Hello Mumbai Start-up DeskÂ
On the occasion of World MSME Day, Hello Mumbai News had the privilege of conducting an exclusive interview with Dr. G. Rameshkumar, Chairman of The MSME Federation, one of India’s leading industry networks dedicated to promoting entrepreneurship, supporting MSMEs, and strengthening the startup ecosystem. The Federation plays a significant role in collaborating with the Government of India to foster innovation, business growth, and global opportunities for Indian entrepreneurs. In an exclusive conversation with Hello Mumbai News Editor Aleem Shaikh, Dr. G. Rameshkumar shared his vision, mission, and strategic roadmap for empowering MSMEs, nurturing startups, and enhancing India’s position as a global entrepreneurial hub. He also highlighted the Federation’s initiatives to connect businesses, encourage innovation, and contribute to the nation’s economic development through a vibrant and inclusive MSME ecosystem.
Hello Mumbai NewsÂ
What inspired you to establish The MSME Federation, and what is its core mission?
Dr G.Rameshkumar :
The MSME Federation ( TMF ) was established from a simple but powerful realization: while India has millions of entrepreneurs, startups, and MSMEs with great ideas and determination, many struggle to access the right guidance, finance, technology, market linkages, and trusted professional support. We at Ocean of Solutions ( SSLR Group ) witnessed these challenges firsthand over many years of working closely with MSMEs and realized that businesses often need an ecosystem, not just individual services.
This inspired me to establish The MSME Federation, MSME & Startup Manch, Startup Bharat Manch, as a collaborative national platform that connects entrepreneurs with experts, institutions, investors, banks, corporates, government schemes, and solution providers under one umbrella.
Our core mission is to empower entrepreneurs by providing end-to-end business support—from ideation and business registration to funding, technology, compliance, marketing, exports, insurance, skill development, and strategic mentoring. Through partnerships with banks, NBFCs, professionals, industry bodies, and government initiatives, The MSME Federation aims to make business growth simpler, faster, and more accessible.
Beyond business growth, TMF is committed to creating employment, strengthening the MSME ecosystem, promoting innovation, and contributing to India’s vision of becoming a global economic powerhouse. We believe that when entrepreneurs succeed, they create jobs, strengthen communities, and drive the nation’s inclusive economic development.
Hello Mumbai NewsÂ
On the occasion of World MSME Day, what message would you like to share with India’s MSME community?
Dr G.Rameshkumar
On the occasion of World MSME Day, I extend my heartfelt appreciation to every entrepreneur, startup founder, and MSME owner who contributes tirelessly to India’s economic growth. MSMEs are not just businesses—they are the backbone of our nation’s economy, generating employment, fostering innovation, and strengthening local communities.
My message is simple: Dream bigger, embrace technology, build strong governance, and never hesitate to seek support. Today’s business environment offers unprecedented opportunities through digital transformation, government initiatives, and collaborative ecosystems. Success belongs to those who continuously learn, adapt, and innovate.
At The MSME Federation ( TMF ), our mission is to ensure that no entrepreneur has to build alone. We are committed to connecting MSMEs with finance, technology, mentoring, market access, government schemes, and strategic partnerships so they can scale sustainably and compete globally.
Let us work together to build an Atmanirbhar Bharat where every MSME has the opportunity to grow, create employment, and contribute to making India a global economic leader.
Happy World MSME Day! Together, let’s empower entrepreneurs, strengthen MSMEs, and shape the future of India.
Hello Mumbai NewsÂ
MSMEs are considered the backbone of India’s economy. What are the biggest opportunities and challenges they face today?
Dr G.Rameshkumar
MSMEs are rightly called the backbone of India’s economy because they contribute significantly to GDP, exports, manufacturing, and employment. As India moves towards becoming a developed economy, MSMEs have unprecedented opportunities to scale and compete globally.
The biggest opportunities lie in digital transformation, Industry 4.0 technologies, e-commerce, export markets, the “Make in India” initiative, government incentives, and the growing demand for innovative products and services. With the right ecosystem, MSMEs can become globally competitive and create millions of new jobs.
However, they also face several critical challenges. Access to timely and affordable finance remains one of the biggest hurdles. Many MSMEs struggle with delayed payments, limited awareness of government schemes, regulatory compliance, technology adoption, skilled manpower, market access, and business mentoring. These challenges often prevent promising enterprises from reaching their full potential.
