The principal methods for producing copper powder is electrolytic deposition at high current densities and the atomization of molten metal. Copper powder is also formed by cementation or by pressured precipitation from acqueous solutions, but such precipitates are of little commercial interest.
The automobile uses three basic types of spring is coil, leaf and torsion bar. Regardless of the type of spring, all springs work in a similar manner. Springs are placed between the frame and the wheel axles. Leaf springs are of two types: Multi-leaf and Single 2. Leaf. An industry mfg. Auto leaf springs,
Bricks may be made from a no. of different kinds of materials but they must usually possess a certain amount of plasticity. Fly ash is one of them. Fly ash is an industrial waste of thermal power station using pulverized coal. Fly ash generally contains about 5% to 6% unburnt carbon. Its addition in clay,
A toothpick is a small stick of wood, plastic, bamboo, metal, bone or other substance used to remove detritus from the teeth, usually after a meal. A toothpick usually has two sharp ends to insert between teeth. They can also be used for picking up small appetizers or as a cocktail stick.
Broom stick is well known to all. It has been largely used by domestic people, commercial complexes, industrial people etc. It is generally prepared by using coconut leaves or special type of bamboos. There is a good market demand of this product and it’s associated product like handle.
With the vast potential of plastics, artificial synthetic marble is virtually replacing the use of natural marble. The qualities of artificial synthetic marble are very much the same as those of natural marble. Synthetic marble is produced out of fillers and synthetic resin is used as binder.
In the construction industry in India, while efforts are being made to introduce new technologies to expedite the work process and streamline it, the materials incorporated in production have not seen much upgradation. Sand lime bricks are used for the all building construction.
The safety razor is providing with guards on both sides of the cutting edges, which restrain the age from digging into the skin. Development in razors and improvements in the quality of the blades resulted in a large acceptances of safety razors as the instrument for the shaving and today it is a commodity of everyday use in all part of the civilized world.
Piping may represent as much as 25% of the cost of a chemical process plant. The economics depends heavily on the pipe size and fabrication techniques employed. Heat tracing for insulated pipes is generally only required for the period when the material in the pipe is not flowing.
Carpentry and joinery are common terms used with any class of work with wood. Strictly speaking carpentry deals with all works of a carpentry such as roofs, floors, partitions, etc. of a building, while joinery deals with the making of doors, windows, cupboards, dressers, stairs and all interior fitments for a building.
Enameled wire is an insulated wire used in winding of armatures in transformers, switch gears and other electrical equipments. When connected to the main supply a magnetic field is developed around the enameled wire coil and it helps to the conversion of electrical energy into mechanical energy as case of motors.
Admixtures are materials added to the concrete before or during its mixing, with a view to modifying one or more of the properties of concrete in the plastic or hardened state. An important feature of the majority of admixture for concrete is that it is difficult to quantitatively evaluate the behavior of the concrete under various possible circumstances.
There required large amount of hot rolled or cold rolled coils and strips for manufacturing of steel tubes. One of the major use of this tube is for making umbrella tube. A fair market for umbrella is available in India. Therefore, the consequent demand of umbrella tubes is also very satisfactory.
Hygiene is an essential component of healthy living, integral to achieving health and preventing disease. Not just selecting the right food choices but also cooking & consuming them in a hygienic way is equally important in preventing the infectious diseases. Adopting hygienic practices and promoting hygiene in the community, schools and workplace prevents innumerable infectious disease
A solar panel is a collection of solar cells. Lots of small solar cells spread over a large area can work together to provide enough power to be useful. The more light that hits a cell the more electricity it produces, so spacecraft are usually designed with solar panels that can always be pointed at the Sun even as the rest of the body of the spacecraft moves around, much as a tank turret can be aimed independently of where the tank is going
Electronic waste, e-waste, e-scrap, or Waste Electrical and Electronic Equipment (WEEE) is a loose category of surplus, obsolete, broken, or discarded electrical or electronic devices
A light emitting diode (LED) is a device which converts electrical energy in to light. LEDs are preferred light sources for short distance (local area) optical fiber network because they are inexpensive, robust and have long life (the long life of an LED is primarily due to its being a cold device, i.e. its operating temperature being much lower than that of, say, an incandescent lamp), can be modulated (i.e. switched on and off) at high speeds
Biscuit industry in India in the organized sector produces around 60% of the total production, the balance 40% being contributed by the unorganized bakeries…..
In modern days bread is now becoming one of the most essential food item in human diet due to its readymade availability and high nutritive value. It is the most consumable wheat based bakery product…..
Bakery is one of the oldest among the food processing activities. An estimated 78,000 bakeries operate in India. The production of bread is estimated at 11.5 lakhs tonnes and biscuits at 7.8 lakhs tonnes….
A diaper or nappy is a kind of underwear that allows one to defecate or urinate in a discreet manner. Diapers are primarily worn by children who are not yet potty trained or experience bedwetting
The extensive utilization of many types of constructional variants of electric motors in industry, commerce and the home would make a comprehensive guide for their selection, application and maintenance runs into many pages
There are some essential oils which have property to repellant of mosquito. Mosquitoes cannot bear the flavour of essential oil though they do not die but they run away. Raw material required for manufacturing of essential oils are easily available in the market
A solar cell, sometimes called a photovoltaic cell, is a device that converts light energy into electrical energy. Solar panels generate free power from the sun by converting sunlight to electricity with no moving parts, zero emissions, and no maintenance
Extrusion-technology is gaining increasing popularity in the global agro-food processing industry, particularly in the food and feed sectors. Extrusion cooking technologies are used for cereal and protein processing in food
uPVC products are fire retardant. This is because they contain more than 70 % unplasticised uPVC which turns 57% Chlorine. This contribute efficiently to the flame retardant. Further, it has very high ignition temperature 400ºC against 210ºC of wood and has an index of 50% against 21% for wood
Here are some frequently asked questions (FAQs) related to the list of 50 selected projects for Micro, Small, and Medium Enterprises (MSMEs) and best industries to start a business for making money:
A1: The list was curated based on various factors, including market demand, profitability, scalability, and the potential for success in different industries. It also considers the current economic trends and opportunities.
A2: Key factors to consider include market research, business planning, funding, location, legal compliance, marketing strategy, and a clear understanding of the chosen industry.
A3: Certainly. Some examples could be food processing, IT services, renewable energy, healthcare services, e-commerce, and craft manufacturing. The list encompasses a wide range of sectors.
A4: While prior experience can be beneficial, it's not always necessary. With proper research, planning, and a willingness to learn, entrepreneurs can enter new industries successfully.
A5: Funding options may include personal savings, loans from banks or financial institutions, venture capital, angel investors, crowd funding, or government schemes designed to support MSMEs.
A6: Yes, many governments offer incentives, subsidies, and schemes to promote MSME growth. These can include tax benefits, low-interest loans, grants, and support for technology adoption.
A7: Common challenges include limited access to capital, market competition, regulatory compliance, hiring and retaining skilled labor, and adapting to changing market trends.
A8: Conduct a thorough feasibility study that includes market research, financial projections, and a detailed business plan. Seek advice from industry experts or mentors.
A9: You can research each project individually, consult industry-specific resources, and reach out to business associations, government agencies, and business advisors for guidance.
Remember that starting an MSME business requires careful planning and dedication. It's essential to stay informed, seek advice, and adapt to changing circumstances to increase your chances of success in the chosen industry.
𝐂𝐨𝐧𝐭𝐚𝐜𝐭 𝐮𝐬
NIIR PROJECT CONSULTANCY SERVICES, DELHI
ENTREPRENEUR INDIA
106-E, Kamla Nagar, Opp. Mall ST,
New Delhi-110007, India.
Email:
Tel: +91-11-23843955, 23845654, 23845886
Mobile: +91-9097075054, 8800733955
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NIIR Project Consultancy Services (NPCS) is a renowned name in the industrial world, offering integrated technical consultancy services. Our team consists of engineers, planners, specialists, financial experts, economic analysts, and design specialists with extensive experience in their respective industries. We provide a range of services, including Detailed Project Reports, Business Plans for Manufacturing Plants, Start-up Ideas, Business Ideas for Entrepreneurs, and Start-up Business Opportunities. Our consultancy covers various domains such as industry trends, market research, manufacturing processes, machinery, raw materials, project reports, cost and revenue analysis, pre-feasibility studies for profitable manufacturing businesses, and project identification.
Our Services
At NPCS, we offer a comprehensive suite of services to help entrepreneurs and businesses succeed. Our key services include:
Publications
NPCS also publishes a variety of books and reports that serve as valuable resources for entrepreneurs, manufacturers, industrialists, and professionals. Our publications include:
Our Approach
Our approach is centered around providing reliable and exhaustive information to help entrepreneurs make sound business decisions. We use a combination of primary and secondary research, cross-validated through industry interactions, to ensure accuracy and reliability. Our reports are designed to cover all critical aspects, including:
Financial Details and Analysis
Our reports include detailed financial projections and analysis to help entrepreneurs understand the financial viability of their projects. Key financial details covered in our reports include:
Reasons to Choose NPCS
There are several reasons why entrepreneurs and businesses choose NPCS for their consultancy needs:
Market Survey cum Detailed Techno Economic Feasibility Report
Our Market Survey cum Detailed Techno Economic Feasibility Report includes the following information:
Market Study and Assessment
Raw Material Requirements
Personnel Requirements
Plant and Machinery
Manufacturing Process and Formulations
Infrastructure and Utilities
Project at a Glance
Our reports provide a snapshot of the project, including:
Our reports include several annexures that provide detailed financial and operational information:
Why Choose NPCS?
