Shepreneur Shakti: How Women Led MSMEs Are Growing In India?

In a resounding echo of empowerment and progress, as we approach Women's Day on March 8th, let's shine a spotlight on the flourishing landscape of women in business, particularly within the domain of Micro, Small, and Medium Enterprises (MSMEs).

Amidst the vibrant tapestry of entrepreneurship, women entreprenuers, aka Shepreneurs, are carving out their paths with remarkable fervor and determination. The surge of women entrepreneurs within the MSME sector, as revealed by data from the Ministry of Micro, Small, and Medium Enterprises (MSME), stands as a testament to their resilience and ingenuity.

As we celebrate the spirit of Women's Day Week, it's crucial to recognize the transformative role women play in driving economic growth and fostering inclusive development. The significant surge in the share of women entrepreneurs within the MSME sector underscores a profound shift towards gender inclusivity and empowerment in the entrepreneurial landscape.

According to data unveiled by Minister of State Bhanu Pratap Singh Verma during a written reply to the Rajya Sabha, the number of women-owned MSMEs registered on the government’s Udyam portal has reached a notable 1.17 crore, constituting a substantial 37.13% of the total 3.16 crore MSMEs registered since the portal's launch on July 1, 2020, post-Covid.

How many Women Led MSMEs in India?

Comparing the current scenario to figures disclosed during this year's monsoon session, as of August 1, 2023, women-owned MSMEs constituted only 19.43% of the total 2.10 crore units registered. This recent surge underscores a tangible shift in the landscape, showcasing a more than doubling of women's participation in the MSME sector.

Top States States Leading in Women Led MSMEs

The geographical distribution of this surge in women-led MSMEs is noteworthy. Leading the charge in women-MSME registrations are states such as West Bengal with 18.13 lakh registered units, followed closely by Maharashtra (13.38 lakh units), Tamil Nadu (9.90 lakh registrations), Bihar (8.82 lakh registrations), and more. This regional diversity reflects a widespread and inclusive growth pattern.

Udyog Aadhaar Memorandum (UAM) and Beyond

Delving into historical data shared by Minister Verma, under the Udyog Aadhaar Memorandum (UAM) portal, which was active from September 2015 to June 2020, women-led MSMEs represented 15.67% of the total UAM registrations during that period. The recent surge, therefore, represents a significant leap in the participation of women entrepreneurs within the MSME ecosystem.

Government Schemes for Women-Led MSMEs

From PMEGP to Mandatory Procurements

Several government schemes have played a pivotal role in fostering the growth of women-owned MSMEs. Notable initiatives include the Prime Minister’s Employment Generation Programme (PMEGP), Mahila Coir Yojana, increased guarantee coverage of credit to 85% for women entrepreneurs under CGTMSE, and the mandatory minimum 3% annual procurement by central enterprises and ministries/departments from women-owned micro and small enterprises.

This surge in women-owned MSMEs not only marks a noteworthy milestone but also underscores the positive impact of inclusive policies and targeted initiatives in reshaping the entrepreneurial landscape of the nation. As we celebrate this progress, the focus on sustaining and enhancing such initiatives remains crucial for fostering long-term economic growth and gender equality.

Here is a complete state wise list of Women Led MSMEs:

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