ISFA Celebrates World MSME Day 2025 with a Vision for Inclusive Growth Through Franchising

On the occasion of World MSME Day 2025, the Indian Small Business & Franchise Association (ISFA) joins hands with millions of entrepreneurs, startups, and policymakers around the globe to celebrate the critical role that Micro, Small, and Medium Enterprises (MSMEs) play in building inclusive, resilient, and sustainable economies.

MSMEs are the beating heart of India’s entrepreneurial spirit. They contribute nearly 30% to India’s GDP, account for over 45% of exports, and employ more than 200 million people, according to the latest government data. As we commemorate this important day, it is imperative to recognize the evolving ecosystem that empowers these enterprises—particularly franchising, which is fast becoming a powerful catalyst for growth and job creation in the MSME segment.

Franchising: The Growth Engine for MSMEs
The franchise model offers a unique blend of entrepreneurship and brand-backed stability. For thousands of MSMEs—especially in Tier II and Tier III cities—franchising has unlocked access to capital, talent, and established business systems. This model enables first-generation entrepreneurs to reduce the risk of failure while scaling operations quickly.
At ISFA, we have seen a surge in first-time entrepreneurs adopting franchising as a low-barrier entry point into competitive sectors such as food & beverage, education, health & wellness, retail, and home services. Franchising not only creates a ripple effect of job opportunities but also empowers local communities by nurturing enterprise at the grassroots level.

ISFA’s Commitment to MSMEs and Franchise Empowerment
As India positions itself as a $5 trillion economy, the success of MSMEs will be pivotal. At ISFA, our mission has been clear: to support, standardize, and scale franchise-based MSMEs through advocacy, training, mentorship, and industry collaborations. Over the past year, we have launched capacity-building programs, regional franchise expos, and investor connect forums to fuel MSME visibility and investment readiness.
This World MSME Day, we renew our commitment to:
• Policy Advocacy: Engaging with government stakeholders for regulatory reforms and incentives tailored to MSME franchising models.
• Skill Development: Enhancing entrepreneurial capabilities through certified training and workshops.
• Digital Enablement: Driving digital adoption to help small businesses compete in a tech-first marketplace.
• Women & Youth Entrepreneurship: Creating inclusive pathways for underrepresented groups in the franchise economy.

As we reflect on this year’s World MSME Day theme—“Empowering Small Businesses for a Sustainable Future”—it’s clear that franchising holds the key to building a more inclusive and resilient India. The time has come to reimagine MSMEs not just as small businesses, but as scalable engines of economic transformation.

At ISFA, we are committed to ensuring that every aspiring entrepreneur—regardless of background, gender, geography, or income—has a viable pathway to business success through franchising.

We invite policymakers, industry leaders, and ecosystem enablers to work with us in creating a future where every small business has the tools, support, and opportunity to grow big. On behalf of ISFA and its members, we salute the relentless drive of India's MSMEs. Let this World MSME Day serve as a reminder that when we empower small businesses, we unlock the future of India.