Empowering MSMEs in North-East India through Capacity Building and Incubation
Background
The North-East region of India plays a vital role in the country’s industrial landscape, contributing nearly 62% of the informal manufacturing sector’s output through MSMEs. However, challenges like competition, poor infrastructure, capital scarcity, and limited market access hinder the sector’s growth. The UNDP-funded project aimed to address these issues and enhance the export potential of MSMEs in Assam, Mizoram, and Nagaland through capacity building.
Project Objectives
- Enhancing the capacity of social entrepreneurs in the handloom, handicraft, and agriculture sectors.
- Strengthening the export promotion ecosystem by collaborating with various stakeholders.
Proof of Concept and Scale-up Plan
Global Synergizers partnered with UNDP to drive this transformation through a two-phase approach:
Proof of Concept: Twelve social entrepreneurs were selected from Assam, Mizoram, Manipur, and Nagaland using an accelerator approach. The program aimed to empower entrepreneurs through a ‘Knowledge, Skills, and Attitude’ (KSA) framework, delivered via workshops, one-on one mentoring, and training sessions.
Long-term Scale-up Plan: A comprehensive project proposal was developed to extend training and deep handholding to MSMEs in the North-East. The focus was on product value addition, price setting, and similar aspects, designed to drive sustained growth and social impact.
Accelerator Design
The program’s approach encompassed several key elements
> Entrepreneur Selection Criteria: Rigorous criteria were established to select motivated individuals who exhibit entrepreneurial spirit, demonstrate financial prudence, and are committed to creating sustainable social impact.
> Module Development: The curriculum was designed to cater to the specific needs of entrepreneurs in handloom, handicraft, and agriculture sectors. Critical parameters and hygiene parameters were identified to ensure holistic learning.
> Mode of Dissemination: Knowledge transfer occurred through workshops, one-on-one mentoring, and small training sessions. Design thinking workshops, subject expert mentoring, and business expert interactions facilitated effective learning.
> Scalability Considerations: The program was structured to be scalable, allowing for potential future expansions and deeper interventions in the North-East region.
Business Coaching
An Associate Certified Coach (ACC) from the International Coaching Federation (ICF) provided business coaching to selected entrepreneurs. Four interactions were scheduled, covering aspects like goal-setting, business understanding, and structured coaching to aid effective decision-making and growth.
Closing Ceremony and Feedback
The project’s closing ceremony allowed participants to provide valuable insights. The entrepreneurs appreciated the handholding support and suggested focusing more on aligning entrepreneurs’ objectives during selection. The intention of maintaining an active WhatsApp group for future engagement was highlighted to ensure participants’ continued growth.
Call to Action
Socion (Global Syenrgizers), in collaboration with UNDP, has demonstrated the power of capacity building and empowerment in transforming the MSME landscape in North-East India. If you are an organization, investor, or individual passionate about fostering entrepreneurship, economic growth, and sustainable development in this region, consider partnering with us. Our proven methodologies, expert networks, and dedication to impactful projects position us as a valuable collaborator. Join hands with us to drive positive change, unlock potential, and empower the entrepreneurs of India. For partnership opportunities and more information, contact us at contact@socionimpact.com. Together, let’s catalyze growth and prosperity.