Choosing NPCS for your project consultancy needs offers several advantages:
Testimonials
Don't just take our word for it. Here's what some of our satisfied clients have to say about NPCS:
We have helped numerous clients achieve their business objectives through our comprehensive consultancy services. Here are a few case studies highlighting our successful projects:
Here are some frequently asked questions about our services:
What is a Detailed Project Report (DPR)?
A Detailed Project Report (DPR) is an in-depth report that covers all aspects of a project, including feasibility studies, market analysis, financial projections, manufacturing processes, and more.
How can NPCS help my startup?
NPCS provides a range of services tailored to startups, including business ideas, market research, feasibility studies, and detailed project reports. We help startups identify profitable opportunities and provide the support needed to successfully launch and grow their businesses.
What industries do you cover?
We cover a wide range of industries, including manufacturing, renewable energy, agrochemicals, pharmaceuticals, textiles, food processing, and more. Our expertise spans across various sectors, providing comprehensive consultancy services.
How do I get started with NPCS?
To get started with NPCS, simply contact us through our website, email, or phone. Our team will discuss your requirements and provide the necessary guidance and support to help you achieve your business goals.
Our Mission and Vision
Mission : Our mission is to provide comprehensive and reliable consultancy services that help entrepreneurs and businesses achieve their goals. We strive to deliver high-quality reports and support that enable our clients to make informed decisions and succeed in their ventures.
Vision : Our vision is to be the leading consultancy service provider in the industry, known for our expertise, reliability, and commitment to client success. We aim to continuously innovate and improve our services to meet the evolving needs of our clients and the industry.
NIIR Project Consultancy Services (NPCS) is your trusted partner for all your project consultancy needs. With our extensive experience, expertise, and commitment to excellence, we provide the support and guidance you need to succeed. Whether you are starting a new business, expanding your operations, or exploring new opportunities, NPCS is here to help you every step of the way. Contact us today to learn more about our services and how we can help you achieve your business goals.
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Startup India Recognized Company
Unleashing potential: msme business ideas – a comprehensive guide, introduction.
Micro, Small, and Medium Enterprises (MSMEs) play a pivotal role in fostering economic growth and employment opportunities. Starting an MSME business requires innovation, dedication, and a deep understanding of market dynamics. This comprehensive guide explores various MSME business ideas , providing insights, FAQs, and essential information to empower aspiring entrepreneurs.
Role in economic development, market trends, skill set and passion, feasibility and viability, manufacturing, service-oriented, technology-driven, market research, business plan development, legal formalities, funding options, marketing strategies, how to identify a viable business idea, what are the legal requirements for msme registration, how to secure funding for an msme business, what marketing strategies work best for msmes, how to adapt to market changes in the msme sector, are there government schemes to support msmes, how to scale up an msme business successfully, access to finance, marketing and branding, regulatory compliance, technological adaptation, continuous learning, adaptability, financial prudence, inspirational stories, lessons learned, 1. introduction to msmes.
MSMEs are classified based on investment in plant and machinery or equipment. They significantly contribute to GDP and employment, fostering economic development.
MSMEs contribute to poverty reduction, equitable distribution of income, and regional development, making them essential for economic growth.
Identifying market trends and consumer demands is crucial for the success of an MSME venture.
Aligning business ideas with personal skills and passion enhances the likelihood of sustainable success.
Evaluate the feasibility and viability of business ideas through thorough market research and analysis.
Explore manufacturing opportunities such as food processing, textiles, or electronics.
Consider service-oriented businesses like consulting, digital marketing, or event planning.
Embrace technology-driven ventures, such as software development, app creation, or e-commerce.
Explore agro-based opportunities like organic farming, food processing, or agri-tourism.
Conduct detailed market research to understand customer needs, competition, and market trends.
Create a comprehensive business plan outlining goals, strategies, and financial projections.
Complete MSME registration and comply with legal requirements related to permits and licenses.
Explore funding options, including loans, grants, or investors, based on the business model.
Develop effective marketing strategies to reach the target audience and build brand awareness.
Identify a viable business idea by assessing personal skills, market demand, and potential profitability.
Legal requirements include obtaining a Udyam Registration certificate and complying with local business regulations.
Explore funding options like bank loans, government schemes, or attracting investors based on the business plan.
Effective marketing strategies include digital marketing, social media presence, and collaborations within the community.
Stay informed about market trends, embrace technology, and be agile in adjusting business strategies.
Governments often offer schemes providing financial assistance, subsidies, and incentives to promote MSME growth.
Scaling up involves strategic planning, efficient operations, and exploring new markets or products.
Explore diverse funding sources and maintain a robust financial management system.
Invest in effective marketing strategies and build a strong brand presence.
Stay informed about regulatory changes and ensure compliance through regular audits.
Embrace technology to enhance operational efficiency and stay competitive.
Stay updated on industry trends, new technologies, and business management practices.
Build a strong professional network through industry events, forums, and collaborations.
Be adaptable to changes in the business environment and proactively seek opportunities.
Maintain financial prudence by budgeting, monitoring expenses, and investing wisely.
Highlight real-life success stories of MSME entrepreneurs who overcame challenges.
Extract valuable lessons from case studies to inspire and guide aspiring entrepreneurs.
Embarking on an MSME venture requires a combination of creativity, resilience, and strategic planning. This comprehensive guide equips aspiring entrepreneurs with the knowledge, insights, and inspiration needed to navigate the dynamic world of MSMEs successfully.
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Before you begin your search for an SME loan for a specific project and commit to an application, you need to create a detailed project plan covering every crucial aspect of your business.
Why do businesses start new projects, what should be in the presentation to apply for project finance, 1. background of the business, 4. the company aims including the purpose for the loan, 5. project background and the progress to date, 6. market analysis, 7. financial analysis, 8. operational and financial plan.
A comprehensive report outlining why you want the loan, what it’s for, how much, and over what term will encourage lenders to view your professional approach with the right level of consideration.
We will highlight all the criteria you need to include in the project report to ensure your application has the best chance of success.
Once you’ve compiled all the information, you’ll be ready to apply through us.
A project report serves as a master plan. It gives focus and illustrates the feasibility of the project. It can predict future needs and help to guide decision-making while laying the groundwork to request financial assistance.
The project plan should focus on your target market while outlining your business strategy. It’s also best to concentrate on techniques and USPs (unique selling points) that present you in a different way from your competitors.
It’s important not to lose sight of the specific reason you want the loan, and this is where the project report differs from an overall business plan. However, items such as up to date management accounts and directors’ details still need including in the information.
It’s natural to be impatient in business. Still, you need to be realistic, and sometimes ambition needs to be tempered because if you lower your expectations initially, you might avoid expensive mistakes. Besides, replicating your strategy could be easier if you’ve already experienced partial and modest success.
No one can afford to be complacent in business, if an operation stands still, it can fade away. The main reason businesses begin new projects is to expand and increase profits. If a business needs profits for sustainability, they have to search for new markets and new customers continually.
As an example of a project that might require finance, let’s say you’re a small independent pizza maker with an excellent local reputation. Can you start a delivery service (after setting up a website that links with major food apps) by employing part-time drivers and scooter riders?
Expansion into other products or a new industry (linked to your current activities) is another reason to consider financing a new project. Using our pizza maker example, can you extend your delivery to include other food outlets if you build up a fleet of drivers or expand your range beyond pizzas, drinks and sides?
Could you become a courier or taxi service when the takeaway orders have a lull? If carefully controlled and the risk minimised, such changes to your original business can be easily managed.
Woman creating a business project report
There are critical elements to have in the project report, including:
Background of the business
Specify the project
List the employees involved in the project
The company aims, including the purpose of the loan
The project aims and progress to date
Market analysis
Financial details
Operational and financial plan
It’s important not to get too deeply involved in explaining the history of the business because your latest management accounts, including the balance sheet and profit & loss, will illustrate the overall financial health of your business. Prospective lenders want to see your clarity of purpose, so focus briefly on your success to date, on what you want the loan for and prove how the project will add value to your operation.
The project could be construction , equipment leasing , new product development, research, etc., and this is where you need to get very granular in your details.
For example, if you want to finance a construction project, actual precise costs would be far better than rough approximations. Similarly, several detailed quotes would be advisable; this proves you’re working hard to ensure you’re squeezing the best value you can out of the possible funding.
You might stand a better chance of getting the funding if you, your fellow directors/shareholders and certain employees have experience in the sector you’re looking to finance.
For instance, listing the employees or directors’ credentials is essential if the project involves new product development. As a team, if you can prove that you’ve overseen such successful novel projects before, this might sway lenders.
Suppose you and your colleagues managed other projects earlier in the business’s history, completed on time, within budget and the results added value. In that case, this might also generate confidence that managing a complex process is not new to you.
Let’s imagine you’re a small restaurant chain investing in a new range of commercial quality cooking facilities at each site, and industry experts must do the installation. You’ve found the new equipment you want for your premises and obtained a competitive quote from the fitters.
