By Jyotsna Bahirat, Managing Director, YEFi
Micro, Small and Medium Enterprises (MSMEs) are the backbone of India’s economy, contributing significantly to employment generation, innovation, and economic growth. However, in today’s rapidly evolving digital landscape, MSMEs face increasing challenges such as rising competition, changing customer expectations, workforce shortages, operational inefficiencies, and limited access to expert resources. These challenges are more prominent for grassroots and first-generation entrepreneurs. At YouthAid Entrepreneurs Federation of India we are trying to bridge this gap and provide various capacity building programs for MSMEs. YEFI provides access to a comprehensive support ecosystem that includes certification and national recognition, capacity-building workshops, seed capital linkages, digital and financial literacy training, mentorship from senior entrepreneurs, branding and marketing support, policy representation at state and national levels, a dedicated e-commerce platform for YEFI entrepreneurs, and Export–Import assistance for global market access. One such program is the National AI Enablement Architecture for MSMEs.
To remain competitive and sustainable in this era, MSMEs must embrace emerging technologies, and Artificial Intelligence (AI) has become one of the most important tools to transform business. AI enables businesses to automate routine tasks, improve decision-making, enhance customer engagement, optimize operations, and reduce costs. Large corporations have already begun leveraging AI to improve productivity and gain competitive advantages. Without adequate AI adoption, MSMEs risk falling behind in an increasingly technology-driven marketplace.
Despite recognizing the potential benefits, many MSMEs struggle to adopt AI due to limited technical knowledge, lack of skilled personnel, concerns about implementation costs, and uncertainty about practical business applications. This is where structured AI support becomes essential. Through training, mentorship, handholding, and access to easy-to-use AI tools, MSMEs can learn how to integrate AI into daily operations without requiring extensive technical expertise.
AI support helps MSMEs improve marketing effectiveness, strengthen financial management, streamline human resource functions, enhance customer service, and make data-driven business decisions. It also empowers entrepreneurs to focus more on innovation, growth, and market expansion rather than routine administrative work.
As India moves towards becoming a digital and innovation-led economy, AI adoption is no longer a luxury but a necessity. Supporting MSMEs with AI capabilities will not only strengthen individual enterprises but also boost productivity, create employment opportunities, and contribute to the country’s long-term economic growth and global competitiveness.
To cater for this, the National AI Enablement Architecture for MSMEs program is helpful for MSMEs. The said program is an online 60-day program, which has 25 hours of self-paced content on SIDH (Skill India Digital Hub). The best part of it is that the training does not involve any fees, and it is online. Two representatives from each MSME can be part of this program. The same two representatives have to complete the program. The only expectations from MSMEs are to apply the learnings in their enterprise and share the experience of using AI tools. The certification was provided to the participants after completion of all modules. The current program is open for entrepreneurs from Delhi, Maharashtra and Karnataka.
The present program is open for startup (2-5years of registration) ventures with a turnover of more than 50 lacs a year. MSMEs applying for this program need to have Udyam Registration. MSMEs want to improve efficiency, productivity, customer service, marketing, expert mentorships, and ongoing support for the successful integration of AI into the business. Unlike traditional training programmes, this initiative focuses on adoption and implementation. MSMEs will receive continuous support to help them apply AI tools effectively within their business environment. Upon successful completion, participants will receive NSQF certification, enhancing MSME professional credentials and demonstrating their readiness for the digital economy.
The programme will identify and recognize the top 50 AI-enabled MSMEs nationally after successful utilization of learning in the MSME. These enterprises will be showcased before government agencies, industry leaders, incubators, technology partners, and financial institutions, creating valuable opportunities for visibility and collaboration.
For enrolment in the program, please register on the given link here: https://shorturl.at/dQEd9.
For capacity building and entrepreneurship programs, please visit www.yefi.in.
