Transforming Small Businesses 2025

Phase 3: Enabling supply and demand ecosystem for AI 1 AI marketplace platform –Create a marketplace platform with demonstrations, case studies, cost calculators, user reviews and validation benchmarks –Integrate with ONDC Lead: MSME association in collaboration with technology vendors, professional service providers, implementation partners Outcomes: Streamlined platform for discovery of MSME-focused AI solutions 2 Identify and facilitate alternative funding models for AI investments –Identify government schemes for AI-focused credit lines or subsidized loans –Facilitate discussions with industry to channel corporate social responsibility (CSR) funds to support AI investments –Develop a funding toolkit for MSMEs Lead: Central or state MSME ministry Outcomes: Lower financial barriers and increased willingness to invest in AIPhase 4: Recognition and continuous improvement 1 Recognize SME AI pioneers –Evaluate AI pilot outcomes; select top AI adopters in the cluster for recognition –Publish case studies, transformation journey; conduct knowledge-sharing events Lead: Steering committee and MSME association Outcome: Publicity of AI success stories and inspiration for entire cluster 2 Continuous feedback and improvement –Gather stakeholder feedback to refine experience centre, sandbox and training programmes –Evaluate and update cluster AI acceleration plan at regular intervals Lead: Steering committee and MSME ministry Outcome: Up-to-date AI adoption programme reflecting cluster feedback and emerging AI technologies Transforming Small Businesses: An AI Playbook for India’s SMEs 48