You now need to replace the old equipment with the latest and limit the downtime and lost revenue to an absolute minimum. Therefore, you should specify just how long the complete process will take and detail any gap or loss of income. This timeline is essential to your project report.
You then begin to outline when the investment in the new equipment starts to increase takings and profitability. Can you serve more customers quickly and with better quality food? Due to the installations, will you cater for more covers at each sitting?
Highlighting your progress as a business so far while stressing how the new investment will reap the rewards helps reveal your motivation and ambitions and proves you’ve reached the previous goals you’ve set.
Like a startup business plan, you must include market analysis in your project report if you’re hoping to borrow funds; this will prove you’ve done your homework and understand the competition. The study should include items such as who your current and potential customers are and how you’ll reach them.
Marketing your business online through paid banner ads or social media activity must be explained and budgeted. Any offline marketing initiatives should also be accounted for in your project plans. Clearly show the link between your marketing efforts, the costs and potential rewards.
Generally, established businesses apply for SME loans to get projects financed; as such, they should have their financials ready for inspection. For example, limited companies who’ve operated for approximately two years should have filed their first set of accounts. Moreover, management accounts, including an up-to-date profit and loss statement, should be available at the shortest notice.
The latest management numbers will differ from the most recently filed statements at Companies House if you’re a limited company, but both sets reveal a current snapshot of the business’s performance.
Whether you’re running a limited company or operating as a sole trader, the latest HMRC payments you’ve made can also show the overall health and efficiency of the business.
A cash flow statement can perfectly illustrate your ambitions for the business over the medium and long term. Measured over 1-3 years, this projection, when matched with your other financial details, helps create a comprehensive and professional image with the lenders you approach.
You can clearly show where the project spending is justified in the forecast; when does the break-even of the loan become clear? The cash flow itemises the capital loan repayments, and if you’re hoping to take the loan for five years, it might be worth covering that entire term in your figures.
So once you’ve worked your way through the above elements and got all your bases covered in your comprehensive business project plan, you’ve put yourself in an excellent position to apply for SME project finance. That’s when our team of dedicated Business Finance Specialists at Funding Options come into the picture.
We’ve helped over 10,000 businesses across the UK and Netherlands to secure over half a billion pounds of funding, and we’d like to help your business achieve its plans.
Head of Unsecured Lending
Joe has worked in the alternative lending space since 2015. During this time he has helped hundreds of SMEs access millions in essential funding ranging from long-term asset-backed lending to short-term unsecured revolving credit lines and beyond. In his role, Joe manages and supports a large team of Credit Finance specialists.
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Disclaimer: Funding Options helps UK firms access business finance, working directly with businesses and their trusted advisors. We are a credit broker and do not provide loans ourselves. All finance and quotes are subject to status and income. Applicants must be aged 18 and over and terms and conditions apply. Guarantees and Indemnities may be required. Funding Options can introduce applicants to a number of providers based on the applicants' circumstances and creditworthiness. We are also able to make insurance introductions. Funding Options may receive a commission or finder’s fee for effecting such finance and insurance introductions. *Eligibility criteria apply - see Tide website for full details. Funding Options Ltd is incorporated and registered in England and Wales with company number 07739337 and registered office at 4th Floor The Featherstone Building, 66 City Road, London, EC1Y 2AL. © Funding Options Ltd · Authorised and Regulated by the Financial Conduct Authority · Reference Number 727867
A detailed project report is a complete document which provides details on the overall picture of the proposed business/venture. A detailed project report is a final, appraisal report on the project and it provides details of the basic programmes, roles and responsibilities and all the activities to be carried out and the resources required and possible risk with recommended measure to counter them. It consists of information on economic, technical, financial, managerial and production aspect. It enables the entrepreneur to know the inputs and helps him to obtain loans from banks and financial institutions. The project report contains detailed information about Land and buildings required, Manufacturing Capacity per annum, Manufacturing Process, Machinery & equipment along with their prices and specifications, Requirements of raw materials, Requirements of Power & Water, Manpower needs, Marketing Cost of the project, production, financial analyses and economic viability of the project.
Our approach.
A detailed project report is a final, appraisal report on the project and it provides details of the basic programmes, roles and responsibilities and all the activities to be carried out and the resources required and possible risk with recommended measure to counter them. It consists of information on economic, technical, financial, managerial and production aspect. It enables the entrepreneur to know the inputs and helps him to obtain loans from banks and financial institutions.
Detail Project Report Content Following Information
User registration, user forgot password, application form.
Sluggish productivity growth is one of the biggest threats to overall economic growth in developed and developing economies alike, with serious implications for citizens’ well-being such as lower income growth, increased inequality, and challenges with loan repayment. In recent years, productivity growth has stalled in many places; a 2018 McKinsey Global Institute (MGI) study of seven Organisation for Economic Co-operation and Development (OECD) countries found a drop in average productivity growth , from 2.4 percent per year between 2000 and 2004 to 0.5 percent per year between 2010 and 2014.
Small and medium-size enterprises (SMEs) contribute to the productivity problem. Within the same sector or within countries of similar size, the productivity gap between large companies and SMEs can vary by a factor of two or more. In construction, for example, McKinsey research found that the productivity gap between SMEs and large companies is 26 percent in France, 41 percent in Germany, and 54 percent in Italy. In the food-services and accommodation sector, the gap is smaller for Italy, at 29 percent, compared with 39 percent for France and 41 percent for Germany. These productivity differences reach 60 percent in Turkey and 80 percent in Greece in many sectors. And a large share of the world’s population works for an SME—between 50 percent and 90 percent of the labor force, depending on the country. 1 For example, Canada, Korea, and China have more than 80 percent of private sector employees working in SMEs, according to OECD enterprise statistics.
Improving the productivity of SMEs is therefore a worthwhile endeavor. Indeed, SMEs can spur a country’s growth for two reasons. First, integrating proven practices and technologies is faster and safer than testing new ones, and SMEs have a large adoption gap to close. In the same way that emerging markets can grow faster than high-income markets by adopting tested technologies, SMEs can grow faster than large companies by adopting the proven technologies and practices of larger enterprises. Second, start-ups, which are a critical subsegment of SMEs, have become important sources of innovation. Because they are unhindered by legacy systems and outdated strategies, new market entrants are often able to rethink established practices and cut through traditional industry boundaries.
Halving the global productivity gap between SMEs and large companies would amount to about $15 trillion in corresponding value added, or roughly 7 percent of global GDP. 2 Based on the weighted average of the productivity gap between SMEs and large companies for countries where OECD data are available. The weight used has been the number of SME employees in each country. Ireland has been excluded as an outlier due to large companies establishing regional headquarters in Ireland and shifting profits for tax purposes, showing an artificially high productivity gap between SMEs and large companies of over 70 percent. Governments around the world can and are helping close this gap through ten approaches tailored to meet SMEs’ most pressing needs.
When enabled by a business-friendly environment and open markets, large companies can thrive; meanwhile, SMEs have a broad range of unmet needs. The limited size of many SMEs means they have difficulty accessing capabilities and resources that would make them more productive, including talented individuals with the latest knowledge of technology, finance, and managerial practices.
Furthermore, many SMEs are young enterprises, which, when combined with their small scale, makes them a weaker counterpart for many standard market players, not only in terms of funding access but also for customers who might perceive small suppliers as too risky. Nonstandard market players such as crowdfunding platforms and venture-capital funds are still in the early stage of development in many OECD countries and often cannot fulfill the needs of SMEs.
Given the challenges facing SMEs and the size of the opportunity, most G-20 countries have created a national agency fully or primarily focused on supporting their growth. 3 India, Indonesia, and South Korea have established dedicated ministries to support SMEs. Other countries have established entities and agencies with the same purpose: Saudi Arabia established the General Authority for Small and Medium Enterprises, the United States has the long-standing Small Business Administration, and countries such as Canada and France have development banks mandated to develop the SME ecosystem. However, operating these government agencies is challenging for the same reasons that markets have struggled to meet SMEs’ needs: their small scale and diversity of circumstances.
Our research, analysis, and experience working with SMEs and SME-development agencies suggests that governments and nongovernmental organizations (NGOs) seeking to serve SMEs’ unmet needs would benefit from two actions: first, understanding and improving the SME ecosystem and second, pursuing a targeted approach to serving various SME subsegments.
Specifically, they should focus on promoting three characteristics of a healthy and well-performing SME ecosystem: boosting the business confidence of SMEs, enabling the growth of SMEs—in general and for high performers—and increasing the competitiveness of SMEs (Exhibit 1). Establishing these three characteristics requires a segmented execution approach. It is therefore important that government agencies design their menu of services after identifying the subsegments prevalent in their country and the differences in their needs. We have identified ten approaches that are used across the world to help meet these needs.
In our experience, SMEs typically fall into one of six categories: early-stage innovative start-ups, established successful start-ups, growing medium-size companies, stagnant or struggling medium-size companies, locally focused small businesses, and informal microbusinesses (Exhibit 2).
While it is important to consider the totality of all SME subsegment needs, we believe that SME-development agencies should focus their limited resources on those with the highest potential for impact, with programs tailored to their specific situations.
