SMEStreet Successfully Concludes Webinar on "MSME Finance: Unlocking Growth Potential"

SMEStreet, a leading platform focused on empowering Micro, Small, and Medium Enterprises (MSMEs), successfully hosted its insightful webinar titled “MSME Finance: Unlocking Growth Potential” on 30th September 2024. The event was recorded live on the Zoom platform and featured a panel of distinguished speakers, providing MSME stakeholders with actionable insights on overcoming financial challenges and unlocking new growth opportunities.

The recorded webinar is now available for viewing on YouTube:
Watch Here

Webinar Highlights:

The webinar featured prominent experts who shared their experiences and insights on key topics relevant to MSME finance:

● Mr. Deepak Maheshwari, Co-Founder of DealPlexus.com:

Mr. Maheshwari elaborated on how fintech innovations are revolutionizing MSME finance by simplifying access to credit and speeding up loan processes. He provided valuable insights into the role of technology in transforming traditional financing methods. 

● Mr. Naresh Verma, Founder of Verma Die Casting and Former President of Faridabad Manufacturers Association:

Drawing from his extensive experience in manufacturing, Mr. Verma shared practical tips on managing cash flow and working capital, emphasizing the importance of liquidity for MSME operations.

● Mr. P. Udayakumar, Former CMD, NSIC and  NVCFL( SRI Fund) Delhi. Currently Apex Committee Member of BIRAC Equity Funds, Advisor, Puducherry Government and Advisor, Euro Exim Bank:

Mr. Udayakumar highlighted the critical role of government initiatives such as CGTMSE, SRI Fund and Mudra Yojana in providing innovative financial support to MSMEs. He also discussed how public-private partnerships can be utilised to create Digital infrastructures (FinTech) and Alternate Investment Funds ( AIFs) to  enhance the funding options for SMEs.

● Mr. Faiz Askari, Founder of SMEStreet.in (Moderator):

As the moderator, Mr. Askari guided the discussion, ensuring that key insights and strategies were shared with the audience. He emphasized the importance of financial planning, innovation, and leveraging available resources for MSME growth.

Important Quotes from the Panelists:

Mr. Deepak Maheshwari, Co-Founder of DealPlexus.com:

"Fintech is fundamentally reshaping how MSMEs access finance. By leveraging digital platforms, MSMEs are now able to secure loans faster, with minimal documentation and no collateral in many cases. This democratization of finance is key to unlocking their growth potential."

Mr. P. Udayakumar, Former CMD, NSIC:

"It is very critical  time for the Policy makers to take some strong initiatives for motivating MSMEs to opt for alternate finance. Venture capital  funding, Funding through SME IPOs etc must be incentivised. India's vast 10200 no  FinTech  agencies  should be utilised for doubling  the Finance penetration from  the current 14 %  and  collaboration between public and private sectors needs to deepen, especially through the use of technology, to make finance more accessible for MSMEs in underserved areas."

Mr. Naresh Verma, Founder of Verma Di Casting and Active Member of Faridabad Manufacturers Association:

"Cash flow is the lifeblood of any MSME. Delayed payments and liquidity issues can cripple small businesses, so finding practical solutions to maintain steady cash flow is essential for long-term sustainability. Working capital management is not just about survival—it’s about preparing for growth."

Mr. Faiz Askari, Founder of SMEStreet (Moderator):

"This discussion is crucial because the MSME sector is the backbone of the economy. Access to finance is one of the biggest barriers to growth, but with the rise of fintech and evolving government schemes, MSMEs now have more opportunities than ever to overcome these challenges and scale their businesses."

Key Takeaways from the Webinar:

1. Expanding Financial Access:

Fintech solutions and government initiatives are providing MSMEs with more accessible and diverse financial options, helping them overcome traditional barriers to funding.

2. Cash Flow Management:

Effective cash flow management remains critical for MSMEs, with experts sharing practical strategies for maintaining liquidity and managing receivables.

3. Government Support:

Government schemes continue to play a vital role in supporting MSME finance, but there is a need for further collaboration between public and private sectors to enhance their effectiveness.

4. Innovation in MSME Finance:

Digital platforms and fintech innovations such as blockchain and AI are shaping the future of MSME finance, offering faster, more flexible, and scalable financial solutions.

Watch the Webinar Recording:
To watch the full webinar and gain valuable insights from industry experts, visit the following link:
MSME Finance: Unlocking Growth Potential Webinar Recording

Previous SMEStreet Future Ready Webinars can be accessed here