Summary SMEDA’s SME Certification & International Accreditation Grant Programme gains traction as over 125 applications are received, supporting businesses to achieve global standards and export readiness.
LAHORE (Web Desk) – The Small and Medium Enterprises Development Authority (SMEDA) has intensified efforts to help small and medium enterprises secure internationally recognised certifications through its flagship SME Certification & International Accreditation Grant Programme.
The initiative is drawing renewed attention as World Accreditation Day 2026 is being observed on June 9 under the theme “Innovation, Trust and Sustainability: The Power of Accreditation”. The global observance, established by the International Accreditation Forum and the International Laboratory Accreditation Cooperation, highlights the role of accreditation in strengthening trust in products, services and systems while supporting trade and sustainable growth.
SMEDA, in line with the government of Pakistan’s focus on strengthening the SME sector, is supporting businesses to meet global standards, improve competitiveness and enhance export potential. Through the programme, enterprises are being assisted in overcoming financial and procedural barriers that often delay international certification.
Officials said SMEDA is offering a 70 percent matching grant covering certification costs of up to Rs800,000, along with consultancy support of up to Rs200,000. The response, they added, has been strong, with applications received from businesses across diverse sectors and regions, reflecting growing awareness of compliance and quality standards.
According to officials overseeing the project, more than 125 applications have been received so far from SMEs across the country. After scrutiny, 36 applications have been approved by a committee, with most beneficiaries expected to receive support shortly.
The initiative places special emphasis on women-led enterprises, start-ups and businesses operating in underserved regions. Officials noted that the programme is being implemented through a transparent mechanism, with applications processed on a first-come, first-served basis, subject to eligibility requirements.
SMEDA has also stepped up awareness and outreach activities, including training sessions, media engagement and digital campaigns, aimed at highlighting the importance of certification and compliance for business growth. More than 1,100 entrepreneurs have already been facilitated through capacity-building initiatives conducted in collaboration with the National Compliance Centre (National Compliance Centre).
With renewed focus, SMEDA and NCC are preparing to launch additional 3 to 5-day training sessions in the coming weeks to further strengthen enterprise readiness for international certification.
To streamline access, SMEs can apply through the SME Registration Portal (SME Registration Portal) or via the official SMEDA website, enabling businesses to move towards formalisation and export readiness.