Medium-size companies are often priority subsegments. According to our analysis, even though medium-size enterprises make up only 2 percent of all companies, they account for about 30 percent of GDP and employment in most countries.
This can vary by country, of course. A country such as India, for instance, has a low urbanization rate, with hundreds of millions of people employed in the informal sector or in small businesses in rural areas. It is difficult to neglect these segments in India; however, a highly urbanized country with a lower level of informality could have a more targeted approach and focus only on innovative start-ups and medium-size companies.
A country’s economic-development strategy should therefore guide the prioritization. For example, if export growth is a priority, medium-size companies operating in tradable goods and services could take precedence. While such ranking can be difficult, scattering resources among too many recipients may severely diminish their impact.
Government agencies and NGOs with a good understanding of SME subsegments can better tailor their programs to meet SMEs’ unmet needs. We have researched SME support programs across the world and categorized them into a matrix of ten approaches. Some are tailored to a single subsegment while others address one of the six unmet needs for all or most subsegments (Exhibit 3).
For all these categories, the specifics of how they are implemented matter; therefore it is difficult to draw universal best practices from them. However, it can be instructive to consider the following ways these programs are helping to close the productivity gap for SMEs.
Besides institutions, regulations, and facilities, the attractiveness of an entrepreneurial career and citizens’ entrepreneurial capabilities are also important in increasing the development and survival rates of start-ups. Many ideas are never prototyped or converted into a business plan. Risk aversion, fear of failure, and lack of capabilities can be just as significant barriers as lacking the regulatory and institutional support. Several governments have attempted to develop an entrepreneurial mindset among their citizens.
Inculcating entrepreneurial skills through formal education is often part of the solution. Poland, for example, teaches elements of entrepreneurship in primary-school core subjects, such as history and math, and upper-secondary students are required to take “Introduction to Entrepreneurship.” 4 Entrepreneurship education in Poland , School Education Gateway. August 2015, schooleducationgateway.eu.
Entrepreneurial education is also thought to promote equity, and many organizations have focused on developing an entrepreneurial mindset and capabilities in young residents of low-income communities. In the United States, for example, the Network for Teaching Entrepreneurship (founded in 1987) delivers multiple entrepreneurial programs and extracurricular activities through 1,882 partner schools. The programs have reached more than 23,000 students across states and approximately 50,000 more internationally. Additionally, 75 percent of the network’s alumni have enrolled in college and 25 percent have started at least one business. 5 2018 Annual report: Preparing the next generation—youth entrepreneurship and the future of work, Network for Teaching Entrepreneurship, January 2019, nfte.com.
Entrepreneurs around the world have chosen major start-up hubs to launch their enterprises, seeking an innovative environment, access to financing, and business support. Many governments have prioritized turning one or more of their cities into a start-up hub, by either branding the city as a start-up hub or supporting start-up campuses. As governments attempt to enable or develop start-up hubs, they can focus on some of the toughest challenges entrepreneurs typically face—navigating the administrative requirements to start and run a company, accessing the competencies needed to run a business, and being able to afford the launch of a start-up as well as the costs of living in a start-up hub.
In the 1960s, federal laboratories settled in Boulder, Colorado, and partnered with the University of Colorado to fund and conduct research on energy, environment, and climate topics. Since then, the city has established numerous important assets, including leading research institutions. Boulder currently boasts 12 active start-up accelerators and incubators.
Moreover, the Colorado Office of Economic Development and International Trade (OEDIT) works closely with the governor of Colorado to offer financial support services—including grants and tax incentives—to selected start-ups. The OEDIT also hosts the Colorado Small Business Development Center Network, which provides technical business support through mentorship, consulting, and training.
Today, Boulder ranks as one of the best 30 start-up ecosystems globally. 6 Global startup ecosystem report 2019 , Startup Genome, May 9, 2019, startupgenome.com. Companies in the tech sector employ 9.7 percent of Colorado’s total workforce and make up 14 percent of its economy. 7 “Colorado tech workforce added 6,500 jobs in 2017, boosted contribution to state’s economy,” CompTIA, March 27, 2018, comptia.org.
Government funds for start-ups first appeared in Europe following World War II. Today, governments in high-income countries are paying more attention to the start-up sector, hoping to boost innovation and stimulate economic impact through venture capital (VC). Setting up a GVCF can contribute to this objective while also providing adequate financial returns for the government. Some ecosystem prerequisites can increase the impact of a GVCF, including a well-developed capital market to maximize exit options (for example, secondary stock market, later-round exits, strategic acquisitions, and openness to foreign ownership).
One important component of a successful government-led ecosystem is the ability to attract investors from the private sector. In many cases, public investment in VC crowds out private-sector investors, given that GVCFs often have more leverage and access to funds as well as limited accountability on costs (see sidebar “The Business Development Bank of Canada: Activating the Canadian VC industry and initiating a growth-driver scale-up program”). A GVCF’s design can also influence its success in important areas such as aligning GVCF objectives with national development goals and aligning the fund governance and operations with its mandate and investment strategy.
The Canadian government established the Business Development Bank of Canada (BDC) in 1944 and repurposed its mandate in 1995 to support the growth of Canadian entrepreneurs and start-ups. It serves as an example of a successful government venture-capital fund and scale-up program.
The investment arm of BDC, BDC Venture Capital, shows that government VCs can be profitable while spurring economic development. As of December 2017, BDC Venture Capital had invested more than $500 million in their portfolio companies and exited 95 investments; companies BDC invested in had raised about $4 billion by 2017 and created more than 5,800 jobs. 1 “Higher number and greater diversity of entrepreneurs now calling on BDC for financing and advice,” Business Development Bank of Canada, July 26, 2018, bdc.ca.
BDC Venture Capital employs two approaches: active direct investment and passive investment in various funds through BDC capital fund investments and BDC capital direct investments. The approaches have different investing processes and commitment levels from an investment board that oversees and assures high quality of investments. Beyond typical investment activities, BDC Venture Capital offers investees several support services, including networking with experts, training sessions, and seminars to develop their VC-fund capabilities.
BDC has also succeeded in two important ways. First, it created a healthy deal flow. A relatively broad focus toward healthcare, IT, industry, and energy has allowed for a pool of high-quality deals. The core team of BDC Venture Capital prioritizes investments in start-ups established mostly in Canada, on the condition of having a solid business model, a clear competitive advantage, and management with an entrepreneurial spirit.
Second, BDC Venture Capital has been able to attract talented VC professionals. One of BDC’s latest strategies to attract talent has been the option to spin off internal funds to talented managers. In the 2018 strategy release, BDC announced the spin-off of the Information Technology Fund, letting the two partners comanaging the arm lead the new independent fund, Framework Venture Partners. That fund ultimately raised $100 million, half of which is matched by BDC Capital. The model provides a significant career opportunity for talented investors and bolsters the quality of the Canadian VC ecosystem.
BDC established its Growth Driver Program in 2016 to help high-potential domestic firms overcome common challenges and barriers to scalability. The program aims to harness BDC’s internal expertise and professional network to place entrepreneurs at the center of a multidisciplinary support system that guides SMEs through each phase of enterprise growth, driving economic growth and supporting job creation. Since the program was founded, it has supported more than 140 businesses with combined revenues of $4.7 billion. 2 All figures from Canada’s BDC case study are in Canadian dollars.
Companies must formally apply to the Growth Driver Program, providing information regarding their financial performance and internal skills and team capabilities along with the key growth challenges. If they are selected, they will be offered to invest money in the program to showcase commitment. The money spent kicks off a two- to three-year program during which the business is given professional and developmental support from the BDC core team and dedicated consultants, who work with the companies to optimize their growth strategies, financing structures, and internal controls.
Meanwhile, senior leaders are enrolled in courses at top executive training schools. At its core, the program seeks to accelerate growth trajectories by injecting and transferring BDC’s knowledge of industry best practices, enabling them to avoid the organizational flaws that typically limit SME expansion.
The initiative is industry agnostic and targets medium-size businesses that are deemed potentially high impact. These firms have a minimum of $15 million in revenues, strong management, and feasible growth plans that can be quickly rolled out. BDC deploys public resources only on businesses that are intrinsically robust enough to generate sustainable returns at scale but lack the required experience and executional expertise to do so alone.
The South Korean government, for example, founded the Korea Fund of Funds as part of the Special Measures for the Promotion of Venture Business Act in 2005 with the purpose of providing stable capital for the venture-investment ecosystem. The $2.8 billion fund has a passive investment strategy, focused mainly on seed- and early-stage start-ups. The fund has made approximately 6,000 investments in start-ups and 722 investments in other funds to date, with total fund size growing from 1 trillion won (approximately $840 million) in 2009 to 4 trillion won in 2018.
Following the development of the Korea Fund of Funds, the government established four more dedicated funds: to invest in growth-stage SMEs with high job-creation potential, to support and coinvest with angel investors and minimize equity gaps for start-ups, to finance technology SMEs, and to create a foreign VC fund to support South Korean start-ups that plan to operate overseas.
The South Korean government created a large database and network of angel investors. All funds are invested only in South Korean companies to ensure local development of the start-up segment and the venture capital industry without focusing on any specific sector and are managed by a third party, the Korea Venture Investment Corporation. The South Korean government witnessed a 178 percent increase in seed deals through coinvesting with private players in early stage start-ups.
