Overview: What Is the HIM MSME Fest 2026?
The HIM MSME Fest 2026 is a three-day festival (Jan 3–5) held at The Ridge in Shimla, organised by the Department of Industries, Himachal Pradesh. It aims to promote micro, small and medium enterprises (MSMEs), start-ups, artisans, and entrepreneurs, and to help them connect with markets, investments, and modern technologies.
Chief Minister Sukhvinder Singh Sukhu inaugurated the event on January 3, 2026, with key dignitaries, industry leaders, entrepreneurs and officials in attendance.
🚀 Vision & Purpose
🌱 Boost to Local Business & “Atmanirbhar Himachal”
CM Sukhu said the fest is not just an exhibition but a platform of opportunities for thousands of small entrepreneurs and start-ups across the state. The goal is to boost Himachal’s economy and build a more self-reliant (‘Atmanirbhar’) industrial landscape.
🌍 Promoting “Made in Himachal”
The festival stresses showcasing and marketing Himachal’s unique products — from handicrafts and traditional shawls to modern start-up innovations — under the “HIM Brand” on both national and international stages.
🏆 Key Highlights of the Fest
🏅 Startup Awards & Felicitations
The first day featured a Startup Awards ceremony recognising emerging and established entrepreneurs for their innovation, resilience and contribution to sustainable business growth.
🎨 Cultural Performances & Folk Art
- The festival spotlighted Himachal’s rich cultural heritage with folk music, dance and traditional performances.
- Artists from across the state showcased local arts and cultural expression, making the event lively and inclusive.
🧵 Guinness World Record – Largest Handmade Shawl Display
In a historic moment, organisers set a Guinness World Record by displaying around 4,000 handmade shawls at the Ridge Ground — crafted by local artisans — giving global recognition to Himachali handloom skills.
🎶 Music & Star Nights
The fest also includes star night performances to entertain attendees. Punjabi singer Garry Sandhu was among the music attractions planned for the evenings, blending entertainment with entrepreneurship.
💼 Business & Networking Activities
🤝 CEO Roundtable and Investor Meets
The fest hosts high-level discussions where CEOs, industry leaders and government officials engage in business-to-government (B2G) dialogue on investment opportunities, policy incentives, regulatory reforms, and collaboration prospects to invigorate the MSME ecosystem.
🛍 Buyer-Seller Meets & Market Access
Sessions like ODOP (One District One Product) reverse buyer–seller meets, e-commerce linkages and direct interactions with major platforms are designed to help local producers and entrepreneurs access broader markets and business opportunities.
📈 Why It Matters for Himachal Pradesh
✔ Economic diversification: The festival supports diversifying the hill state’s economy beyond tourism and agriculture by empowering small enterprises and start-ups.
✔ Skill and innovation upliftment: It encourages young innovators to build sustainable businesses and think beyond conventional jobs.
✔ Global exposure: By linking MSMEs with national and international markets, the fest helps local products gain recognition worldwide.
✔ Cultural celebration: It brings together economic progress and cultural heritage, reinforcing Himachal’s identity while promoting entrepreneurship.
📅 What’s Happening Over the Three Days
Day 1 – Jan 3
- Grand inauguration
- Startup awards and felicitation
- Cultural performances
- Guinness World Record display of shawls
Day 2 – Jan 4
- CEO and industry leadership roundtables
- E-commerce and buyer–seller sessions
- Networking with investors and policymakers
Day 3 – Jan 5
- Strategic MoUs and partnerships
- Ongoing cultural evenings and entertainment programs