New Delhi: Leading stock exchange BSE today said it has collaborated with the All India MSME Association (AIMA MSME) to encourage and promote the listing of MSMEs and startups. Through this pact, AIMA MSME will assist BSE in evaluating MSMEs and startups for listing on the exchange's SME platform while also sensitizing its investor network for investing in listed MSMEs, the exchange said in a statement.

Further, the two entities will host joint roadshows and events across the country to raise awareness among micro, small & medium enterprises (MSMEs) for listing on the exchange's SME segment.

"We are currently observing a surge of MSMEs and startups in the country and funding is one of the most vital elements. So, it is very important that we make them aware of the benefits of the equity funding route and this association

is key for us to be able to do so and also attract more investors to invest in the listed MSMEs and startups," Ajay Thakur, Head- BSE, SME, and Startup, said.

Avinash Dalal, President of AIMA MSME, said that this pact takes a step forward in assisting BSE in the evaluation and list ing of SMEs and startups.

"This further reinforces our aim and objective of growth, development, and progress of MSME sector and MSME entrepreneurs across the country," he added.

BSE became the first stock exchange to get approval from markets regulator SEBI and had launched its SME platform in March 2012.

So far, 353 companies listed on the BSE SME Platform have raised Rs 3,732 crore from the market, and the total market capitalization of such firms stood at Rs 40,716 crore. Out of the 353 companies, 122 have migrated to BSE Main Board. Source- PTI