Other BriefingsIndia’s Emerging Enterprises: Charting the Next Decade of SME Growth
India’s Emerging Enterprises: Charting the Next Decade of SME Growth, the latest publication from Dezan Shira & Associates is out now and available for free download through the Asia Briefing Publication Store.
In this issue
- Expanding Market Frontiers—E-Commerce, ONDC, and the Rise of Digital Trade
- Democratizing Capital—From Microcredit to Growth Finance
- The Talent Engine—Developing the Skills of India’s Entrepreneurial Workforce
- Future-Proofing Indian SMEs—Sustainability, Resilience, and Global Readiness
Small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs) form the backbone of India’s economy, contributing nearly one-third of the nation’s GDP and driving growth across manufacturing, services, and trade. With a workforce of over 110 million, they stand as the second-largest source of employment after agriculture, creating jobs and entrepreneurial opportunities in areas often underserved by large industries. In doing so, SMEs not only strengthen India’s industrial base but also promote inclusive development by bringing economic activity to smaller towns and rural regions.
Looking ahead, India’s SMEs are set to play an increasingly defining role in shaping the country’s growth trajectory. The latest edition of India Briefing magazine explores this transformation in depth—examining how e-commerce, the rise of digital trade, innovative financing mechanisms, and skill development initiatives are reshaping the sector. It also highlights how SMEs are embracing sustainability, building resilience, and preparing for global competitiveness.
This issue serves as a practical guide for business leaders, investors, and policymakers who seek to understand the opportunities and challenges within India’s SME ecosystem and the strategies that will determine its future impact on the economy.
Chapter summaries
Chapter 1 explores the critical role of digital platforms and the Open Network for Digital Commerce (ONDC) in redefining market access and opening new growth opportunities for entrepreneurs. Small enterprises are harnessing digital transformation to expand their reach and actively participate in a platform-driven economy.
Chapter 2 examines the evolution of financial models—from grassroots lending to venture capital—that are enabling enterprises of all sizes to scale sustainably. Indian SMEs now benefit from a wider range of funding avenues, including embedded finance, invoice discounting, and revenue-based financing.
Chapter 3 highlights the importance of a skilled workforce as the foundation of enterprise growth, detailing how India is building capabilities to strengthen its entrepreneurial ecosystem. Talent is being cultivated, retained, and deployed across the SME sector, from women-led businesses and gig workers to upskilled factory labor.
Chapter 4 presents strategies that help small enterprises withstand disruptions, adopt sustainable practices, and position themselves to compete effectively in global markets.
Sample infographics in this publication
SMEs are future-proofing their businesses by integrating sustainability practices, adopting green technologies, diversifying supply chains, and adapting to climate challenges.
With in-depth analysis and real-world case insights, India Briefing’s magazine offers a practical guide for entrepreneurs, global investors, and policymakers seeking to tap into the opportunities within India’s SME landscape.
For business inquiries, feel free to contact our India offices at India@dezshira.com.
About Us
India Briefing is one of five regional publications under the Asia Briefing brand. It is supported by Dezan Shira & Associates, a pan-Asia, multi-disciplinary professional services firm that assists foreign investors throughout Asia, including through offices in Delhi, Mumbai, and Bengaluru in India. Readers may write to india@dezshira.com for support on doing business in India. For a complimentary subscription to India Briefing’s content products, please click here.
Dezan Shira & Associates also maintains offices or has alliance partners assisting foreign investors in China, Hong Kong SAR, Dubai (UAE), Indonesia, Singapore, Vietnam, Philippines, Malaysia, Thailand, Bangladesh, Italy, Germany, the United States, and Australia.
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