MSME Day 2025: 10 Indian Small Businesses That Are Creating Big Social Change

Every year, we recognize June 27 as MSME Day 2025, or Micro, Small, and Medium Enterprises Day. Although this sounds technical, these enterprises are quite the opposite—they are very human. They are being done by everyday Indians to solve the problems that everyday Indians face in very unique ways. 

At The United Indian, we are of the opinion, that  MSME Day 2025 can not just be a calendar event on the calendar but also a chance to recognize the dreamers and doers, the small business owners that turn problems into opportunities and ideas into impact.

Why MSMEs Matter More Than Ever

India has over 63 million MSMEs, which contribute around 30% to our GDP, generate nearly 45% of exports, and employ over 110 million people. But these numbers don’t tell the full story. Behind each business is a face, a family, and a ripple of social impact.

Whether it's tackling waste, reviving crafts, or supporting farmers, these enterprises are rewriting what business success means.

Key Contributions of Indian MSMEs:

10 Small Indian Businesses Making a Big Social Difference — And Why They Matter More Than Ever

MSME Day 2025 isn't just a date on the calendar—it's about celebrating people behind all the small businesses who are literally changing lives behind the scenes. These entrepreneurs noticed a need, took a leap of faith, and each day, took small steps to build something that mattered. Their companies are not just generating profits; they are creating a legacy with long-lasting social impact—whether that is systematically reducing waste, catalytic empowering rural communities, or making essential services more accessible. 

The 10 companies we have chosen to highlight, are not just household names. Many of them are rooted in their local communities with many of them hardly known outside their regions. But they are making important steps—solving real problems in practical ways and showing that sustainable, community-focused business models can work.

This is just a small selection of ventures that are showing how MSMEs can accelerate meaningful, long-lasting change, in ways that many larger companies have failed to capture.

So, this MSME Day 2025, we’re spotlighting 10 businesses that are balancing purpose and profitability. From clean tech and education to handlooms and farming, they reflect the true spirit of small business in India.

Each business on this list meets a few key markers:

• Clear social impact that benefits people or the planet

• Scalability or a model that can be replicated elsewhere

• Deep cultural or community connection, showing they’re built to last

1. RangSutra (Rajasthan)

RangSutra is a consortium of over 3,000 rural women artisans who bring history and modern retail together. They work with popular ethical brands like FabIndia, ensuring that their handwoven textiles are seen in both Indian and international markets. Each product is sold with the story of its maker; it's the story of hard-won persistence by their community.

Impact: Beyond sustainable incomes and preserving traditional skills, RangSutra has enabled hundreds of women to become shareholders in the company—giving them financial stake, confidence, and leadership roles.

2. Gegadyne Energy (Mumbai)

Gegadyne is disrupting India’s energy storage game by developing non-lithium, fast-charging batteries. These batteries are safer, more sustainable, and locally engineered—making them a strong alternative to imported tech. With patents in place and increasing EV adoption, the company is setting up for scale.

Impact: Cleaner cities through EV adoption, reduced pressure on critical mineral imports, and the growth of indigenous energy innovation.

3. Tamul Plates (Assam)

This eco-friendly startup produces biodegradable plates made from naturally fallen areca palm leaves. Located in some of Assam's poorest rural districts, Tamul not only produces compostable alternatives to plastic tableware, but also provides the critical livelihoods needed.

Impact: Reduction in single-use plastic, livelihood support for over 1,000 people, and stronger rural entrepreneurship.

4. Aarohana EcoSocial (Pune)

Aarohana reclaims plastic from urban areas and makes bright, durable handbags and accessories. Tribal women are hand-weaving on charkhas and looms, providing them income and partnerships while learning new skills.

Impact: 50+ women trained and employed, tonnes of waste diverted from landfills, and greater visibility for sustainable fashion.

5. Hasiru Dala Innovations (Bengaluru)

Hasiru Dala works at the grassroots, bringing dignity and formal recognition to thousands of informal waste workers. They provide training, identity cards, uniforms, and access to social services—all while helping manage city waste better.

Impact: More than 9,000 workers integrated into the formal economy, with increased incomes, social security, and community leadership roles.

6. Anthill Creations (Bengaluru)

Founded by IITians, this startup-turned-NGO turns construction scrap into colourful, safe, and interactive play areas. From rural villages to government schools, their low-cost playgrounds ensure children get physical activity and joy, especially where it’s often missing.

Impact: 350+ playgrounds built across 21 states, impacting 1,00,000+ children and promoting right-to-play as a basic necessity.

7. Goonj (Delhi)

A household name now, Goonj reuses urban waste—especially clothing and fabrics—to create resources like sanitary pads, school kits, and disaster relief supplies. Their work ensures dignity in giving and encourages people to think differently about waste.

Impact: Empowered rural communities, improved menstrual hygiene, and a unique circular economy approach to urban waste.

8. Farmizen (Pan-India)

Farmizen allows city residents to lease mini organic farm plots or subscribe to clean produce baskets from local farmers. Their app simplifies access, ensures traceability, and cuts out middlemen—boosting trust and farmer earnings.

Impact: 300% increase in farmer revenue in some regions, healthier produce for families, and growing awareness of sustainable food systems.

9. Kilkari (Bihar)

Kilkari runs joyful, play-based education centres for children aged 3–6 in underserved areas. Their low-cost model uses everyday materials and local teachers to introduce early learning without pressure.

Impact: Early school-readiness for thousands of children, stronger community ties to education, and rising female participation in education jobs.

10. Green The Map (Delhi)

Green The Map is where upcycling crosses with design. They upcycle industrial waste—tyre tubes, recycled seatbelts, fabric scraps—into unique, useful bags and wallets. The products are sold worldwide and crafted by marginalized artisans.

Impact: Over 30 tonnes of waste transformed into useful goods, 200+ artisans trained, and strong links built between design, sustainability, and livelihoods.

What Are the Trends Behind These Success Stories?

These MSMEs have some things in common that future entrepreneurs should take note of:

• Local-first thinking: Solutions start at the community level.

• Circular economy models: From waste to wealth is real.

• Women-led leadership: More and more ventures are being steered by women.

• Smart use of tech: Using apps, digital marketplaces, and AI tools to stay lean and scale faster.

Government Support: What’s Available for MSMEs?

There’s no shortage of schemes, but awareness is often low. Here are a few worth knowing about this MSME Day 2025:

Pro Tip: Use platforms likeUdyami Mitra to find mentors, funding options, and business resources.

How Can You Support MSMEs This MSME Day 2025?

• Buy local: Handmade, eco-friendly, or farm-direct products make a real difference.

• Share their stories: Awareness drives impact. Use your platform to highlight local gems.

• Contribute time or skills: Volunteer, mentor, or offer your expertise.

• Choose consciously: Each purchase can support a better India.

Final Thoughts

MSME Day 2025 is more than a milestone. It’s an opportunity to recognize that India's future is being constructed not just by large corporates, but by small businesses with immense heart. 

Whether it’s about job creation, addressing local challenges, or advancing sustainability, MSMEs are the unsung heroes of change.

Let’s not just celebrate them. Let’s support them.