In today’s competitive market landscape, marketing, branding, and packaging play a vital role in determining the success of Micro, Small, and Medium Enterprises (MSMEs). These elements are no longer optional—they are essential tools for enhancing product visibility, building customer trust, and capturing new markets, both domestic and global. However, for many rural and district-based enterprises, access to such knowledge and skills remains limited.

Recognizing the urgent need for district-level interventions to bridge this gap, World Trade Center Bhubaneswar continues its outreach to support MSMEs at the grassroots. As part of this initiative, WTC Bhubaneswar participated as a key resource partner in a district-level workshop held in Rayagada, Odisha, focused on “Marketing, Branding & Promotion for MSMEs” in the Food Processing, Handloom, and Handicrafts sectors.

Representing the Center, Ms. Nimeshika Natarajan, Assistant Director, and Ms. T. Sweta, Trade Promotion Officer, led an informative and engaging session tailored to the unique challenges faced by rural entrepreneurs. The session highlighted the importance of creating compelling brand identities, adopting effective packaging techniques, and leveraging digital platforms for promotion. It also offered actionable strategies to enhance market reach and build long-term customer loyalty.

The event was graced by Shri. Akshaya Kumar Khemundu, Chief Development Officer, Zilla Parishad, Rayagada, who joined as Guest of Honour and encouraged local entrepreneurs to leverage such opportunities for scaling up their businesses.

Shri. Bijaya Kumar Sahoo, General Manager, District Industries Centre (DIC), Rayagada, welcomed all the dignitaries and participants and proposed the vote of thanks, acknowledging the collective efforts to strengthen MSMEs at the district level.

The workshop was attended by local MSME owners, artisans, and district officials, all of whom actively participated in discussions and knowledge-sharing. The speakers used relatable case studies and practical examples to help participants understand how effective branding and packaging can unlock new opportunities and elevate their business potential.

This intervention is part of WTC Bhubaneswar’s broader mission to strengthen Odisha’s MSME ecosystem by reaching entrepreneurs at the district and grassroots level, offering them the tools, training, and confidence to compete in an evolving global economy.

WTC Bhubaneswar remains committed to fostering inclusive growth, rural entrepreneurship, and enhanced market access for MSMEs across Odisha.

The session was held on Tuesday, 17^th June 2025 at Rayagada, Odisha.