Guwahati, Assam, February 20, 2026 – Walmart Vriddhi, through its program partner Ideas to Impact Foundation, recently signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) with the Department of Industries, Commerce and Public Enterprises, Government of Assam, to support the growth and development of the state’s micro, small, and medium enterprises (MSMEs).
The MoU marks a significant milestone in Walmart Vriddhi’s efforts to empower an additional 100,000 MSMEs in India by 2028. Through this partnership, MSMEs in Assam will benefit from capacity building, digital empowerment, and enhanced access to markets. Walmart Vriddhi will provide free-of-cost training and business tools to help MSMEs modernize, scale, and participate in eCommerce, including on platforms such as Flipkart. The Government of Assam will facilitate the program’s outreach across the state, further strengthening its MSME ecosystem.
The program will focus on key industries in Assam, including bamboo, cane, handloom, and food processing, with initial rollout in districts such as Kamrup, Sonitpur, Cachar, Dibrugarh, Tinsukia, Jorhat and others.
“MSMEs are a crucial pillar of India’s economy, driving local employment, innovation, and inclusive growth. This MoU represents a shared commitment to empower Assam’s MSME sector through enhanced access to markets, technology, and capacity-building support.” said Shri M. N. Dahal, IAS, Commissioner of Industries and Commerce, Department of Industries, Commerce and Public Enterprises, Government of Assam. “By leveraging focussed statewide institutional support through District Industries Centres, we will strengthen entrepreneurial capacity, enable sustainable growth, and expand the reach of Assam’s enterprises.”
“Assam’s entrepreneurial spirit and rich tradition of craftsmanship present a tremendous opportunity to drive inclusive economic growth. Through Walmart Vriddhi, we are committed to empowering local MSMEs with the skills, resources, and market access they need to thrive in today’s digital economy” said, Jason Fremstad, Senior Vice President, Supplier Development, Sourcing, Walmart International. “Our collaboration with the Government of Assam will help unlock new avenues for small businesses across the state—enabling them to scale, innovate, and compete.”
Walmart Vriddhi is a supplier development program designed to empower MSMEs in India to modernize, scale, and achieve their domestic and international ambitions. Launched in 2019, the program combines Walmart’s global supply chain expertise with Flipkart’s nationwide eCommerce reach, offering MSMEs access to free training, mentoring, and business advice. To date, Walmart Vriddhi has trained more than 70,000 MSMEs across India, supporting small businesses in enhancing productivity and expanding into new markets.
MSMEs interested in joining the Walmart Vriddhi program can register to unlock growth opportunities at: https://retaillink.login.wal-mart.com/. Sellers aiming to expand internationally through Walmart Marketplace can register at: https://www.walmartvriddhi.org/register-with-walmart-marketplace.
About Walmart
Walmart Inc. (Nasdaq: WMT) is a people-led, tech-powered omnichannel retailer helping people save money and live better — anytime and anywhere — in stores, online, and through their mobile devices. Each week, approximately 280 million customers and members visit more than 10,900 stores and numerous eCommerce websites in 19 countries. With fiscal year 2026 revenue of $713 billion, Walmart employs approximately 2.1 million associates worldwide. Walmart continues to be a leader in sustainability, corporate philanthropy, and employment opportunity. Additional information about Walmart can be found by visiting corporate.walmart.com, on Facebook at facebook.com/walmart, on X at x.com/walmart, and on LinkedIn at linkedin.com/company/Walmart.
About Ideas to Impact Foundation
Ideas to Impact (i2i) Foundation, implementation partner of Walmart Vriddhi, is a nonprofit committed to driving sustainable human development through innovative, community-focused solutions. i2i partners with governments, civil society, and corporates to create scalable programs that empower marginalized communities and support the Sustainable Development Goals. The Foundation’s work spans education, health, environment, and gender inclusion, focusing on building resilient, inclusive societies. Rooted in collaboration and transparency, i2i Foundation strives to create a lasting positive impact for a better future. Additional information about Ideas to Impact Foundation can be found by visiting: i2ifoundation.org/about-i2i-foundation
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