World Trade Center Bhubaneswar organized an insightful interactive session focused on SME funding and IPO listings, aimed at providing local businesses with the knowledge and resources needed to navigate the complex world of public offerings and equity funding. The session brought together industry experts, financial professionals, and local entrepreneurs, who gained valuable insights into the processes, challenges, and opportunities associated with SME funding and listing on the stock exchanges.

The event commenced with a warm welcome from Mr. Sanjeev Mahapatra, Honorary Convenor of WTC Bhubaneswar Smart City & Infrastructure Think Tank. He introduced the topic of SME funding and IPO listing and highlighted the importance of such sessions for local entrepreneurs. He stressed the significance of understanding the various funding mechanisms available to small and medium enterprises (SMEs) and the role of the stock market in supporting their growth. His address set the tone for a productive discussion and outlined the objectives of the session.

Mr. Avik Gupta, Senior Manager – Primary Markets Relationships at NSE, provided an in-depth overview of the National Stock Exchange and its role in facilitating IPO listings. He explained the listing process for SMEs, including the requirements and criteria set by the NSE. He discussed the various steps involved in preparing for an IPO, the documentation needed, and the benefits of being listed on the exchange. Mr. Gupta also shared insights into the eligibility criteria for SMEs looking to go public and how listing on the NSE can provide companies with access to a larger pool of investors, enhance their brand visibility, and support business growth. His presentation provided the attendees with a clear understanding of the intricacies involved in the IPO process and the steps SMEs must take to prepare for listing.

Mr. Sanjay Bhalotia, Chairman of Affinity Global, spoke about the Securities and Exchange Board of India (SEBI) regulations, the compliance requirements for IPO listings, and the cost structure involved. He elaborated on the legal and financial obligations that SMEs must fulfil when listing on the stock exchanges. Mr. Bhalotia highlighted the importance of adhering to SEBI guidelines to ensure smooth execution of an IPO and avoid any legal hurdles. He also discussed the cost structure of an IPO, including underwriting fees, legal charges, and other administrative costs. His talk was crucial for businesses to understand the financial and regulatory landscape of the IPO process and the importance of maintaining transparency and compliance.

Mr. Dhiraj Kochar, Chairman, MD & CEO of Vdeal System Ltd, shared his insights on IPO listing, discussing the challenges and strategic steps involved. He highlighted the importance of careful planning, regulatory compliance, and effective communication with stakeholders for a successful public listing.

After the presentations, the floor was opened for an interactive Q&A session, where attendees had the opportunity to pose questions to the speakers. Entrepreneurs and local business leaders engaged with the panellists, seeking advice on various aspects of SME funding and the IPO process. Topics such as funding alternatives for SMEs, the timing of an IPO, and the role of corporate governance in attracting investors were discussed. The Q&A session was highly interactive, with panellists offering practical advice and solutions tailored to the specific needs of the participants.

The session concluded with a vote of thanks by Ms. Nimeshika Natarajan, Assistant Director at WTC Bhubaneswar. Ms. Natarajan expressed her gratitude to the speakers for their valuable insights and to the participants for their engagement in the session. She emphasized the importance of continued learning and collaboration in driving the growth of SMEs in Odisha and beyond.

The interactive session on SME funding and IPO listing was a great success, offering local entrepreneurs and businesses valuable knowledge on how to access funding through the stock market and the processes involved in listing an SME on the exchange. The expert insights shared by Mr. Avik Gupta and Mr. Sanjay Bhalotia provided attendees with a deeper understanding of the opportunities and challenges involved in the IPO journey. The event also underscored the importance of regulatory compliance and the need for SMEs to be well-prepared for the rigorous requirements of listing.

WTC Bhubaneswar’s initiative in organizing such a session plays a vital role in empowering local businesses to explore growth opportunities and understand the various funding avenues available to them. The interactive format of the session fostered engagement and knowledge exchange, creating a collaborative atmosphere for the region's business community.

As WTC Bhubaneswar continues its mission to support and empower local businesses, events like these serve as a platform to bridge the knowledge gap and help businesses make informed decisions about their growth strategies, ultimately contributing to the economic development of the region.

The session was held on 30^th January 2024 at IDCO Conference Hall, IDCO Towers, Bhubaneswar.