By measures such as share of GDP, South Korea’s VC investments are the fourth largest of the OECD countries, behind only Israel, the United States, and Canada. At 0.36 percent, its VC investments more than doubled between 2010 and 2017 while other OECD countries’ VC investments declined significantly. 8 OECD data highlights that VC investment increased from $527 million in 2010 to ~$1.9 billion in 2018; Kim Gang-rae and Lee Eun-joo, “S. Korea’s venture investment accounted for 0.36 percent of GDP in 2018: private council,” Pulse, June 5, 2019, pulsenews.co.kr. A notable sign of success for the government-led initiative is the 9 percent increase in private-sector VC investments due to participation by crowding in investors, which corresponds with a greater number of VC firms and investment managers. 9 Taehyun Jung and Jonghoon Lee, “Policy-driven expansion of venture capital industry: An empirical examination of contexts, factors, and effects behind the recent surge of Korean venture capital industry,” Academy of Entrepreneurship Journal, 2017, Volume 23, Number 1, abacademies.org.
Many governments have launched scale-up programs that help medium-size businesses unlock their potential and grow faster. Some programs provide comprehensive support, facilitating SMEs’ access to finance, networking, consulting, and mentorship. Others follow a more targeted approach, focusing on specific sectors or predefined support services (see sidebar “The Business Development Bank of Canada: Activating the Canadian VC industry and initiating a growth-driver scale-up program”).
TURQUALITY, a state-funded scale-up program in Turkey that was launched in 2004, is led jointly by Turkey’s Ministry of Trade and the Turkish Exporters’ Assembly. The program aims to support promising Turkish companies with strong brands, established business capabilities, and high economic potential—to ultimately transform top Turkish businesses into global players that have well-known global brands and generate high value-added exports.
The program is open to all Turkish companies, which must apply online and undergo an on-site inspection of their performance by the ministry and accredited evaluators. At the end of this assessment, each applicant receives a score along with a well-documented report on their current performance and development areas. Companies with mature business processes and capabilities, high brand value, and a certain level of exports are accepted into the program and become eligible for support. Primary areas of support include international brand building activities, overseas store openings, talent acquisition, and large-scale corporate transformation projects.
TURQUALITY initially focused on the textile and ready-to-wear sectors, which have a clear competitive advantage and high branding potential. Ultimately, the program expanded to other manufacturing and service sectors. The program has supported more than 300 companies across about 20 industries that now generate more than 5 percent of Turkey’s exports, make branded exports to more than 150 countries, and have achieved double the export trade value compared with the national average.
Using a model akin to scale-up programs, governments have also launched support programs that aim to enhance and accelerate the productivity of SMEs. In these programs, expert coaches in operational excellence and capability building help participating medium-size companies gain awareness of best practices and translate them into customized improvement initiatives. Many such programs rely on lean management practices , as well as on model factories, facilities that are optimized with the most efficient operational practices and latest technologies—providing SME employees a hands-on learning environment.
In Morocco, for example, the government launched a model factory in 2011 to help SMEs adopt the latest lean manufacturing principles through experiential training. The initiative, the Moroccan Micro-enterprise Support Institution (INMAA), was established with an investment of 20 million dirhams (approximately $5.5 million) by public institutions, financial institutions, and private-sector players. 10 “INMAA, a model factory for Moroccan SMEs,” Invest in Morocco, May 6, 2011, invest.gov.ma. INMAA aims to enroll 100 SMEs annually for a six-month program in which change agents spend a few days each month at the model factory for theory and practice modules, with the remainder of the month spent implementing the lessons learned.
The program starts with a diagnostic phase in which participants evaluate their current operations. The second phase involves the participants and experts envisioning the ideal future state. The implementation phase takes three months and equips change agents with the essential lean-manufacturing tools while practically implementing them in their own operations. The experts from the model factory continue to advise and guide change agents and conduct field visits to assess and aid the overall transformation, even after the participants graduate.
To date, INMAA has trained 650 change agents from 340 SMEs across seven sectors—achieving a 40 percent increase in productivity of participants on average. The program aims to transform the top 800 SMEs in Morocco, achieving a 25 percent increase in productivity. 11 “INMAA,” accessed March 3, 2020, inmaamaroc.ma.
The MGI has estimated an increase of productivity growth from digital adoption of 1.2 percentage points per year for some countries, representing the main contribution to productivity growth overall. Much of the impact relies on or is enhanced by AI applications . For SMEs, the theoretical opportunity is likely higher, but the corresponding implementation challenges are also more difficult.
Limited awareness of AI, limited access to digital talent, and limited capital to invest in AI applications can significantly hinder the uptake of these technologies by SMEs. Governments have started expanding their productivity programs toward digital adoption or setting up dedicated programs to help SMEs deploy AI technologies in their processes and products. Similar to productivity programs, digital- and AI-adoption programs also rely on centers of excellence and model factories for demonstrations. These programs depend on an ecosystem of different players and professionals to enable SMEs to deploy AI in their companies. The Mittelstand 4.0 centers of excellence in Germany, for example, are the first of 26 AI competence centers, staffed with 20 AI coaches to train 1,000 SMEs each year. 12 “Artificial intelligence strategy,” German Federal Ministry of Education and Research, Federal Ministry for Economic Affairs and Energy, and Federal Ministry of Social Affairs, November 2018, ki-strategie-deutschland.de.
In Finland, the Ministry of Economic Affairs and Employment and several technology industries have launched an accelerator dedicated to helping firms deploy AI. The accelerator offers six-month programs for companies that have already piloted an AI application on products or services. About 15 Finnish companies provide funding and technical support to the accelerator. In an initial phase, companies benefitting from similar AI use cases are batched together. Then, these organizations work with service providers, AI start-ups, and academics in short sprints to develop and deploy the AI applications to their processes or deliverables. The first batch of companies from the accelerator, for example, worked together to deploy Finnish speech-recognition technologies. 13 Leading the way into the age of artificial intelligence: Final report of Finland’s Artificial Intelligence Programme 2019 , Finland Ministry of Economic Affairs and Employment, June 12, 2019, julkaisut.valtioneuvosto.fi.
Over the years, Singapore government agency Workforce Singapore has launched a series of productivity-enhancing programs to help medium-size companies adopt lean management practices as well as digital and Industry 4.0 technologies. One such program uses a field-and-forum approach, which alternates between forum sessions and in-field application. During the forums, SMEs come together to understand the fundamentals behind lean and Industry 4.0 adoption and experience the impact on a model factory at the Digital Capability Center Singapore. They then apply these lessons in the field for a few weeks, supported by lean and digital experts, and exchange observations during the follow-up forum. This process allows companies to identify opportunities for improvement and implementation at their facilities. Moreover, SMEs will learn how to roll out progressive human capital practices and job redesign to augment their transformation.
To date, this Workforce Singapore program has been deployed successfully across multiple sectors, including food and beverage, hospitality, manufacturing, medical technology, and precision engineering. For example, ten precision engineering SMEs have participated in an Industry 4.0 transformation and job redesign program to enhance human capital and productivity. The 20-week program involved approximately 150 change agents and resulted in a 40 to 70 percent increase in machine and manpower productivity as well as an improved workplace environment. 14 Based on an interview with Digital Capability Center (DCC) Singapore.
Numerous NGOs and private-sector players have attempted to launch a local complementary currency restricted to a certain community (see sidebar “The 85 years of the Swiss WIR franc”). It could be as large as Switzerland (which has the WIR franc) or Sardinia, Italy (Sardex), or as small as the Bangladesh community in Mombasa, Kenya (Bangla-Pesa). Thousands of local currencies—which are typically digital-only and pegged to the legal tender—have emerged in areas where the legal tender and its connected monetary policies cannot provide enough credit to small businesses or enough purchasing power to local consumers.
Started in 1934, the WIR Bank is a complementary currency system in Switzerland that serves mainly hospitality, construction, manufacturing, retail, and professional services SMEs. Its original goal was to stimulate trade within its representative community (which now includes more than 50,000 businesses, almost 20 percent of all enterprises in Switzerland); more than 1 percent of the Swiss GDP is exchanged in WIR francs.
Research by economist James Stodder shows that the WIR creates a countercyclical tendency in the economy: during financial crisis, when the availability of legal tender contracts, trade in the WIR network increases and hence enables SMEs to avoid a severe downturn in profits and annual turnover. Despite the small absolute volume of the WIR franc in comparison to the national Swiss franc economy, this effect proved statistically significant.
The unit of account of the WIR franc is the Swiss franc: one always equals the value of the other. What’s more, no physical WIR francs are printed or minted—WIR credit is purely electronic. And WIR francs enter into circulation when being lent by the bank to an account holder, as with any other legal tender.
All participants sign up for a membership and start with a balance of zero, and all participants can buy from one another. The banks’ software keeps score of everyone’s balance, and the WIR website works as a marketplace for people and companies that want to buy and sell in WIR francs. However, not all suppliers accept 100 percent payment in WIR; combined payments—in which goods and services are paid for in part by cash and partly in complementary currency—are more common. Members agree to accept at least 30 percent of the payment in WIR francs. 1 Those who accept receiving more than 30 percent in WIR francs are known as “official members,” though there are many who accept up to 50 percent. Those who cannot guarantee the acceptance of at least 30 percent are considered “unofficial members”; since it is not necessary to publish this data, there are a number of “undercover” members.
