SMEDA’s global certification initiative continues apace

LAHORE: The SME Certification & International Accreditation Grant Program, launched by the Small and Medium Enterprises Development Authority (SMEDA) to help businesses become globally competitive by getting key international certifications, gains momentum with keen interest shown by entrepreneurs.   

The project  being undertaken in collaboration with the Punjab Information Technology Board (PITB) - is one of the key initiatives of SMEDA which aims to offer matching grants to SMEs across Pakistan to acquire international certifications and become more competitive with enhanced export potential and market linkages.    

“The government’s efforts to help small and medium businesses become globally competitive are beginning to show encouraging results, as entrepreneurs respond positively to the SME Certification & International Accreditation Grant Program,” according to officials overseeing the project.

Sharing statistics of the project, officials say SMEDA has already received 75 applications from SMEs from several parts of the country and 26 of these have been approved by a committee after scrutiny. “As many as 41 cases are being considered and evaluated,” say officials.  

The officials say SMEDA intends to offer grants for certifications to 100 SMEs from all over the country in the current fiscal year as part of government’s efforts to support the economic backbone by enabling entrepreneurs to earn credibility, compete at the global level and help spur growth.

The program is being implemented in a highly transparent manner, with applications processed strictly on a first-come, first-served basis, assure officials. The entire process, they say, is being carefully undertaken to facilitate eligible and enterprising SMEs. Women entrepreneurs and startups are especially encouraged to apply for the certification grants through a convenient and transparent process, add officials. 

They further say the project at hand reflects the government’s sincere commitment to support small and medium enterprises by removing financial and technical barriers. Through matching grants and expert guidance, SMEs are being helped to meet global quality, safety and compliance standards required for exports.

“Compliance to international and national standards promotes enterprise efficiency and competitiveness through international trade, protects consumers’ rights of health and safety and in turn leads to socioeconomic development of economy. Non-compliance to these requirements often results in loss of business,” says a document highlighting the project’s objectives.

Officials note that certification not only helps businesses access foreign markets but also strengthens internal systems, improves documentation and enhances trust with banks and buyers. “Once SMEs become certified, they are better positioned to access finance, join supply chains and expand operations,” they add.

The SMEs aspiring to participate in the program are encouraged to apply through the SMEDA website www.smeda.org or SME Registration Portal https.smerp.smeda.org. Registration is free and convenient, and it marks the beginning of a transition from informal entrepreneurship toward sustainable and profitable business growth, say officials.

SMEDA is trying to reach out to a maximum number of entrepreneurs through awareness sessions and digital campaigns, conclude officials.