The International Society for Small and Medium Enterprises (ISSME) is a non-governmental, not-for-profit organization established in 2010 and based in New Delhi, India. As a leading global industry body for micro, small, and medium enterprises (SMEs), ISSME collaborates with members, affiliates, and partners worldwide to support over 358 million SMEs. It holds special Consultative/Observer Status
with various agencies in the United Nations (UN) system, including UN ECOSOC, UNESCAP, UNDESA, UNCTAD, WIPO, UNIDO, UNCITRAL, UN WOMEN, ITC, and ILO, among others. Additionally, ISSME actively cooperates with several intergovernmental and international organizations such as NGO CSW/NY, CoNGO, the NGO Committee for Social Development, WCO, OECD, ICSB, APCTT, AFD, UIA, CTA, and UNGC. The formation of ISSME was driven by a strong desire to create a global association for small businesses and their support institutions that fosters sustainable and inclusive growth without governmental influence. The organization aims to achieve this goal through numerous activities, including advocating for SMEs at relevant forums, disseminating knowledge and information, organizing customized training programs and conferences\, and providing networking opportunities. It also focuses on lobbying for pro-SME policies and programs and catalyzing international cooperation to reinforce SMEs. ISSME brings together policymakers, experts, academics, researchers, and SME entrepreneurs from around the world. This platform enables members to share their experiences, knowledge, and expertise across various fields. ISSME fosters collaboration between SME support institutions globally and the frameworks and programs established by governments and non-governmental organizations working to promote the sector. ISSME is a certified organization under ISO 9001:2015, which requires it to consistently provide services that meet the expectations of its members as well as applicable statutory and regulatory requirements. Furthermore, ISSME is authorized by the Government of India to issue non-preferential Certificates of Origin to Indian exporters. ISSME's members and affiliates include governments, small business administrations, SME promotional agencies, banks and financial institutions, industry associations, public sector undertakings, chambers of commerce, economic research institutions, universities, regional bodies, academic institutions, international non-governmental organizations, development organizations for SMEs, research and training institutions, small business development centers, science and technology parks, students, researchers, small businesses, and larger stakeholder organizations, all of which work to safeguard the interests of their respective sectors for SMEs. ISSME's affiliates are located worldwide and include Honorary Permanent Representatives and Senior Advisors. The ability to interact and connect through ISSME provides its members, affiliates, and partners with opportunities to enrich and expand their contributions to the global business community. These personal and professional connections across countries and cultures give ISSME members and affiliates a competitive advantage in the global marketplace. Supported by a network of experts in various fields, ISSME promotes the development of knowledge in all aspects of business theory and practice. ISSME focuses on effective strategies and policies that contribute to the sustained growth of SMEs. It facilitates international business cooperation among enterprises by aiding in technology transfer and promoting trade. Its functions include gathering and sharing information on policies and programs, identifying training centers for entrepreneurs and their personnel, providing marketing opportunities for small businesses by enabling their participation in global events, and conducting studies and research on various critical aspects for small businesses. Vision Statement:
To be acknowledged as one of the most representative and effective international non-governmental organizations promoting small and medium enterprises (SMEs). Mission Statement:
To create either directly or indirectly an enabling environment for the sustainable development of Micro, Small, and Medium Enterprises (MSMEs) worldwide.
