In September 2023, at the G20 Summit held in New Delhi, a significant milestone was reached in entrepreneurship and economic development. The New Delhi Declaration, adopted during this pivotal summit, boldly proclaimed that start-ups and Micro, Small, and Medium Enterprises (MSMEs) are the “natural engines of growth.” This recognition represents a seismic shift in acknowledging these businesses’ pivotal role in fostering innovation, job creation, and socio-economic transformation.

The Declaration welcomed the formation of the Startup20 Engagement Group under India’s G20 presidency—a forum designed explicitly for G20 countries to exchange best practices and coordinate their efforts in support of start-ups and MSMEs. This initiative will continue under Brazil’s presidency in 2024, signifying the enduring commitment of the international community to nurture and harness the potential of these enterprises.

This newfound recognition is nothing short of revolutionary. It underscores that start-ups and MSMEs are not just peripheral players in the economic landscape but the mainstay of growth and development. It serves as a clarion call to policymakers worldwide to foster an environment conducive to their prosperity.

Here are some key aspects highlighting why start-ups and MSMEs are indeed the engines that power economic growth:

1. Job Creation: Start-ups and MSMEs are pivotal in tackling unemployment and stimulating job growth. They are often the first to create employment opportunities in burgeoning economies. For instance, in India, these businesses have been estimated to have generated over 700,000 jobs in recent years. The Declaration’s acknowledgement of this fact signals a commitment to addressing one of the most pressing global challenges.
2. Innovation: The spirit of invention is at the core of start-ups. These enterprises consistently push the boundaries, developing groundbreaking products and services that have the potential to disrupt traditional markets. Such innovation benefits the start-ups and contributes to increased productivity and, consequently, economic growth.
3. Economic Diversification: Over-reliance on a few key industries can pose significant financial risks. Start-ups and MSMEs play a crucial role in diversifying economic activities by establishing businesses across various sectors. This diversification can enhance an economy’s resilience and reduce vulnerability to economic shocks.
4. Promotion of Competition: Healthy competition is the cornerstone of vibrant economies. Start-ups and MSMEs inject competition into markets, leading to lower prices and higher-quality consumer goods and services. This benefits individuals and fosters an environment where businesses constantly strive to improve and innovate.

The New Delhi Declaration represents a significant leap forward in recognizing the potential of start-ups and MSMEs to drive economic growth. However, realizing that this recognition is merely the first step in a long journey is essential. Policymakers must now translate this recognition into concrete actions.

To capitalize on this momentum, governments must prioritize creating an enabling environment for start-ups and MSMEs to flourish. This includes simplifying regulatory procedures, providing access to affordable financing, and offering support for skills development and market access. Moreover, international collaboration and knowledge sharing, as facilitated by the Startup20 Engagement Group, are essential to ensuring that these businesses’ benefits are maximized globally.

In conclusion, the New Delhi Declaration marks a watershed moment in acknowledging start-ups and MSMEs’ vital role as growth engines. It calls upon governments worldwide to foster an environment where these businesses can thrive, thus contributing to innovation, job creation, economic diversification, and enhanced competition. As we move forward, let us remember that the true power of this Declaration lies in the actions it inspires, ensuring that start-ups and MSMEs continue to drive us toward a brighter economic future.