UN MSME Day 2025: Digital, Green & Inclusive Growth
On July 3, 2025, the city of New Delhi played host to the UN World MSME Day, a momentous occasion that brought together a diverse group of over 300 global leaders to champion the cause of Micro, Small, and Medium-Sized Enterprises (MSMEs). The summit, themed “Empowering MSMEs for a Sustainable and Digital Future,” delved into the pressing issues of digitalization, green innovation, women-led enterprises, and global trade, showcasing India’s leadership and emphasizing the importance of tech-driven, inclusive, and sustainable pathways for MSMEs worldwide.
The event marked a significant milestone in the journey towards recognizing the vital role MSMEs play in driving economic growth, innovation, and job creation. MSMEs are the backbone of many economies, and their contributions are often undervalued. The summit aimed to change that narrative by highlighting the critical importance of MSMEs in achieving the United Nations’ Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs).
Digitalization: The Key to Unlocking MSME Growth
The first day of the summit focused on digitalization, with industry experts and policymakers converging to discuss the potential of digital technologies in transforming MSMEs. The panel discussions and keynotes emphasized the need for MSMEs to adopt digital solutions to stay competitive, improve efficiency, and expand their customer base. The emphasis was on leveraging technologies such as artificial intelligence, blockchain, and the Internet of Things (IoT) to streamline operations, enhance customer experiences, and increase productivity.
India’s Minister for Micro, Small, and Medium Enterprises, Shri Narayan Rane, emphasized the importance of digitalization in MSME growth, stating, “Digitalization is not just a trend; it’s a necessity. MSMEs must adopt digital technologies to stay ahead of the curve and compete with larger enterprises.” He also highlighted the government’s initiatives to promote digitalization among MSMEs, including the Digital MSME program, which provides financial assistance and training to MSMEs for adopting digital technologies.
Green Innovation: The Sustainable Future of MSMEs
The second day of the summit focused on green innovation, with a special emphasis on sustainable business practices and environmentally friendly technologies. The discussions highlighted the need for MSMEs to adopt eco-friendly practices to reduce their carbon footprint and contribute to a sustainable future.
The CEO of ASCENDS, a leading business consulting firm, emphasized the importance of green innovation in MSME growth, stating, “MSMEs have a significant role to play in achieving the SDGs. By adopting green technologies and sustainable practices, MSMEs can not only reduce their environmental impact but also reduce costs, improve brand reputation, and increase customer loyalty.”
Women-Led Enterprises: Empowering the Future
The summit also featured a special session on women-led enterprises, highlighting the critical role women play in driving economic growth and development. The panel discussions emphasized the need for greater support and recognition for women-led enterprises, which are often faced with unique challenges and biases.
The Secretary-General of the United Nations, António Guterres, emphasized the importance of women’s empowerment in achieving the SDGs, stating, “Women’s participation in the economy is critical to achieving the SDGs. We must recognize the valuable contributions women make to the economy and provide them with the support and resources they need to succeed.”
Global Trade: Unlocking Opportunities for MSMEs
The final day of the summit focused on global trade, with discussions highlighting the need for MSMEs to participate in international trade to expand their customer base and increase revenue. The panelists emphasized the importance of government support, trade agreements, and digital platforms in facilitating global trade for MSMEs.
The Director-General of the World Trade Organization, Dr. Ngozi Okonjo-Iweala, emphasized the importance of global trade in promoting economic growth and development, stating, “Global trade is essential for promoting economic growth and development. We must work together to create a more inclusive and sustainable trading system that benefits all countries and communities.”
Conclusion
The UN World MSME Day 2025 was a resounding success, bringing together global leaders to champion the cause of MSMEs. The summit highlighted the critical importance of digitalization, green innovation, women-led enterprises, and global trade in driving MSME growth and development. India’s leadership in hosting the summit showcased its commitment to promoting MSMEs and achieving the SDGs.
As the world moves forward, it is essential for policymakers, business leaders, and individuals to recognize the vital role MSMEs play in driving economic growth, innovation, and job creation. By adopting tech-driven, inclusive, and sustainable pathways, MSMEs can unlock new opportunities, create new jobs, and drive economic growth.