The way forward is to build stronger support ecosystems that integrate finance, technology, capacity building, market linkages, and strategic guidance. Collaboration between government, financial institutions, industry bodies, corporates, and ecosystem enablers is essential.
At TMF, we believe that every MSME deserves access to the right opportunities, resources, and expert support. When we empower MSMEs to grow sustainably, we strengthen India’s economy, generate employment, and accelerate the nation’s journey towards becoming a global economic powerhouse.
Hello Mumbai NewsÂ
How is The MSME Federation helping startups and MSMEs grow through networking, mentorship, and business opportunities?
Dr G.Rameshkumar
The MSME Federation ( TMF ) was created with the vision of building a collaborative ecosystem where startups, MSMEs, professionals, investors, corporates, financial institutions, and government stakeholders come together to create meaningful business opportunities.
At TMF, we believe that entrepreneurs don’t just need funding—they need the right ecosystem. We help startups and MSMEs by facilitating strategic networking with industry leaders, connecting them with experienced mentors, and enabling access to finance through banks, NBFCs, investors, and alternative funding partners. We also support businesses with technology solutions, compliance, insurance, branding, market expansion, and government schemes.
Our flagship initiative, “Solutions – MSMEs Ke Liye”, is designed to provide end-to-end business support by bringing together verified solution providers under one platform. Here, We Invite Every MSMEs who can Attend 1 hour Online FREE Session every Wednesday and seek their Business Solutions Support brief LIVE and have access to our Subject Matter Experts.
Through business networking events, knowledge sessions, expert consultations, and strategic partnerships, we help entrepreneurs learn, collaborate, and grow.
Our vision is to create one of India’s largest business ecosystems where entrepreneurs can find the right connections, trusted guidance, and growth opportunities at every stage of their journey. By empowering MSMEs and startups with access to resources and collaboration, TMF aims to contribute to employment generation, innovation, and India’s vision of becoming a global economic powerhouse.
Hello Mumbai NewsÂ
What role does digital transformation and artificial intelligence (AI) play in the future of MSMEs?
Dr G.Rameshkumar
Digital transformation and Artificial Intelligence (AI) are no longer optional—they are becoming essential for the future growth and competitiveness of MSMEs. Businesses that embrace technology today will be better positioned to scale, improve productivity, and compete in both domestic and global markets.
AI can help MSMEs automate routine tasks, improve customer service through intelligent chatbots, analyze business data for better decision-making, strengthen financial planning, optimize inventory, personalize marketing campaigns, and enhance operational efficiency. Cloud-based solutions and digital platforms also enable even small businesses to access enterprise-level tools at affordable costs.
However, technology alone is not enough. MSMEs need awareness, digital skills, mentorship, and access to affordable technology solutions to successfully adopt these innovations. Capacity building and handholding are critical to ensuring that digital transformation delivers real business outcomes.
At TMF, we encourage MSMEs to embrace digital transformation by connecting them with technology partners, AI-driven business solutions, digital marketing experts, financial technology platforms, and professional mentors. Our objective is to make advanced technology accessible and practical for every entrepreneur.
The future belongs to businesses that are agile, data-driven, and digitally empowered. By embracing AI responsibly and leveraging technology effectively, India’s MSMEs can enhance competitiveness, drive innovation, create employment, and play a pivotal role in achieving the vision of a developed and self-reliant India.
Hello Mumbai NewsÂ
How important are innovation and entrepreneurship in achieving the vision of Viksit Bharat 2047?
Dr G.Rameshkumar
Innovation and entrepreneurship are the driving forces behind the vision of Viksit Bharat 2047. A developed India cannot be built by government efforts alone—it requires millions of entrepreneurs who innovate, create businesses, generate employment, and solve real-world challenges.
Startups and MSMEs are the engines of this transformation. They contribute significantly to manufacturing, exports, technology adoption, rural development, and inclusive economic growth. Every successful enterprise not only creates wealth but also creates jobs, empowers communities, and strengthens India’s global competitiveness.
To achieve the vision of Viksit Bharat 2047, we must foster a culture of innovation, encourage risk-taking, simplify the ease of doing business, improve access to finance, promote research and technology adoption, and strengthen industry-academia collaboration. Equally important is building robust entrepreneurial ecosystems that provide mentorship, market access, digital enablement, and strategic guidance.
