India SME Forum Launches 'Start Exporting in Eight Weeks' Program

India SME Forum (ISF), the country's largest not-for-profit organization for Small and Medium Enterprises (SMEs), launched a program today titled "Start Exporting in Eight Weeks", to work with e-commerce export leaders like Amazon towards promoting Make in India products. Launched under ISF’s flagship initiative ‘IndiaXports’, the program was announced by Sushri Shobha Karandlaje, Hon'ble Minister of State for the Ministry of MSME, at the Business Beyond Borders 2024 Conference in presence of MSMEs and industry leaders.

The innovative "Start Exporting in Eight Weeks" program is designed to enable Indian MSMEs to access global markets and boost exports within just eight weeks. It will offer comprehensive guidance, resources and networking opportunities free of cost to MSMEs aspiring to explore international market opportunities and expand their reach. The initiative reflects ISF’s commitment to fostering global trade opportunities for MSMEs, aligning with the Government of India's broader vision of promoting economic growth and empowering enterprises through international trade.

Speaking on the launch of the program, Sushri Shobha Karandlaje, Hon'ble Minister of State for the Ministry of MSME, said, “MSMEs play a crucial role in contributing to the vision of Viksit Bharat 2047, and their success is essential to our nation’s journey towards becoming a developed and self-reliant India. In today’s highly competitive landscape, skilling and upskilling are critical, and it is vital that our products meet international, export-quality standards. Through platforms like the India SME Forum along with it's partners like Amazon, UPS etc and the new initiative launched today, our entrepreneurs will be connected to global markets, opening up new avenues for growth and collaboration. Let us utilize these opportunities to the fullest and continue striving for global excellence.”

Mr. Vinod Kumar, President, India SME Forum, said, “E-commerce has become a game-changer, breaking down traditional trade barriers and allowing even the smallest enterprises to reach international customers with ease. By harnessing digital platforms, MSMEs can bypass many of the logistical challenges of traditional exporting, making global trade more accessible than ever before. The ‘Start Exporting in Eight Weeks’ initiative is a movement towards transforming Indian MSMEs into a powerhouse of global trade. By equipping them with essential tools, knowledge, and international market access, we are enabling these businesses to become self-sufficient, globally competitive and significant contributors to India’s economic growth. We believe that with the right support, Indian MSMEs have the potential to compete with the best in the world." 

The launch event saw the participation of key dignitaries, including Ms. Dona Ghosh, Joint Director General of Foreign Trade (DGFT) and Mr. Bhupen Wakankar, Head of Global Trade at Amazon India, among others. The Business Beyond Borders 2024 Conference also hosted a series of engaging sessions, workshops, and B2B country meetings, all aimed at empowering MSMEs to become successful exporters.

In addition, the conference brought to the spotlight key topics such as accelerating e-commerce exports and addressing the gender gap in global trade, with insights from industry leaders including Mr. Britto Premkumar from UPS, Mr. Ganesh Yogesh Pai from Yes Bank, and Mr. R Sampath Raghavan, Head of EXIM & Logistics at Raymond. More than 300 MSMEs and businesses attended the event.