Why in news?
On 1 December 2025 the Ministry of Micro, Small and Medium Enterprises (MSME) announced the Trade Enablement and Marketing (TEAM) Initiative, a sub‑scheme under the government’s RAMP programme. The TEAM scheme aims to connect micro and small enterprises to the Open Network for Digital Commerce (ONDC) platform by providing them with ready‑made online storefronts, integrated payment solutions and logistics support. The initiative has an outlay of ₹277.35 crore for 2024–2027 and plans to benefit five lakh MSEs, half of which are women‑owned.
Background
Indian micro, small and medium enterprises account for nearly 30 percent of GDP but only a tiny fraction sell goods or services online. Creating a digital presence requires technical expertise and investment that many small businesses cannot afford. The Raising and Accelerating MSME Performance (RAMP) programme, supported by the World Bank, seeks to modernise the sector through access to finance, technology and markets. The TEAM scheme builds on this by leveraging the government‑backed ONDC network, an open e‑commerce protocol designed to democratise digital commerce.
Features of the TEAM scheme
- Digital onboarding: Through a dedicated portal, MSMEs can register, create business profiles and upload product catalogues without needing to develop their own websites. The system matches them with seller network participants on ONDC who provide storefront templates and technology support.
- Integrated payments and logistics: Sellers receive plug‑and‑play payment solutions (including UPI and card payments) and access to logistics providers for delivery across India. This reduces the need for separate agreements with banks and couriers.
- Capacity building: Workshops and training programmes will teach MSME owners how to manage online storefronts, process orders, handle customer complaints and undertake digital marketing. The National Small Industries Corporation (NSIC) will implement the scheme.
- Target beneficiaries: The scheme aims to onboard five lakh micro and small enterprises, half of which are owned or led by women. Preference may be given to enterprises from remote and under‑served regions.
Significance
By lowering the entry barrier to digital commerce, the TEAM initiative can help small businesses reach wider markets, improve their revenues and formalise operations. Participating enterprises will build digital transaction histories, making it easier to access credit. In turn, consumers will benefit from greater choice and competitive pricing. The scheme also supports the government’s broader goal of building a digital public infrastructure that fosters inclusive growth.
Conclusion
The TEAM scheme illustrates how digital public goods like ONDC can empower small businesses when combined with government support. Success will depend on effective outreach, user‑friendly onboarding, reliable logistics and continuous training. With careful implementation, the initiative could transform the way India’s micro enterprises sell goods and services, bringing them into the mainstream of e‑commerce.
Source: PIB press release