The organization levies a fee of about 0.1 percent on every transaction and charges interest on overdraft facilities and loans, typically below 2 percent. 2 “The WIR ‘schafft es’, already more than 80 years,” European Business Review, September 10, 2018, europeanbusinessreview.eu; Institute of Social Currency, “The WIR, the supplementary Swiss currency since 1934,” in Bitcoin , The Economy Journal, accessed March 3, 2020, theeconomyjournal.eu; Thomas H. Greco, Jr. and Theo Megalli, “An Annotated Précis, Review, and Critique of WIR and the Swiss National Economy,” accessed March 3, 2020, reinventingmoney.files.wordpress.com.
Given that producers within the community are also consumers, a local currency can increase both the volume of transactions and the utilization of resources. Users can use this currency to settle payments between SMEs in the community. The community nature of the plan limits the need for credit scoring, which happens before an SME or individual is allowed in the network. The plan charges a one-time fee or small interest on negative balances. Most of these currencies have a proven record of a statistically significant expansion of credit and sales volumes, even though they tend to remain small scale. 15 Sara Calvo and Andres Morales, Exploring complementary currencies in Europe: A comparative study of local initiatives in Spain and the United Kingdom , Living in Minca, September 2014, livinginminca.org. Governments at all levels could consider complementary currencies as an inexpensive vehicle to stimulate demand and credit for local businesses, helping them increase their sales, investments, and ultimately, productivity and profits.
Government intervention can abate the three main barriers to business formalization: high cost of becoming formal, high cost of compliance, and insufficient perceived (or actual) benefits. Many governments have mobilized in this direction along several touchpoints:
On average, 40 percent of SMEs in the world are unserved or underserved when it comes to banking credit. 19 MSME finance gap: Assessment of the shortfalls and opportunities in financing micro, small and medium enterprises in emerging markets , joint report by World Bank Group and International Finance Corporation, 2017, ifc.org. Some subsegments are too risky for banks’ appetites while other subsegments have access to loans that have higher interest rates than their true risk profile. In reality, SME loans are often more profitable for lenders than large-firm loans.
A widely used program to resolve this is a credit-guarantee scheme (CGS), which aims to reduce the cost of potential defaults by guaranteeing part of the repayment of SME loans. CGSs have significantly increased SME credit access, with existing and running public and private credit-guarantee schemes in nearly 100 countries. The Korea Credit Guarantee Fund, one of the largest CGSs in the world, guaranteed a portfolio of loans of approximately $44 billion in 2018. 20 “About KODIT,” KODIT, accessed March 3, 2020, kodit.co.kr. As of 2015 and since its incorporation, the program has issued 205,361 guarantees—about 12 percent of SME loans in Korean banks. Furthermore, Korean CGSs have indirectly supported the increase of SME lending from 35.7 percent (when the agency was established) to 76.7 percent in 2015. 21 “Korean experience in credit guarantee scheme to enhance financial accessibility of MSMEs,” KODIT, May 12, 2017, unescap.org.
Several SME-development agencies have created a platform—usually a website—as a one-stop shop to not only access any government service, program, and data but also fulfill government requirements, such as paying taxes. Some websites have additional functionality, including marketplaces for business opportunities, access to data, and links to financial institutions, advisers, and legal services.
For example, UK charity Be the Business has developed an online self-assessment platform that is open to all SMEs and aimed at helping them improve their performance. On the platform, business owners and managers can undergo a comprehensive evaluation to understand their businesses’ current level of productivity relative to peers and receive systematic and immediately actionable advice and guidance. The platform also points business leaders toward other resources, including training programs and networking events, that can inspire improvements and build SMEs’ confidence in their growth.
The most advanced governments have started to provide services through apps with an SME login that gives users customized insights on government offerings and markets as well as tailored recommendations.
As many of these examples show, governments can help SMEs capitalize on growth and productivity-improvement opportunities. But unlocking SME growth is no easy task. Although we presented many success stories, some ventures have proven less successful and signal a need for caution. Careful assessment of benefits, costs, and risks can help identify the initiatives with the highest potential. Most importantly, the potential of SMEs’ growth and increased productivity is great enough that all governments should be paying attention.
Abdulaziz Albaz is a consultant in McKinsey’s Riyadh office; Marco Dondi is a consultant in the Dubai office, where Tarek Rida is an associate partner and Jörg Schubert is a senior partner.
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The top 10 micro, small, and medium enterprises trends for 2024, icsb leadership.
By Dr. Ayman El Tarabishy
President & CEO of the International Council for Small Business;
Deputy Chair of the George Washington University School of Business, Department of Management
In 2024, “Access to Sustainable Finance” emerges as a critical trend, offering a beacon of hope to Micro Small and Medium Sized Enterprises (MSMEs) navigating the complexities of an eco-conscious economy. This trend marks a significant shift in the financial ecosystem as forward-thinking solutions and providers emerge to bridge the gap, offering MSMEs vital access to sustainable finance. This isn’t just about providing funds; it’s about fueling sustainable growth and ethical business practices, enabling MSMEs to leverage green opportunities and thrive in a rapidly evolving economic landscape.
High global interest rates and environmental concerns have presented dual challenges for MSMEs seeking growth while aspiring to sustainability. Innovative financial solutions and providers are now dismantling these obstacles. They empower MSMEs by offering green and flexible financing options that align with their sustainable goals and growth trajectories. This trend cultivates resilience and responsibility among MSMEs, allowing them to swiftly adapt to market shifts and environmental mandates while capitalizing on eco-friendly opportunities.
In 2024, Access to Sustainable Finance is more than a lifeline; it’s a catalyst for sustainable innovation and ethical growth. With this targeted access to capital, MSMEs are equipped to face the challenges of high-interest rates and environmental responsibilities. This trend is unlocking the potential of these enterprises, enabling them to pursue sustainable expansion, green innovation, and market diversification, all while contributing to a healthier, more sustainable global economy.
MSMEs are increasingly capitalizing on the opportunities the tourism and sports sectors presented. Tourism, in particular, offers a wealth of possibilities for local businesses, from hospitality and travel services to unique experiences and cultural offerings. MSMEs are tapping into this potential by providing tailored services that cater to travelers’ evolving needs and preferences.
On the other hand, sports encompass a wide range of opportunities, from sports-related products and services to event management and athletic training. MSMEs are finding innovative ways to engage with the sports industry, capitalizing on sports enthusiasts’ and athletes’ passion and enthusiasm.
In 2024, Tourism and Sports for Development and Growth represent avenues for MSMEs to expand their reach, foster local economic development, and contribute to the vitality of their communities. By aligning with these sectors, businesses can tap into the immense potential for revenue generation, job creation, and cultural enrichment.
In 2024, Humane Entrepreneurship takes its place as the #8 trend for Micro, Small, and Medium-sized Enterprises (MSMEs), following its recognition as #4 in 2023. This trend reflects a growing awareness of the pivotal role of coaching and mentoring in nurturing employees’ potential within these businesses.
Humane Entrepreneurship emphasizes fostering a supportive and empathetic workplace culture. MSMEs recognize that their most valuable assets are their employees, and investing in their growth and well-being is a strategic imperative. Coaching and mentoring programs are gaining prominence as practical tools to unlock the full potential of staff members, enhance their skill sets, and nurture their career development.
By prioritizing Humane Entrepreneurship, MSMEs create a more inclusive and productive work environment and foster employee loyalty and commitment. This trend aligns with a broader shift towards valuing the human aspect of business, ultimately contributing to sustained growth and success in the competitive business landscape in 2024. Tourism and sports take the spotlight in 2024 as the #9 trend for Micro, Small, and Medium-sized Enterprises (MSMEs), following their recognition as #3 in 2023. This trend signifies the growing recognition of the significant role that tourism and sports play in driving development and growth for these businesses.
Empowering women and youth in micro, small, and medium-sized enterprises (MSMEs) continues to be a prominent trend in 2024. This movement began in 2023 when the International Council for Small Business (ICSB) championed the theme of supporting women and youth entrepreneurship and resilient supply chains. Initially met with skepticism, this theme gained profound relevance following Claudia Goldin’s Nobel Prize for her groundbreaking research on gender income disparities, especially in the wake of childbirth.
ICSB’s vision to empower women in entrepreneurship gains momentum, with greater recognition of their pivotal role in the entrepreneurial ecosystem. Claudia Goldin’s Nobel Prize underscores the urgency of addressing gender disparities in the labor market, aligning seamlessly with ICSB’s mission. The journey toward empowering women and youth in the MSMEs sector drives economic progress, societal advancement, and a brighter global future. It calls for collective efforts from international organizations, policymakers, and individuals to ensure sustainable and inclusive development worldwide.
In 2024, Circular Economy Business Models will emerge as a top trend for MSMEs, underlining a growing commitment to sustainability and waste reduction. Small and Medium-sized Enterprises (MSMEs) increasingly recognize the importance of aligning their operations with circular economy principles. This trend involves reimagining traditional linear supply chains and product lifecycles to create a more sustainable and environmentally responsible business approach.
