Small Ventures Count

Small and medium enterprises (SMEs) are said to be the cornerstones of a sustainable, inclusive and resilient economic development. Their contribution to Nepal’s economy cannot be overstated, accounting for over 20 per cent to national GDP. In addition to generating employment for some two million people, especially women, they also play a crucial role in women empowerment and economic stability. The country may not be best suited for sophisticated manufacturing at scale, given its modest population, size, minimal industrialisation, unavailability of matching workforce, among other challenges. Instead, nurturing SMEs is highly likely to pay off handsomely.