At TMF, our mission aligns with this national vision by empowering startups, MSMEs, professionals, and innovators through networking, funding facilitation, technology integration, mentorship, and business opportunities. We believe that when entrepreneurs are supported with the right ecosystem, they become catalysts for sustainable economic growth and social transformation.
My message is simple: Every entrepreneur is a nation builder. By nurturing innovation, encouraging entrepreneurship, and empowering MSMEs, we can collectively transform India into a globally competitive, inclusive, and prosperous nation by 2047.
To foster Entrepreneurship, we launched the “Akshya Patra – Ocean Ambassador Program” by The MSME Federation which is a prestigious initiative designed to empower dynamic individuals who are passionate about entrepreneurship, leadership, and community building.
As an Ocean Ambassador, they represent TMF in their Network or Region, acting as a bridge between aspiring entrepreneurs and valuable resources. This program has gained lot of popularity among Professionals, Youth, Emerging leaders, Retired Persons, Home-makers, Divyangjan, NGOs who want to expand their network, enhance their leadership skills, and contribute to the growth of India’s entrepreneurial ecosystem.
Hello Mumbai NewsÂ
What advice would you give to first-generation entrepreneurs who are planning to start their own businesses?
Dr G.Rameshkumar
My advice to first-generation entrepreneurs is simple: start with a purpose, solve a real problem, and stay committed to continuous learning. You do not need to come from a business family to build a successful enterprise. What matters most is your vision, resilience, integrity, and willingness to adapt.
Before launching your business, understand your customers, validate your idea, and build a sustainable business model. Focus on creating value rather than chasing quick profits. Manage your finances prudently, maintain strong governance, and embrace technology from day one. Don’t hesitate to seek guidance from mentors, industry experts, and experienced entrepreneurs—learning from others can save years of trial and error.
Failure is not the opposite of success; it is part of the entrepreneurial journey. Every setback is an opportunity to learn, improve, and emerge stronger. Stay patient, remain ethical, and build long-term relationships with customers, employees, partners, and investors.
At TMF, we believe that no entrepreneur should have to build alone. By leveraging the right ecosystem—networking, mentorship, funding support, technology, and strategic partnerships—first-generation entrepreneurs can overcome challenges and accelerate their growth.
My message to every aspiring entrepreneur is: Believe in yourself, dream big, start small if necessary, but never stop moving forward. Your ideas have the power to create businesses, generate employment, and contribute to building a stronger, self-reliant, and developed India.
Hello Mumbai NewsÂ
How can women entrepreneurs, youth, and rural startups benefit from TMF?
Dr G.Rameshkumar
At TMF, we firmly believe that inclusive entrepreneurship is the key to India’s sustainable economic growth. Women entrepreneurs, young innovators, and rural startups possess immense potential, and our mission is to ensure they receive the right opportunities, resources, and support to succeed.
TMF provides a collaborative ecosystem that connects entrepreneurs with mentors, industry experts, financial institutions, investors, technology partners, and government support systems. We facilitate access to business funding, market linkages, digital transformation, capacity building, compliance support, branding, insurance, and strategic business advisory.
For women entrepreneurs, we encourage leadership, financial inclusion, and enterprise development through mentorship and networking opportunities. For youth, we provide guidance to transform innovative ideas into scalable businesses by connecting them with experienced professionals and growth opportunities. For rural startups, we focus on bridging the gap between local innovation and national markets by enabling access to finance, technology, digital platforms, and business networks.
Our flagship initiative, “Solutions – MSMEs Ke Liye,” is designed to make end-to-end business support accessible across sectors and geographies, ensuring that entrepreneurs from every corner of India can participate in the nation’s growth story.
We have also launched
“TMF MSME Link” which is a flagship digital initiative of The MSME Federation designed to serve as a single-window business assistance platform for Startups, MSMEs, entrepreneurs, professionals, NGOs, and corporates.
The platform enables businesses to submit their requirements through a simple online form and get connected with verified experts and solution providers across multiple domains. Instead of approaching different agencies separately, entrepreneurs can access a comprehensive ecosystem through one platform.
Through TMF MSME Link, businesses can seek support for:
1. Business Loans, Working Capital, and Project Finance
2. Startup Funding and Investor Connect
3. Government Schemes and Subsidies
4. Company Registration, Legal and Compliance, Virtual CFO Services, IPO listing.
5. GST, Income Tax, and Accounting Services
6. Digital Marketing, Branding, and Technology Solutions
7. HR, Recruitment, and Skill Development
8 Export-Import and International Business.
9. Business Mentoring, Strategic Advisory, and Networking Opportunities
The objective of TMF MSME Link is to simplify access to business solutions, reduce the time and effort required to find reliable service providers, and ensure that every entrepreneur receives timely guidance and the right support for sustainable growth.