One significant aspect of this trend is product design for recyclability, where MSMEs prioritize creating products that can be easily disassembled and recycled, minimizing waste and environmental impact. Additionally, MSMEs are exploring refurbishment and resale programs, extending the lifespan of products and reducing the need for new manufacturing. Collaborations and partnerships (trend #1) with other businesses to reuse and recycle materials are also gaining prominence as MSMEs seek innovative ways to reduce their ecological footprint and contribute to a more circular and eco-conscious economy. In 2024, Circular Economy Business Models are not only environmentally responsible but also present opportunities for cost savings, enhanced brand reputation, and greater market competitiveness, making them a crucial trend for MSMEs to embrace.
In 2024, the “Delivery Economy” stands out as a game-changing trend for Micro, Small, and Medium-sized Enterprises (MSMEs). This trend reflects a significant shift in consumer preferences, where virtually everything is delivered directly to the customer’s doorstep. With an emphasis on convenience, speed, and proximity, the Delivery Economy is transforming traditional business models and presenting unprecedented opportunities for MSMEs.
In this dynamic landscape, MSMEs are like boats, agile and nimble, while big businesses are like massive ships. The agility of MSMEs enables them to adapt swiftly to the demands of the delivery economy. They can provide personalized, rapid, and seamless delivery experiences, meeting the expectations of consumers who prioritize speed and convenience. This adaptability positions MSMEs to navigate and thrive in the fast-paced waters of this trend, capturing new markets and fostering customer loyalty.
In 2024, the Delivery Economy is not merely a trend but a strategic imperative for MSMEs. Those who invest in efficient delivery mechanisms and tailor their offerings to meet the demand for immediate access are poised to outmaneuver more prominent competitors. Like boats on the open sea, MSMEs can harness their agility to compete effectively and maintain competitiveness in an environment where speed and proximity are paramount.
In 2024, Agribusiness and Agtech are some of the top trends for Micro, Small, and Medium-sized Enterprises (MSMEs) in Africa. Agriculture continues to be a cornerstone of the African economy, and MSMEs are recognizing and capitalizing on the immense opportunities within the agribusiness sector. With a growing global demand for sustainable and traceable food production, the agricultural landscape in Africa is ripe for innovation and expansion.
One of the key drivers of this trend is the rapid advancement of agricultural technology, commonly called Agtech. MSMEs leverage Agtech solutions such as precision farming techniques, which optimize crop yields through data-driven insights and innovative farming practices. Furthermore, e-commerce platforms dedicated to farm produce connect local farmers with broader markets, reduce intermediaries, and increase profitability. Additionally, blockchain technology is harnessed for supply chain transparency, ensuring the traceability and authenticity of agricultural products from farm to table.
These innovative developments are transforming the agribusiness landscape and empowering MSMEs to play a pivotal role in addressing Africa’s food security, economic growth, and sustainability challenges. In 2024, the synergy between Agribusiness and Agtech propels MSMEs toward greater efficiency, market access, and environmental stewardship, making it a trend to watch and embrace for sustainable and profitable growth.
2024, Artificial Intelligence (AI) will become the No. 3 trend, significantly altering the business landscape. AI’s transformative influence reaches across industries, reshaping operations, decision-making processes, and customer interactions. For Micro, Small, and Medium-sized Enterprises (MSMEs), AI represents a powerful tool for data-driven insights, supply chain optimization, and personalized customer engagement, allowing them to compete globally.
One of the most remarkable developments linked to AI is the emergence of GEN AI, a new generation of workers who have grown up in an AI-integrated world. GEN AI possesses a natural fluency with technology and AI-driven tools, making them adaptable contributors to various industries. Their ability to harness AI’s capabilities for innovation highlights the need for MSMEs to invest in AI education and upskilling initiatives, capitalizing on GEN AI’s potential to drive growth and competitiveness. As industries evolve and adapt to AI, the dynamic synergy between human workers and intelligent machines becomes pivotal, setting the stage for a future where AI and GEN AI redefine business rules and shape the destiny of MSMEs globally.
Amidst the ongoing challenges, including the recent Gaza war, it is crucial to emphasize the importance of fostering Peace for Economic Development and Prosperity—our second trend for 2024. Russian Ukrainian entrepreneurs acutely feel the impact of a wartime economy and small business owners, exacerbating the global struggles with soaring natural gas prices and supply shortages like wheat.
In 2016, the International Council for Small Business (ICSB), led by Dr. Ayman El Tarabishy, proposed the idea of a United Nations Day for MSMEs. The vision was to dedicate a day where nations, stakeholders, and companies of all sizes could celebrate the significance of MSMEs as the fundamental building blocks of contemporary society. The proposal underscored that once conflicts cease, micro-, small-, and medium-sized enterprises play a pivotal role in economic reconstruction. MSMEs Day, commemorated on June 27th, was symbolically chosen, signifying the day after the initial signing of the U.N. Charter on June 26, 1945. It serves as a poignant reminder to nations worldwide that MSMEs are essential for solving global challenges and are indicative of a peaceful society.
In times of conflict, the path to prosperity may seem uncertain, but amidst the challenges, there is hope. The global community stands together to champion humanity, and businesses are pivoting their creative solutions to aid those affected by conflict—a collective effort that embodies the right way forward.
The foremost trend for 2024 reshapes the landscape of MSMEs, spotlighting the formation of Collaborative Alliances—an old concept infused with new vitality. It emerges as the #1 Trend for MSMEs, offering a transformative path forward for several compelling reasons. Businesses recognize unity’s undeniable strength in a volatile era marked by economic uncertainties and disruptions. Like Davids facing Goliath-sized challenges, MSMEs are now uniting as millions of Davids, pooling their resources, expertise, and market insights to form a formidable force. This collective strength empowers them to negotiate better terms, access untapped markets, and navigate market fluctuations with greater resilience than they could achieve as solitary entities.
Collaborative Alliances go beyond resource consolidation; they nurture a culture of innovation and cross-pollination of ideas. Within these alliances, members bring complementary expertise to the table, fueling collective problem-solving and a perpetual quest for improvement. This collaborative ethos not only optimizes resource allocation and trims operational costs but also enhances the individual resilience of businesses in the face of unpredictable challenges. These alliances wield substantial influence by uniting their voices in advocacy for favorable policies and regulations, actively shaping the business environment to serve their collective interests. In essence, Collaborative Alliances represent the evolution of MSMEs, empowering them to thrive, innovate, and navigate the intricacies of today’s dynamic business world with the strength derived from unity.
In Summary:
MSMEs must continue to endure but with an eye for innovation and fast action. The Argentinians best say it. “AGUANTE” – The power or ability to bear or to last.
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Elevate Your Entrepreneurial Journey ICSB Leadership By Dr. Ayman El Tarabishy President & CEO of the International Council for Small Business;
ICSB Leadership By Dr. Ayman El Tarabishy President & CEO of the International Council for Small Business; Deputy Chair of the
ICSB Leadership The Top 10 Micro, Small, and Medium Enterprises Trends for 2022 By Dr. Ayman El Tarabishy President & CEO
During the financial year 2024, a total of 27.4 million msme loans were sanctioned, amounting to rs 54.2 trillion. this marks a growth of 19.3% in volume and 5.4% in value.
Individual MSMEs recorded a Y-o-Y growth of 12.6 per cent in the value of originations and a 19.4 per cent increase. | Representational
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First Published: Sep 05 2024 | 5:46 PM IST
This Annual Performance Report presents the overall implementation progress of the project including performance against GCF investment criteria, financial information, project logic framework targets indicators, and development of ESS, Indigenous Peoples, and Gender project elements. It also provides information on challenges encountered and mitigation actions taken. The Annual Performance Report is submitted to GCF by the Accredited Entity responsible for the implementation of the project; the report is currently undergoing review by the GCF Secretariat and is subject to changes, if necessary. The cover date mentioned below denotes the last submission date of the Annual Performance Report by the Accredited Entity.
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'microretirees' borrow form their 'future selves to enjoy some of their retirement while they are still young,' the wall street journal reported.
'Barron's Roundtable' discusses reports that Gen Z members are aggressive about wanting to retire.
Rather than work until they retire permanently decades from now, a growing number of young adults in America are opting for "microretirements," where they take extended breaks from work to relax or travel in the short term.
As the Wall Street Journal reported on Tuesday , some workers in their 20s and 30s are deciding to take extended vacations at their current age, rather than wait until they’ve saved up for retirement later in life. Though proponents say it’s worth it, they might be ending up with $600,000 less at the traditional retirement age.
The outlet described these individuals as "borrowing years of freedom from their future selves to enjoy some of their retirement while they are still young."
LARGE DEFICITS, HIGH INTEREST RATES MAKING FEDERAL DEBT LESS SUSTAINABLE
Some younger Americans are opting for "microretirements" earlier in their careers rather than saving up entirely for their permanent retirement later in life. (Getty Images / Getty Images)
Though a few workers have committed to the microretirement lifestyle, more and more young people say they are open to the idea of taking extended breaks from work to volunteer or focus on "personal projects," WSJ noted, citing data from Handshake, a job database for college students.
The database reported that "nearly 80% of recent college graduates" like the idea.
The Journal spoke to 31-year-old Dana Saperstein about the microretirement lifestyle. Saperstein quit her marketing job so she could hike the Pacific Crest Trail for six months.
