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Govt introduces Rs 277 crore initiative to help 5 lakh businesses join ONDC Network

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Vivek Vishwakarma
New Update
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The Ministry of Micro, Small, and Medium Enterprises on Tuesday introduced the MSME Trade Enablement and Marketing (TEAM) Initiative, a three-year program designed to help five lakh micro and small enterprises—half of which are women-led—embrace digital commerce.

With a budget of Rs 277.35 crore, the TEAM Initiative aims to integrate these businesses into the Open Network for Digital Commerce, or ONDC.

Creating a more inclusive digital ecosystem

As per the statement, the new program will create a more inclusive digital ecosystem by providing access to digital storefronts, integrated payment systems and logistics resources.

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According to the Ministry, reducing operational barriers and expanding market reach will be central to the scheme’s success. Beyond these tools, it emphasizes formalizing operations and establishing digital transaction histories, which will enhance the credibility and trust of participating MSMEs.

Focused on training and awareness

A significant part of the initiative involves training and awareness. More than 150 workshops will be held in Tier 2 and Tier 3 cities, focusing on MSME clusters with a particular emphasis on supporting women and enterprises led by those from Scheduled Castes and Scheduled Tribes.

The workshops will guide business owners through the process of joining the ONDC Network, setting up online product catalogues and capitalizing on the opportunities available in digital commerce. The Ministry has created a dedicated online portal to facilitate workshop registration and offer resources such as financing and grievance support.

Providing financial assistance to Seller Network Participants

Financial assistance will be available to participating seller network operators to help them create and manage online listings, ensuring that smaller enterprises have the support they need to thrive on the ONDC Network.

The government hopes this will allow businesses to tap into new customer bases and reinforce India’s broader push for digital transformation.

Aligning with India's vision of driving digital transformation

The initiative also aligns with India’s broader vision of driving digital transformation and improving the competitiveness of MSMEs.

By working in tandem with existing government programs like PM Vishwakarma and the Digital MSME scheme, the TEAM Initiative offers a cohesive and comprehensive approach to addressing the needs of small businesses in today’s rapidly evolving economy.

“The MSME TEAM Initiative is more than just a program — it’s an opportunity to empower small businesses with the tools and resources they need to thrive in the digital age,” said T. Koshy, managing director and CEO of ONDC.

“By connecting SMEs to the ONDC Network, we are creating a level playing field that enables them to scale, compete and succeed.”

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