Our vision is simple: One Link. Unlimited Business Opportunities. By connecting entrepreneurs with finance, technology, expertise, and strategic partnerships, TMF MSME Link aims to become India’s trusted gateway for MSME growth and business success.
At TMF, MSMEs can Promote their Product & Services too absolutely FREE by getting Empanelled as Solution Provider / Execution Partner.
Our vision is simple: Every aspiring entrepreneur—regardless of gender, age, or location—should have an equal opportunity to build a successful and sustainable enterprise. By empowering women, youth, and rural innovators, we are strengthening the MSME ecosystem and contributing to the vision of Viksit Bharat 2047.
Hello Mumbai NewsÂ
What support do you expect from the Central and State Governments to strengthen India’s MSME ecosystem?
Dr G.Rameshkumar
The Government of India has introduced several progressive initiatives to support MSMEs, including easier access to credit, digitalisation, startup promotion, and infrastructure development. These efforts have created a strong foundation.
However, the irony is 99.9% of the MSMEs are ignorant and unaware about any of the Schemes and Subsidies both from Central Ministry & State Ministry..
Today, there is no mechanism of Correspondence from Ministry of MSME & Ministry of Corporate Affairs to send Detailed Information on all 4500+ Government Schemes & Subsidies launched via Email Communication, once the Entity as Proprietorship, Partnership, LLP or Private Limited Company for the benefit of Startups & MSMEs, which I have personally taken up with the Ministry, which is being taken up.
I strongly urge 10Cr + MSMEs and Aspiring Entrepreneurs to visit 3 informative Government Websites, that would help them know more about the Government Schemes, Subsidies & their Eligibility.
The Government of India has introduced several progressive initiatives to support MSMEs, including easier access to credit, digitalisation, startup promotion, and infrastructure development. These efforts have created a strong foundation. Going forward, greater collaboration between the government and industry stakeholders can further accelerate MSME growth.
Going forward, greater collaboration between the government and industry stakeholders can further accelerate MSME growth. We at TMF invite Collaboration with all the Chamber of Commerce, MSME Associations, Councils and Trade Bodies to support MSMEs
My expectations are centred around five key areas:
First, easier and faster access to finance. MSMEs need timely, affordable credit with simplified processes, quicker approvals, and wider adoption of digital lending.
Second, faster payment cycles. Timely payments from both government departments and large corporates are essential to improve MSMEs’ cash flow and business sustainability.
Third, digital and technology enablement. Greater support for AI adoption, automation, cybersecurity, Industry 4.0, and digital skill development will help MSMEs become globally competitive.
Fourth, market access and exports. More opportunities should be created for MSMEs to participate in government procurement, global supply chains, trade fairs, and export promotion programmes.
Fifth, entrepreneurship development. Stronger mentorship, incubation, skill development, and awareness of government schemes should reach entrepreneurs in Tier II, Tier III, and rural India, with special focus on women and youth entrepreneurs.
At The MSME Federation), we look forward to partnering with both the Central and State Governments to bridge the gap between policy and implementation. Through collaboration with government departments, financial institutions, industry bodies, academia, and private enterprises, we can build a stronger, more inclusive MSME ecosystem.
Together, we can empower millions of entrepreneurs, generate employment, foster innovation, and contribute meaningfully to the vision of Viksit Bharat 2047.
Hello Mumbai NewsÂ
Are there any upcoming initiatives, events, or expansion plans of The MSME Federation, that our viewers should know about?
Dr G.Rameshkumar
At The MSME Federation(TMF), MSME & Startup Manch (MSM) and Startup Bharat Manch (SBM) – A Global Initiative of Ocean of Solutions, www.oceanofsolutions.com, we have an exciting roadmap ahead focused on expanding our reach and deepening our impact across the MSME ecosystem.
In the coming months, we are launching a series of Statewise Entrepreneurship Summits and Networking events across Metros, Tier II and Tier III cities to bring opportunities closer to grassroots entrepreneurs. These events will focus on Advisory, Knowledge sharing, Mentorship, Funding access, and Market linkages and more specifically HANDHOLDING support with fulfillment of MSMEs Business Requirements.. ( Not Just Gyan )
We are also introducing Sector-specific conclaves in areas such as manufacturing, technology, agriculture, and women-led enterprises, aimed at addressing unique challenges and unlocking growth opportunities within each sector.
