Prashant Sharma (Shimla):
The Queen of Hills, Shimla, is set to transcend its traditional identity of politics, tourism, and heritage
to emerge as a dynamic hub of entrepreneurship, innovation, and startup culture. The Department
of Industries, Government of Himachal Pradesh, is organizing HIM MSME Fest 2026 from 3rd to 5th
January 2026, an event being hailed as a historic turning point for Micro, Small and Medium
Enterprises (MSMEs) in the State.
More than a conventional trade exhibition, the Fest will serve as a transformative platform for
thousands of small entrepreneurs, artisans, women-led enterprises, and young startup founders to
realize their business aspirations. Through this initiative, products manufactured in Himachal
Pradesh will be showcased before leading national and international e-commerce platforms,
industry leaders, investors, and technology experts—opening pathways for local products to gain
global recognition.
Key highlights of HIM MSME Fest 2026 will include exhibitions of handicrafts, handloom products,
organic and agro-based goods, food processing units, the pharmaceutical sector, and innovation-
driven startups. In addition, expert-led sessions will equip entrepreneurs with practical insights into
funding mechanisms, brand building, digital marketing, e-commerce strategies, and export
opportunities.
Additional Chief Secretary (Industries), Shri R. D. Nazeem, stated that the Fest will prove to be a
milestone in directly connecting Himachal Pradesh’s MSME sector with national and international
markets. For three days, Shimla will resonate with the spirit of enterprise, innovation, and
opportunity. The event is expected to significantly boost economic activity and impart fresh
momentum to the State’s development trajectory.