"If I keep working myself to the bone until 60 years old, I might physically never be able to hike the 2,650-mile Mexico-to-Canada trail," she told the outlet.
Fans of this trend say it’s worth taking the breaks even if less is saved for retirement, or if it takes longer to buy a house or make other major life investments.
Saperstein told the Journal that she and her fiancé saved $60,000 for their major hiking trip. She mentioned that she paused her retirement savings, her fiancé put away $800 a month for the trip, they suspended their car insurance, and they sublet their apartment to cover rent.
"We would rather prioritize the experiences and spending our money and time that way than buying a home and then being tied to it," she said.
The report provided a snapshot of what microretirees are sacrificing for their more immediate time off.
"Putting a career on hold usually means losing ground on retirement savings, along with salary and health insurance. Since money put in a 401(k) compounds over time as investments grow, the effects of a career break can be felt decades later," the outlet said.
SOARING DEFICITS TO PUSH PUBLICLY HELD DEBT TO RECORD LEVEL IN 4 YEARS
Microretirements allow younger American workers to take extended breaks off work to travel or work on personal projects. (Hannah Beier/Bloomberg via Getty Images / Getty Images)
The outlet cited Financial Finesse’s Julie Everett, who noted the total retirement funds sacrificed by a 30-year-old making $90k a year and putting 15% into a 401(k) who decided to take several microretirements.
"If they take off a year once a decade and return to the workforce at the same salary they had when they left, their investment balance at age 65 could be about $600,000 less compared with someone who had kept working," he said.
The outlet cited financial experts who advised that people considering career breaks should have their debts paid off . They should also have money saved to cover the time they may need to find a job after their breaks.
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Social media platform X was back up on Saturday after it suffered an outage that lasted less than an hour, according to outage tracking site Downdetector.com.
CSSC Holdings, China Shipbuilding Industry aim to 'focus on major state strategy'
HONG KONG -- Two listed Chinese state-owned shipbuilders announced Monday that they are preparing for a merger, a move that could end competition between them and help them better serve the military, while dealing with global vessel shortages.
In separate but virtually identical filings to the Shanghai Stock Exchange on Monday night, China CSSC Holdings and China Shipbuilding Industry (CSICL) said they had signed an agreement of intent to merge earlier that day. Trading of their shares was suspended Tuesday to avoid irregular movements while they arrange the deal, with the halt expected to last no more than 10 trading days.
China telecom, china mobile hike dividends under beijing pressure, china accelerates purge at state-owned companies to fight graft, south korean shipbuilders fulfill discounted orders to lift earnings, south korea's hanwha agrees to acquire american shipyard for $100m, chinese military vendor cetc to take over smaller tech company, latest on companies, alibaba's 3-year antitrust 'rectification' is over, beijing says, south korea delivery company yogiyo to offer buyouts, media say, japan inc. sells record $25bn in cross-held shares, led by toyota, sponsored content, about sponsored content this content was commissioned by nikkei's global business bureau..
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COMMENTS
MSME Project Profile
Top 50 MSME Project Ideas [Updated 2024] In today's fast-paced world, Micro, Small, and Medium Enterprises (MSMEs) play a vital role in driving economic growth and fostering employment opportunities. These enterprises are the backbone of many economies, contributing significantly to GDP and providing livelihoods to millions of people globally.
Opportunities for small businesses to boost productivity
A well-crafted project report for MSME loan plays a pivotal role in convincing lenders of the viability and success of your expansion plans. In this article, we'll walk through the specific requirements and steps involved in creating a compelling project report for MSME loan to facilitate your business expansion. 1.
2.1 The Objectives of a Business Plan. There are two primary purposes for preparing a business plan. The first is external, to secure funding that is very important for the growth and development of the enterprise. The second is internal, which is to support the strategic and corporate development of the business.
Profitable Manufacturing Business Ideas to Start. List of Most Successful Small Scale Business Ideas:-. Gold and Diamond Jewellery. Ladies Undergarment. Cold Storage (Shrimp & Agricultural Products) Skill Development Centre. A4 and A3 Size Paper. Acetaldoxime or Acetaldehyde Oxime. Production of Jute Gunny Bags.
Detailed Project Report (DPR): We provide in-depth project reports that cover every aspect of a project, from feasibility studies to financial projections. Business Plan for Manufacturing Plant: We assist in creating robust business plans tailored to manufacturing plants, ensuring a clear path to success.
List of 150 Profitable Business Ideas for MSME
This comprehensive guide explores various MSME business ideas, providing insights, FAQs, and essential information to empower aspiring entrepreneurs. 1. Introduction to MSMEs. 2. Factors Influencing MSME Business Ideas. 3. Popular MSME Business Ideas. 4. Step-by-Step Guide to Starting an MSME Business.
A project report serves as a master plan. It gives focus and illustrates the feasibility of the project. It can predict future needs and help to guide decision-making while laying the groundwork to request financial assistance. The project plan should focus on your target market while outlining your business strategy.
A detailed project report is a complete document which provides details on the overall picture of the proposed business/venture. A detailed project report is a final, appraisal report on the project and it provides details of the basic programmes, roles and responsibilities and all the activities to be carried out and the resources required and possible risk with recommended measure to counter ...
On average, 40 percent of SMEs in the world are unserved or underserved when it comes to banking credit. 19 MSME finance gap: Assessment of the shortfalls and opportunities in financing micro, small and medium enterprises in emerging markets, joint report by World Bank Group and International Finance Corporation, 2017, ifc.org.
MSME DEVELOPMENT PLAN The Micro, Small and Medium Enterprise (MSME) Development Plan 2017-2022 is the sectoral plan for the growth and advancement of the MSME sector. It was developed in consultation with various stakeholders from the private sector, academia, and government agencies. It is aligned with the Philippine government's goal of boosting employment, business, and livelihood ...
The survey results revealed that USAID's assistance in FY 2019 reached 434,857 MSMEs, of which an estimated 43 percent were women-owned or jointly-owned. Our Missions and OUs also reported on the number of very poor people reached through activities to support MSMEs. Our activities reached 341,678 very poor people through graduation ...
Micro-, Small and Medium-sized Enterprises (MSMEs) - SDGs
This trend aligns with a broader shift towards valuing the human aspect of business, ultimately contributing to sustained growth and success in the competitive business landscape in 2024. Tourism and sports take the spotlight in 2024 as the #9 trend for Micro, Small, and Medium-sized Enterprises (MSMEs), following their recognition as #3 in 2023.
1. Plan Allocation and Expenditure During 2018-19, 2019-20, 2020-21, 2021-22 and 2022-23 (Upto 31.12.2022) 155 2. List of Nodal Central Public Information Officers (CPIOs) 156 3. Contact Addresses of the Offices of M/oMSME and its Statutory Bodies 158 4. State-wise list of MSME-DFOs, Branch MSME-DFOs, MSME Testing Centres/Stations and ...
1. Quick and Easy Report Generation: Finline prides itself on its user-friendly interface, enabling users to generate detailed project reports in less than 10 minutes. The platform is meticulously ...
Ministry of Micro, Small & Medium Enterprises (M/o MSME) envision a vibrant MSME sector by promoting growth and development of the MSME Sector, including Khadi, Village and Coir Industries, in cooperation with concerned Ministries/Departments, State Governments and other Stakeholders, through providing support to existing enterprises and encouraging creation of new enterprises
ributed to 53% and 86% of employment in OECD countries such as the UK and Greece in 2017. In developing countries such as Peru, 98% of priva. e enterprises are MSMEs, contributing to 42% of GDP and accounting for 60% of. oyment. Likewise, MSMEs provide about 50% and 80% of employment in Cambodia and Kenya. The critical contribution of MSMEs to ...
During the financial year 2024, a total of 27.4 million MSME loans were sanctioned, amounting to Rs 54.2 trillion. This marks a growth of 19.3 per cent in volume and 5.4 per cent in value. The data showed a year-on-year (Y-o-Y) increase of 3.1 per cent in the value of originations for MSME entities, with a more robust 18.9 per cent growth in ...
1. Plan Allocation and Expenditure during 2018-19 to 2021-22 147 2. Status of Action Taken Notes in r/o Audit Observations 148 3. List of Nodal Central Public Information Officers (CPIOs) 150 4. Contact Addresses of the Offices of the Ministry of MSME and its Statutory Bodies 152 5. State-wise List of MSME-DIs and branch MSME-DIs 153 6 ...
This Annual Performance Report presents the overall implementation progress of the project including performance against GCF investment criteria, financial information, project logic framework targets indicators, and development of ESS, Indigenous Peoples, and Gender project elements. It also provides information on challenges encountered and mitigation actions taken.
Some young people plan 'microretirements,' borrow against goals of their future selves: Report 'Microretirees' borrow form their 'future selves to enjoy some of their retirement while they are ...
The total MSME loans originated or sanctioned in FY24 were 2.74 crore involving Rs 54.2 lakh crore, growing by 19.3 per cent in volume and 5.4 per cent in amount.
Japan's Toyota Motor has slashed its electric vehicle production plans for 2026 by a third, the Nikkei business daily reported, becoming the latest automaker to roll back electric car plans as EV ...
Companies Chinese state shipbuilders plan merger with eye on 'strong military' CSSC Holdings, China Shipbuilding Industry aim to 'focus on major state strategy'