Government Boosts GeM to Empower Women-Led and Small Enterprises

For decades, government procurement in India has largely been dominated by large corporations with the infrastructure and resources to navigate complex bidding processes. However, the tides are shifting, with the government now taking proactive steps to level the playing field for small businesses and women-led enterprises. The Government e-Marketplace (GeM), the country’s digital procurement portal, is undergoing a major transformation to become more inclusive, ensuring that micro and small enterprises (MSEs), women entrepreneurs, and self-help groups (SHGs) can seamlessly access opportunities that were once out of reach.

Recognizing the economic potential of these enterprises, the government has introduced a series of targeted initiatives aimed at removing barriers and creating a more enabling environment for their participation. With measures such as specialized marketplace filters, seller support programs, and integration with key industry bodies, GeM is emerging as a robust platform to support India’s small business ecosystem.

Empowering Women Entrepreneurs Through Visibility

Women entrepreneurs have long faced systemic hurdles in securing government contracts. Limited visibility, lack of resources, and a challenging registration process have often kept them from leveraging public procurement opportunities. To change this, GeM has introduced marketplace filters and product catalogue icons, making it easier for buyers to identify and purchase products offered by women-led enterprises. This move ensures that businesses owned by women gain a competitive edge in Direct Purchase and L1 procurement modes, significantly increasing their chances of securing orders.

To further enhance accessibility, GeM has launched eight “Vocal for Local” GeM Outlet Stores, dedicated spaces aimed at providing market linkages for women entrepreneurs, startups, SHGs, artisans, weavers, and Farmer Producer Organizations (FPOs) under the One District One Product (ODOP) initiative. These outlet stores serve as a showcase for locally-made products, helping small businesses tap into new markets and scale their operations.

Simplifying the Seller Registration Process

A major bottleneck for small enterprises has been the complex and time-consuming seller registration process. To address this, GeM has integrated its system with the Udyam MSME database, enabling a two-step auto-registration process that significantly reduces administrative burdens. This move is expected to benefit thousands of small businesses that previously found the registration process daunting.

Beyond simplifying registration, the government has strategically collaborated with key industry organizations to expand the outreach of GeM. Through Memorandums of Understanding (MoUs) with industry bodies such as Laghu Udyog Bharati, FICCI Ladies Organization (FLO), and the Self-Employed Women’s Association (SEWA), the platform is fostering a more inclusive procurement environment. These partnerships ensure that small and women-led businesses receive the necessary support, training, and visibility required to thrive.

Onboarding and Training: Ensuring No One Is Left Behind

Bringing new sellers onto the platform is just the first step; equipping them with the knowledge and skills to succeed is equally crucial. In a bid to ensure seamless onboarding, GeM has conducted 35 weekly seller onboarding workshops in collaboration with organizations such as Laghu Udyog Bharati, Amazon Saheli, National Rural Livelihood Mission (NRLM), Association of Lady Entrepreneurs of India (ALEAP), and FICCI.

These workshops are designed to educate sellers on navigating the GeM platform, bidding for contracts, and maximizing their reach within the government procurement ecosystem. Additionally, the platform is actively participating in industry exhibitions, trade fairs, roadshows, and outreach events organized by India Trade Promotion Organisation (ITPO) and India Exposition Mart Limited (IELM) to raise awareness and attract more small businesses.

Policy Backing: Ensuring Fair Play for Small Businesses

Beyond structural reforms, the government is ensuring that GeM remains in compliance with existing policies designed to protect small businesses. Under the Public Procurement Policy for Micro and Small Enterprises (MSEs) Order, 2012, GeM enforces provisions that mandate certain procurement targets from MSEs, reinforcing a fair and competitive marketplace.

Startups, particularly those recognized by the Department for Promotion of Industry and Internal Trade (DPIIT), have also been granted significant relaxations, including exemptions from Earnest Money Deposit (EMD), prior turnover requirements, and prior experience criteria. These exemptions remove financial and procedural roadblocks, enabling startups to compete with more established players.

A Stronger Future for Small and Women-Led Businesses

The government’s renewed focus on making GeM a powerhouse for small enterprises marks a significant step in India’s journey toward an inclusive economy. Minister of State for Commerce & Industry, Jitin Prasada, has reiterated the government’s commitment to strengthening the procurement ecosystem by continuously refining policies and introducing new measures to support small businesses.

As these initiatives gain momentum, women entrepreneurs, small business owners, and rural enterprises stand to gain unprecedented opportunities in the government procurement space. By ensuring a level playing field and making the process more accessible, the government is not just boosting businesses but also fostering job creation, economic independence, and sustainable growth for thousands across the country.

With each new step, GeM is proving that government procurement is no longer just for the big players—it is now a space where small businesses, startups, and women-led enterprises can thrive and make a lasting impact on India’s economy.