micro, small, and medium enterprises) important drivers of global growth, not just local job providers.
What This Means for Small Businesses
The summit reinforced that the future of MSMEs lies in tech-enabled, environmentally conscious, and socially inclusive models. With global cooperation and local innovation, small businesses can become resilient engines of economic growth.
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