There are millions of Micro Small and Medium Enterprises (MSMEs) in India, due to which the Indian economy grows, innovation comes, and employment is generated. And due to the introduction of Udyam Registration, the government is able to give formal identity to the business of MSMEs. But if you are thinking even bigger, like you want to create your global presence, then only Udyam Certificate will not work, you will also need ISO certification.
This guide will help you how you will be able to build a globally recognized business as an MSME brand with the help of both ISO certification and Udyam Registration.
Before moving forward, let us know about Udyam Registration and ISO Certification.
Udyam Registration is a portal launched by the government. On registering in it, Micro Small and Medium Enterprises get a Udyam Registration Certificate, and their MSMEs also get official recognition. Many benefits are available from it, like a subsidy loan, participation in the tender, etc.
If your business is registered on the Udyam Registration Portal, then we are in the right direction for you. Because of this, you will get the benefit of credibility and many government schemes, but if you want to create a global presence for your business, then what should you do?
Why is it so important to think globally?
There are many Indian MSMEs that export their products and services internationally and also compete with global brands. But to create a global presence, international trust is very much needed.
And ISO certification can help you in this, because of this global trust and quality assurance is built.
What does ISO certification mean?
The full form of ISO is the International Organization for Standardization, because of which products, services, and systems get global acceptance.
Like
- ISO 9001 focuses on quality management
- ISO 14001 focuses on environmental management
- ISO 45001 looks at the occupational health and safety of the product
- ISO 22000 is related to food safety
ISO certification tells the world that if any organization has this certificate, then that organization meets internal quality standards
Udyam plus ISO gives local strength and global trust.
Imagine if you are running a small manufacturing business in India and you have registered your business on the Udyam registration portal, and after that, your business also got an ISO 9001 certificate, then what will happen? Because of this, now you will not only get the support of the Government of India but also build the trust of international buyers.
This combo makes your brand even stronger.
Step-by-Step: From Udyam to ISO
Let’s break down how you can move from Udyam to ISO and boost your business reputation.
Step 1: First of all, complete your Udyam registration
First of all, register your MSME on the official Udyam registration portal by filling out the Udyam registration form.
You’ll need:
- Aadhaar number
- PAN
- Business details (name, type, activities, etc.)
Once the registration is complete, you will receive a certificate, which you can also download, due to which many doors will open for MSME benefits.
Step 2: Understand Your Industry Needs
Different industries may require different ISO standards.
For example:
- A toy manufacturer might need ISO 8124 (safety of toys)
- An IT service provider may go for ISO 27001 (information security)
- A food processing unit may require ISO 22000
Know what your market demands. Talk to clients, research competitors, and decide which ISO standard fits your business goals.
Step 3: Prepare for ISO Certification
Once you decide on the ISO standard:
- Review current processes
- Identify gaps in quality, safety, or management.
- Set up internal teams or hire a consultant.
Good documentation and a clear system are key to passing the audit.
Step 4: Choose a Certified ISO Body
ISO itself doesn’t issue certificates. Certification is done through authorized bodies like:
- TUV
- BSI
- SGS
- Bureau Veritas
- Intertek
Choose an accredited body to ensure your certificate is globally valid.
Step 5: Get Audited
The certification body will audit your business. They’ll check:
- Documentation
- Quality control
- Process management
- Customer feedback systems
If everything is in place, you’ll receive your ISO certificate.
Step 6: Promote Your Dual Status
Now that you have both Udyam and ISO certifications, use them to your advantage.
- Mention them on your website and marketing materials.
- Highlight them in client proposals.
- Use them to access export opportunities and global tenders.
This builds credibility, trust, and opens doors to new markets.
Benefits of Going from Udyam to ISO
Here’s what you get when you combine Udyam and ISO certifications:
- Higher Credibility
Clients trust businesses that follow global standards.
- International Recognition
ISO helps your business stand out in foreign markets.
- Better Quality Management
ISO systems make you more efficient and customer-focused.
- Access to Global Tenders
Many international clients require ISO certification as a basic requirement.
- Boost in Revenue
Better systems lead to better products, satisfied customers, and repeat orders.
- Compliance & Risk Reduction
ISO helps you meet legal requirements and avoid penalties.
Common Myths About ISO for MSMEs
Myth 1: ISO is only for big companies.
Fact: ISO standards are designed to scale. MSMEs can implement them too.
Myth 2: It’s too expensive.
Fact: ISO is an investment. It can lead to more profits, better contracts, and fewer customer complaints.
Myth 3: It’s too complex.
Fact: With the right consultant or training, ISO implementation is straightforward.
Real-World Example
Let’s say Rohan runs a small packaging unit in Gujarat.He received the Udyam Certificate in 2022 and after that he also got his ISO 9001 certificate in 2023. Due to this, his buyers are no longer limited to India but inquiries related to his business are also coming from Dubai and Europe. His credibility has increased even more and his business is getting a lot of profit.
Rohan’s journey proves that even a small business can make a global mark, with the right steps.
Final Thoughts
Udyam Registration gives you a strong base in India. ISO certification builds global trust. Together, they create a powerful brand identity for your MSME.
Don’t limit your business to just local success. Think bigger. Think global.
Udyam is your first step. ISO is your launchpad.
Start your journey today—and take your MSME to the world stage.
