Access to capital remains one of the most critical challenges for small and medium enterprises (SMEs) striving to scale and compete in today’s dynamic marketplace. Funding through capital markets, particularly Initial Public Offerings (IPOs) offers a strategic avenue for SMEs to raise equity, enhance credibility, improve visibility, and accelerate growth. In line with this, an Awareness Session on SME Funding and IPO Listing was successfully conducted on 06^th June 2025 at BCIC, Balasore, jointly organized by the National Stock Exchange (NSE), World Trade Center (WTC) Bhubaneswar, Affinity Global Capital Markets, Balasore Chamber of Industries & Commerce (BCIC), and the North Orissa Chamber of Commerce & Industry (NOCCI).

The session was designed to educate and engage local enterprises on the benefits and processes of accessing capital through public listing and other structured financial mechanisms. It brought together key industry leaders, financial experts, and entrepreneurs under one platform to share knowledge, insights, and success stories.

The session commenced with opening remarks by Mr. Sanjay Das, President of BCIC Balasore, who emphasized the pressing need for financial literacy among MSMEs and highlighted how market-linked funding can significantly boost their growth trajectory.

This was followed by a special address from Mr. P.K. Dave, President of NOCCI, who spoke on the critical role of regional industry clusters in India's economic growth and the opportunities that access to formal capital markets presents for these enterprises.

Mr. Avik Gupta, Senior Manager at the National Stock Exchange (NSE), presented an in-depth overview of the NSE SME platform, explaining the eligibility, compliance requirements and the procedural aspects of IPO listings for SMEs. His session also covered the long-term benefits of listing, including improved governance, investor confidence, and market reach.

Adding to the technical perspectives, CA Sanjay Bhalotia, Chairman of Affinity Global Capital Markets, delivered a detailed session on financial preparedness for IPOs, valuation approaches, and strategies to attract institutional and retail investors.

A highlight of the event was the address by Mr. Chandra Prakash Bhartia, Managing Director of Jagdamba Polymers Limited, who shared his entrepreneurial journey, including his insights on navigating funding challenges and leveraging capital markets for expansion. His real-world experience served as a powerful inspiration to attending business owners.

The event concluded with a Vote of Thanks by Ms. Nimeshika Natarajan, Assistant Director, WTC Bhubaneswar who acknowledged all partners, speakers, and participants. She reiterated WTC Bhubaneswar’s continued support to SMEs through capacity-building and market access initiatives.

Following the formal presentations, an engaging Q&A session was held, where participants had the opportunity to interact directly with the speakers. This interactive segment allowed MSME representatives to clarify their queries regarding IPO procedures, regulatory requirements, market timing, and investor expectations. The session reflected the enthusiasm and readiness of regional businesses to explore equity financing as a strategic growth path.

The session successfully raised awareness among regional MSMEs about structured funding options and the transformative potential of SME IPOs. It fostered productive dialogue between entrepreneurs and market experts and laid the groundwork for future partnerships and advisory support aimed at unlocking the financial potential of Odisha’s small businesses.

The event was held on Friday, 6^th June 2025 at Udyog Bhawan, BCIC, Balasore.