On the digital front, TMF is working on enhancing its online platform to provide entrepreneurs with easier access to resources, expert guidance, funding opportunities, and collaboration networks.
Additionally, we are expanding our mentorship and incubation programmes, connecting emerging entrepreneurs with experienced industry leaders, investors, and domain experts to accelerate their growth journey.
We are also actively exploring strategic partnerships with government bodies, financial institutions, and global organisations to create more structured support systems for MSMEs, including access to international markets.
Our vision is to build a strong, connected, and future-ready entrepreneurial ecosystem across India, ensuring that every aspiring entrepreneur—regardless of location—has the opportunity to grow and succeed.
Hello Mumbai NewsÂ
What is your vision for The MSME Federation over the next five years?
Dr G.Rameshkumar
At TMF, our five-year vision is to evolve into a nationwide catalyst for MSME growth by building a deeply connected, inclusive, and innovation-driven entrepreneurial ecosystem.
We aim to significantly expand our National presence through a robust network, hosting regular entrepreneurship summits, workshops, and networking forums across Tier II and Tier III cities. These initiatives will ensure that opportunities, knowledge, and resources reach entrepreneurs at the grassroots level.
Over the next five years, we will also scale our sector-focused initiatives by organizing specialized conclaves in key industries such as manufacturing, technology, agriculture, and women-led enterprises. These platforms will address sector-specific challenges while fostering collaboration, innovation, and growth.
Digitally, TMF will transform into a comprehensive online ecosystem offering seamless access to mentorship, funding opportunities, expert insights, learning resources, AI-powered business tools, and peer networks. Through TMF MSME Link and our integrated digital platforms, our goal is to create a one-stop ecosystem where entrepreneurs can connect with finance, technology, government schemes, strategic partners, and business solution providers with ease.
We also plan to strengthen our mentorship and incubation ecosystem by building a strong network of industry leaders, investors, Board Directors, domain experts, and successful entrepreneurs who can guide emerging ventures through every stage of their growth journey.
Strategic partnerships will remain central to our vision. We will collaborate closely with Central and State Governments, financial institutions, corporates, academic institutions, industry associations, and global organizations to create structured support systems, improve access to capital, facilitate market linkages, and enable global business opportunities.
Our long-term aspiration is to empower one million entrepreneurs and MSMEs by providing them with the right ecosystem to innovate, grow, and create employment.
We envision The MSME Federation, becoming India’s most trusted entrepreneurship platform—driving inclusive economic growth and making a meaningful contribution towards the vision of Viksit Bharat 2047.
Hello Mumbai NewsÂ
what is your message to young entrepreneurs and aspiring business leaders on World MSME Day?
Dr G.Rameshkumar
On this World MSME Day, my message to every young entrepreneur and aspiring business leader is: Believe in your vision, embrace innovation, and never stop learning.
You don’t need to come from a business family or have unlimited resources to build a successful enterprise. What you need is determination, integrity, resilience, and the courage to take the first step. Every successful entrepreneur started with an idea and a willingness to solve a real problem.
The future belongs to those who are adaptable, digitally empowered, and committed to continuous improvement. Embrace technology, including Artificial Intelligence, build strong networks, seek mentors, and focus on creating value rather than chasing short-term success. Remember, entrepreneurship is not just about building wealth—it’s about creating employment, solving societal challenges, and contributing to nation-building.
At The MSME Federation ( TMF ), we are committed to walking alongside entrepreneurs by providing access to mentorship, networking, finance, technology, and business opportunities. We believe that when entrepreneurs succeed, India succeeds.
As we move towards the vision of Viksit Bharat 2047, I encourage every young Indian to dream big, think globally, act ethically, and build enterprises that create lasting impact.
Happy World MSME Day! Together, let us build stronger MSMEs, empower entrepreneurs, generate employment, and create a more prosperous, innovative, and self-reliant India.
Dr.G.Rameshkumar
Chairman- The MSME Federation
SM: IIM-Ahmedabad
Global MSME & BFSI Strategist
(REX Karmaveer Chakra Awardee 2019- Bronze & 2025- Silver)
Recommended for Padma Shri 2027
WA: +91 7982218029
