The upcoming ET Business Growth Summit in Ahmedabad aims to empower MSMEs through policy support, infrastructure development, and technology-driven innovation.
New Delhi, India Jul 23, 2026 ALN: The next edition of the ET Business Growth Summit is set to take place in Ahmedabad, Gujarat, on July 31, 2026. This event will gather a diverse group of stakeholders, including founders, CXOs, investors, industry experts, and policymakers. The primary focus of the summit will be to explore how India’s micro, small, and medium enterprises (MSMEs) can cultivate resilience and enhance their global competitiveness through a combination of policy support, infrastructure development, and technology-led innovation.
Ahmedabad has been recognized for its vibrant industrial landscape and entrepreneurial spirit for decades. The city has a rich history of manufacturing that spans various sectors, such as textiles, engineering, pharmaceuticals, chemicals, and ceramics. This diverse industrial base has contributed to Ahmedabad's reputation as a hub for businesses that not only excel in manufacturing but also possess a strong desire for expansion and growth. However, as the global landscape evolves, the focus of business owners is shifting. They are now increasingly concerned with building organizations that are resilient, technology-enabled, and capable of competing on a global scale.
In this context, the summit will address several critical factors that contribute to the resilience and competitiveness of MSMEs. Access to efficient infrastructure, supportive policy frameworks, and practical innovation are becoming central to the discussions surrounding business growth. The transformation of MSMEs into competitive players in the global market necessitates a comprehensive approach that integrates these elements.
The agenda for the summit is structured around three fundamental pillars: policy, infrastructure, and innovation. This framework is based on the understanding that achieving sustainable growth for MSMEs cannot be accomplished through isolated interventions. Instead, it requires coordinated action across various domains, including regulatory reforms, enhanced connectivity, and the adoption of advanced technologies.
On the policy front, the summit will feature sessions that delve into how simplifying compliance processes, expediting approvals, improving access to credit, and creating a more predictable business environment can empower MSMEs. These measures are crucial for enabling small businesses to formalize their operations and scale up with greater confidence. By discussing these policy-related issues, the summit aims to provide actionable insights that can help policymakers create an environment conducive to MSME growth.
In terms of infrastructure, industry leaders are expected to share their insights on the importance of developing industrial corridors, logistics networks, and reliable warehousing solutions. Additionally, discussions will focus on the significance of power reliability and digital connectivity in enhancing productivity and reducing operational costs for small and medium enterprises (SMEs). The infrastructure that supports these businesses is a foundational element that can significantly influence their ability to compete effectively in both domestic and international markets.
The third pillar, innovation, is particularly vital in today’s rapidly changing business environment. Sessions dedicated to this theme will explore how MSMEs can leverage artificial intelligence (AI), automation, and various digital tools to strengthen their supply chains and improve product quality. The focus will be on practical innovations that can be effectively implemented by traditional manufacturing and service enterprises. By embracing these technologies, MSMEs can not only enhance their operational efficiency but also respond more adeptly to changing market demands.
Ahmedabad is uniquely positioned to host such an important discussion. The city embodies a blend of industrial legacy and forward-thinking ambition. As Gujarat continues to strengthen its position as a leader in manufacturing and exports, Ahmedabad is emerging as a model for MSMEs looking to transition from regional businesses to internationally competitive enterprises. The city’s infrastructure, skilled workforce, and access to markets make it an ideal setting for fostering discussions around growth and resilience.
Participation from business leaders and policymakers across various sectors is expected to create an environment ripe for fostering new partnerships and investment opportunities. The summit aims to develop strategies that will prepare enterprises for the challenges and opportunities that lie ahead in the next decade. By bringing together diverse perspectives, the event seeks to facilitate knowledge sharing and collaboration among stakeholders, ultimately driving the growth of MSMEs in India.
In conclusion, the ET Business Growth Summit represents a significant opportunity for stakeholders in the MSME sector to engage in meaningful dialogue and collaboration. As the business landscape continues to evolve, the insights and strategies developed during this summit could play a crucial role in shaping the future of MSMEs in India. The summit not only aims to address current challenges but also to inspire a new generation of entrepreneurs and business leaders to embrace resilience and innovation as they navigate the complexities of the global market.
To fully understand the implications of this summit, it is important to recognize the broader context within which MSMEs operate. In recent years, the Indian government has taken significant steps to support MSMEs, recognizing their critical role in job creation, development, and export promotion. Policies such as the Micro, Small and Medium Enterprises Development (MSMED) Act, the Startup India initiative, and various credit guarantee schemes have been introduced to facilitate growth and enhance the competitiveness of these enterprises.
Despite these initiatives, MSMEs continue to face numerous challenges, including limited access to finance, inadequate infrastructure, and a lack of skilled labor. According to various reports, MSMEs contribute to nearly 30% of India’s GDP and employ over 110 million people, yet they often struggle to secure the funding necessary for expansion and innovation. The ET Business Growth Summit aims to address these persistent issues, providing a platform for stakeholders to collaborate on solutions that can empower MSMEs and enhance their resilience.
The discussions at the summit will also consider the impact of global trends on MSMEs. As markets become increasingly interconnected, Indian MSMEs must adapt to international standards and practices. This requires not only technological advancements but also an understanding of global market dynamics, consumer preferences, and competitive strategies. The summit will serve as a forum for sharing insights on these topics, equipping MSMEs with the knowledge they need to thrive in a competitive global environment.
Furthermore, the COVID-19 pandemic has underscored the importance of resilience in business operations. Many MSMEs faced unprecedented challenges during the pandemic, with disruptions to supply chains, shifts in consumer behavior, and financial instability. The lessons learned during this period will be integral to the discussions at the summit, as participants explore strategies to build more resilient business models that can withstand future shocks.
As the summit approaches, anticipation is building among participants and stakeholders. The opportunity to engage with industry leaders, policymakers, and experts presents a unique chance for MSMEs to gain insights that can drive their growth and innovation. The collaborative nature of the summit is expected to foster new partnerships, ignite creative solutions, and ultimately contribute to a more robust MSME sector in India.
Join Ahmedabad’s biggest SME growth conversation and be part of the city’s next chapter of growth.
The ET Business Growth Summit - Ahmedabad Edition is supported by IDBI Bank as the Banking Partner and The New India Assurance Co. Ltd as the General (Non-Life) Insurance Partner.
To learn more about the latest developments in MSME & Small Business, stay updated with our exclusive reports and analyses on AiLensNews.
