UN MSME Day 2025: Digital, Green & Inclusive Growth
On July 3, 2025, New Delhi hosted the United Nations World MSME Day, bringing together over 300 global leaders to champion micro, small, and medium-sized enterprises (MSMEs). Under the theme “Empowering MSMEs for a Sustainable and Digital Future,” the summit explored the intersection of digitalisation, green innovation, women-led enterprises, and global trade, highlighting India’s leadership and emphasizing tech-driven, inclusive, and sustainable pathways for MSMEs worldwide.
The significance of MSMEs cannot be overstated. These enterprises are the backbone of many economies, accounting for up to 70% of jobs and 40% of GDP in many countries. However, they often face unique challenges, including limited access to funding, technology, and markets. To address these obstacles, the United Nations has designated July 27th as World MSME Day, a global celebration of the sector’s importance and a call to action to support its growth.
The 2025 edition of the summit was a testament to India’s commitment to empowering MSMEs. The country has long been a champion of MSMEs, recognizing their potential to drive economic growth, create jobs, and promote entrepreneurship. In recent years, India has implemented a range of initiatives to support MSMEs, including the Prime Minister’s Employment Generation Programme, the Credit Guarantee Scheme, and the MSME Development Act.
The 2025 summit built on this momentum, bringing together leaders from government, industry, and academia to share best practices, showcase innovative solutions, and identify new opportunities for MSMEs. The event featured keynote addresses from prominent speakers, including the Indian Minister of Micro, Small and Medium Enterprises, the Secretary-General of the United Nations, and the CEO of a leading global technology company.
One of the key themes of the summit was digitalisation. As the world becomes increasingly digital, MSMEs must adapt to stay competitive. This includes adopting new technologies, such as artificial intelligence and the Internet of Things, and leveraging digital platforms to reach new customers and markets. The summit highlighted the importance of digital literacy, with many speakers emphasizing the need for MSMEs to develop the skills and knowledge required to succeed in a digital economy.
Green innovation was another key theme of the summit. As the world grapples with the challenges of climate change, MSMEs have a critical role to play in promoting sustainable development. The summit showcased innovative solutions from around the world, including sustainable manufacturing practices, renewable energy technologies, and eco-friendly products. Speakers emphasized the need for MSMEs to adopt environmentally friendly practices, not only to reduce their carbon footprint but also to tap into the growing demand for sustainable products and services.
Women-led enterprises were also a key focus of the summit. MSMEs are often characterized by their lack of diversity, with women disproportionately represented. The summit highlighted the importance of empowering women entrepreneurs, with many speakers emphasizing the need for targeted support and resources to help women start and grow their own businesses. The event showcased innovative initiatives from around the world, including business incubators, accelerators, and mentorship programs designed specifically for women entrepreneurs.
Finally, the summit addressed the theme of global trade. MSMEs are increasingly looking to export their products and services, but they often face challenges in accessing international markets. The summit highlighted the importance of trade agreements, such as the Regional Comprehensive Economic Partnership (RCEP), and showcased innovative solutions from around the world, including e-commerce platforms and digital trade facilitation tools.
In conclusion, the 2025 UN World MSME Day was a landmark event that brought together global leaders to champion the growth and development of MSMEs. The summit highlighted the importance of digitalisation, green innovation, women-led enterprises, and global trade, showcasing India’s leadership and emphasizing tech-driven, inclusive, and sustainable pathways for MSMEs worldwide. As the world continues to evolve, MSMEs will play a critical role in driving economic growth, creating jobs, and promoting entrepreneurship. The 2025 summit was a powerful reminder of the importance of supporting these enterprises and empowering them to reach their full potential.
