In a landmark move aimed at enhancing innovation and global competitiveness among India’s micro, small and medium enterprises (MSMEs), the Ministry of Micro, Small and Medium Enterprises has announced a strategic collaboration with the Danish Patent and Trademark Office (DKPTO). The partnership is designed to facilitate the transfer of intellectual property rights (IPR) and technological know-how to Indian MSMEs, enabling them to scale up their operations and improve product quality through the adoption of advanced foreign technologies.
The initiative comes as part of the Ministry’s broader mission to modernize the MSME sector, which contributes nearly 30% to India’s GDP and employs over 110 million people. By connecting Indian MSMEs with Danish innovators and patent holders, the partnership aims to bridge the technological gap and support the integration of global best practices in manufacturing and services.
Key Highlights of the Agreement
Under the collaboration, the DKPTO will provide access to a curated repository of patents and utility models that are available for transfer or licensing. These include innovations across green technology, renewable energy, food processing, biotechnology, and advanced manufacturing — sectors that are highly relevant to the Indian MSME ecosystem.
The Ministry of MSME, through its Intellectual Property Facilitation Centres (IPFCs), will act as a conduit between Danish patent holders and Indian enterprises, helping MSMEs identify relevant patents and negotiate licensing terms. Additionally, a series of capacity-building workshops, webinars, and matchmaking events will be organized to raise awareness among Indian entrepreneurs about the commercial value of IPR and the mechanics of technology transfer.
Government Support and Incentives
Union Minister for MSMEs, Mr. Narayan Rane, lauded the partnership, stating, “This collaboration will be a game-changer for our MSMEs. By gaining access to cutting-edge technology from Denmark, Indian enterprises can accelerate innovation, improve efficiency, and expand their footprint in international markets.”
The Government of India is also expected to offer financial incentives and advisory support to MSMEs that enter into licensing agreements as part of this initiative. These incentives may include subsidies for licensing fees, support for prototype development, and assistance in adapting foreign technologies to local conditions.
Strengthening India-Denmark Ties
The partnership further strengthens the bilateral ties between India and Denmark, particularly under the Green Strategic Partnership signed in 2020. Both countries have emphasized sustainable development and clean technology as key areas of cooperation, and this initiative reflects a shared commitment to fostering innovation-led growth.
Director General Sune Stampe Sørensen said, “We believe that this knowledge exchange will not only benefit Indian enterprises but also open new markets for Danish inventors.”
Conclusion
The MSME Ministry’s agreement with the Denmark Patent Office marks a significant milestone in India’s journey toward becoming a knowledge-driven economy. By unlocking access to global IPR assets, the initiative holds the potential to catalyze innovation, enhance productivity, and strengthen the global competitiveness of Indian MSMEs — turning them into engines of sustainable economic growth.
Industry experts have hailed the move as a step in the right direction, calling for similar collaborations with other innovation-driven economies to build a robust and resilient MSME sector for the future.