Did You Know?
MSMEs contribute 30% of India’s GDP and employ over 110 million people! These small but mighty enterprises are the backbone of our economy, fostering innovation, creating jobs, and empowering communities, especially women in rural areas.
On June 27, 2025, we celebrate World MSME Day under the theme: ‘Enhancing the Role of MSMEs as Drivers of Sustainable Growth and Innovation.’
But what does that mean? And how are rural women entrepreneurs shaping this vision? Let’s dive in!
A Quick Rewind: What Are MSMEs?
The Micro, Small, and Medium Enterprises Development (MSMED) Act, 2006, was a game-changer for India’s small businesses. It defined MSMEs based on investment and turnover, ensuring they receive policy support, financial access, and growth opportunities.
- Micro Enterprises: Investment up to one crore rupees, turnover up to five crore rupees
- Small Enterprises: Investment up to ten crore rupees, turnover up to fifty crore rupees
- Medium Enterprises: Investment up to fifty crore rupees, turnover up to two hundred fifty crore rupees
This framework helped millions of businesses, including 19,000+ rural women entrepreneurs under WeAct, thrive in sectors like food & agro, handloom & handicrafts, and household supplies.
Sustainable Growth & Innovation: More Than Just Buzzwords
This year’s theme highlights the crucial role of MSMEs as drivers of sustainable growth and innovation. But what exactly does that mean?
What is Sustainable Growth?
Sustainable growth refers to long-term economic expansion that does not deplete natural resources or harm the environment and society. It balances progress with ecological preservation and social well-being, ensuring that future generations can thrive.
What is Sustainable Innovation?
It’s about creating solutions that benefit both people and the planet. Examples include:
- Millet-based snacks – Nutritious, climate-resilient crops that support sustainable farming.
- Cow dung products – Biodegradable idols, natural dhoops (incense), and organic fertilizers that reduce waste.
At WeAct, our entrepreneurs are leading the way with eco-conscious products, such as:
- Upcycling waste cloth into stylish bags and purses.
- Repurposing plastic waste into durable tote bags.
- Transforming temple flowers into fragrant dhoops and incense.
- Crafting biodegradable idols to reduce festival waste.
- Producing preservative-free, chemical-free food products for healthier consumption.
How WeAct Empowers Sustainable Businesses
We support rural women entrepreneurs in building businesses that protect the planet while generating income. Here’s how they’re making an impact:
- Food & Agro: From Farm to Table, Sustainably
- Organic, chemical-free farming.
- Value-added food products with zero preservatives.
- Handloom & Handicrafts: Weaving a Greener Future
- Upcycled fabric products.
- Eco-friendly dyes and materials.
- Household Supplies: Clean Living, Healthy Planet
- Natural cleaning products.
- Biodegradable alternatives to plastic.
At WeAct, under its five pillars we embraces sustainable growth and innovation, WeAct and its entrepreneurs prove that business success and environmental responsibility can go hand in hand.
The Data Behind the Movement
- 67% of Indian MSMEs are now digitally equipped, using tools like AI and cloud computing to scale sustainably.
- 21% of MSMEs use solar energy, cutting CO₂ emissions by 110 million tonnes/year.
- Women-led MSMEs in India have surged to 2.2 crore registrations on the Udyam Portal.
Yet, challenges remain:
- 84% of MSMEs struggle to see the value in tech investments.
- 56% lack technical skills for green transitions.
- 81% express concerns over data security
The main reason that WeAct’s digital training and government schemes are crucial for bridging gaps.
The Future Is Green, Inclusive & Led by Women
As we celebrate MSME Day 2025, let’s remember: Sustainability isn’t a trend, it’s the only way forward.
Every millet bar sold supports climate-smart farming.
Every handmade cotton dress preserves traditional crafts.
Every chemical-free soap reduces water pollution.
At WeAct, we’re proud to champion rural women who prove that profit and planet can go hand in hand.
Join the Movement!
- Support women-led MSMEs by choosing sustainable products.
- Share this story to inspire more green entrepreneurship.
Because when women thrive, businesses grow, and the Earth heals—that’s real sustainable innovation.