Dehradun is set to take centre stage in India’s small business ecosystem as it hosts the Make in India SME Regional Summit on March 20, bringing together entrepreneurs, policymakers, and industry leaders to chart a roadmap for strengthening micro, small, and medium enterprises in Uttarakhand.
The summit, being held in the state capital for the first time, comes at a time when the region is witnessing steady industrial growth. According to government data, Dehradun is home to more than 6,500 registered MSMEs, including over 5,000 micro enterprises, around 1,000 small units, and more than 40 medium-sized firms. These businesses are spread across sectors such as electronics, textiles, pharmaceuticals, food processing, IT, and tourism, contributing significantly to the state’s economy while generating local employment.
A growing hub for enterprise
Dehradun’s emergence as a business destination has been driven by its strategic location and improving infrastructure. Enhanced road and rail connectivity, along with a rapidly evolving digital ecosystem, have helped create a favourable environment for businesses to expand and invest.
Industrial clusters such as the Selaqui Industrial Area and the SIDCUL Industrial Estate have played a crucial role in attracting manufacturing units and supporting the growth of MSMEs. The region’s increasing focus on innovation, entrepreneurship and export-oriented industries, particularly in pharmaceuticals, nutraceuticals and agro-based sectors, has further strengthened its appeal among investors.
Summit to focus on practical challenges and solutions
The summit will revolve around the theme “Enterprise from the Himalayas: Unlocking MSME potential in Uttarakhand,” reflecting the state’s ambition to harness its industrial capabilities. It will begin with keynote and special addresses, followed by a series of discussions tackling core challenges faced by MSMEs.
A major panel discussion titled “Make in the mountains: Strengthening manufacturing MSMEs in Uttarakhand” will bring together key industry voices to deliberate on scaling manufacturing in a geographically challenging terrain. Another session will explore how financial institutions can accelerate growth under the theme of catalysing Make in India initiatives.
The programme will also examine the startup ecosystem through a focused discussion on building sustainable ventures, alongside conversations on insurance access and risk protection for MSMEs. The event will conclude with a leadership address aimed at providing strategic direction for the sector.
Building networks and future pathways
Beyond discussions, the summit is expected to serve as a critical networking platform, allowing local businesses to engage directly with industry leaders and policymakers. Organisers aim to foster collaboration, encourage knowledge-sharing, and create opportunities for partnerships that can drive long-term growth.
Supported by the Ministry of Micro, Small, and Medium Enterprises, the summit is part of a broader national series designed to strengthen India’s MSME ecosystem. Now in its third year, the initiative has expanded significantly, growing from a handful of cities in its inaugural edition to a planned presence across 20 cities this year.
As Dehradun prepares to host the gathering, expectations are high that the event will not only spotlight the region’s industrial potential but also deliver tangible outcomes for businesses seeking to scale in an increasingly competitive landscape.
