Entrepreneurship Development Institute of India (EDII) has been actively involved in research activities of various kinds. It has set up a Center for Research in Entrepreneurship Education and Development (CREED). Committed to promote research in the field, CREED aims at serving as a bridge between theory and practice in the field of Entrepreneurship. It also brings out a bi-annual Journal of Entrepreneurship, for sharing disseminating research findings among students and practitioners of entrepreneurship. It has a strong tradition of theoretical and applied, in-house and sponsored research.

Important Research Projects Completed by the Institute

Rural Entrepreneurship Development Action Research in three states viz; UP, Orissa & Karnataka: [1986]
EDII undertook a three year, three state experiments for Rural Entrepreneurship Development [RED], during 1986-90, with the support of the FORD foundation. Based on this, EDII has successfully developed a model to promote Self Employment among rural poor through a training programme titled “Micro-Enterprise Development Programmes”- MEDP. EDII has been conducting MEDPs in rural areas across the country and subsequently institutionalized this activity through a network of around 550 Non-Government Organizations (NGOs).

National Evaluation of Entrepreneurship Development Programmes: [1992] EDII conducted the impact study of Entrepreneurship Development Programmes (EDPs) sponsored by all India Financial Institutions.  The study covered all the major states, 28 EDP conducting organizations, 1250 trained potential entrepreneurs and about 250 Senior Government Officials, Bankers and other stake holders. EDII had to sub-contract the task of data collection to about 15 agencies and co-ordinate with them. The study was successfully completed within one year. This was the first of its kind and remains a highly quoted and referred study on the theme. The Sage Publications India Pvt. Ltd., New Delhi, has published it (1992).

Impact of New Economic Policy of SMEs: [1993]
The study covered the state of Gujarat, Karnataka and Orissa to understand the Impact of New Economic Policy on SMEs. The FNSt sponsored the project. It involved extensive interviews with the entrepreneurs in these states. It was the first field-based study of its kind on the subject that generated substantial interest among planners, policy makers and academicians alike.

Entrepreneurial Response to Training Intervention (1993)
An Impact Assessment Study of Performance Improvement Programmes (PIPs) for Small and Medium Enterprises, (Unpublished Report), Ahmedabad, Entrepreneurship Development Institute of India.

 

Impact of GATT on SMEs [1994]
On the lines of the above study, EDII conducted another study to assess the impact of GATT 1994 on SMEs. With a database of about 300 entrepreneurs, spread across Gujarat, Maharashtra, Karnataka, and Orissa and UP, the study was presented in a workshop on the theme at New Delhi (1994).

Evaluation of EDPs in North Eastern States: [1995]
On the lines of the national study, EDI was assigned to conduct the impact evaluation of EDPs in the NE States. With a sample size of about 200 trainees spread across the North-Eastern states was completed within six months. The findings of the study led to significant changes in the EDP implementation strategy in the North-East.

Dynamics of Industrial Cluster in India [1996]
EDII was entrusted with the coordination of four cluster studies covering Brass Part and Component Cluster, Jamnagar; Diesel Engine Cluster in Rajkot, Knitwear Cluster in Tiruppur; Sport Good Cluster, Meerut and Brassware Cluster in Moradabad. EDII conducted the study on Jamnagar and Rajkot Clusters. The two studies involved large collection of data from entrepreneurs. The study was sponsored by SIDBI. Doing Business in India: Issues and Implications [1997]: The study based on the opinion of expatriate entrepreneurs and NRIs who have settled down in India, highlights the problems and constraints faced by an expatriates while setting up and conducting business in India. The book is based on 50 case studies of the expatriate entrepreneurs and NRIs.

Impact of Fiscal Incentives on Industrialization in Gujarat [1998]
The Institute was entrusted by the Government of Gujarat to undertake the Impact assessment of their fiscal and financial incentive schemes on industrialization of Gujarat. The study covered a sample of about 225 entrepreneurs from Gujarat and another 83 entrepreneurs from the states of Madhya Pradesh, Maharashtra and Rajasthan. The study led to significant changes in the Industrial policy of the Government of Gujarat.

A Critical Analysis of Entrepreneurship Development Programmes of MCED [1998]
EDII was entrusted the evaluation of Maharashtra Centre for Entrepreneurship Development and EDPs conducted by it. The study is based on a sample of 305 trainees spread all over Maharashtra. The findings of the report were accepted by the MCED and significant changes were made not only in the implementation strategy but also in curriculum and organizational structure.

Micro-Enterprise Development in Himalayan Region: The Indian Experience: [1999]
The study was sponsored by ICIMOD, Kathmandu. Based on six organizations in Himalayan regions of India, the study brings out the impact and effectiveness of micro enterprise development programmes organized by the NGOs. The study has been published by the ICIMOD.

Role of Small Business Associations in the Changing Economic Environment [1999]
EDII has recently completed the study on the role of SBAs. Based on the data collected on 68 small industry associations, the study brings to the fore the strength, weaknesses, opportunities and threats confronting the SBAs. A workshop to share the findings is going to be organized shortly

Business Development Service Providers in India: A Study of Calcutta Metropolitan [2000]
DFID assigned the study on BDS providers to EDII. The study was carried out at Calcutta. Within a period of three days, data from 100 entrepreneurs operating in software, textiles, leather and iron castings were collected with the help of locally hired team of 10 investigators. The study was completed within three months and was accepted by DIFD. The study highlights the critical gaps in demand for and supply of business development services in Calcutta and suggests remedial measures.

A Study on Entry Barriers to Entrepreneurship [2001]
Perceived by Youth: EDII has just completed the Entry Barriers study, sponsored by the National Entrepreneurship Development Board. The study was based on 930 youths in their final year of education and 650 young employees with an experience of 2-3 years. The sample was spread over 4 states viz. Gujarat, Karnataka, Orissa and Uttar Pradesh. Three locations in each state were covered in the study. The study culminated into a major policy decision of the Ministry to set up Entrepreneurship and Business Development Centres (EBDCs) in 20 universities in the country.

Enterprise Development Strategy in Hilly and Mountain Regions [2001]
The study was conducted for International Centre for Integrated Mountain Development, Kathmandu. It provides guidelines to development enterprises in Hindu Kush Himalayan Region comprising of eight countries viz. Afghanistan, Bangladesh, Bhutan, China, India, Myanmar, Nepal and Pakistan. The study is being brought out as a publication by ICIMOD.

Dynamics of Small and Medium Enterprises: An International Perspective [2002]
The study was commissioned by SIDBI. It reviews the status, contributions and policies to promote small and medium enterprises in various countries and provides a comparative picture of SME sector across the globe.

SIDBI supported Rural Small Business Counsellors Creation [2002]
In its effort to further look at the success rate of the Entrepreneurs being trained under various programme by EDII, the institution carried out an Action Research to move away from subsidy based charity and welfare programme to sustainable micro-business establishment. The study considered the major challenges being encountered while setting up of an enterprise. This resulted into training of Business Counsellors so as to build in the professional approach and especially market orientation which goes a long way in providing need based inputs as and when demanded by the units. Also, NGOs institutionalized the role of Business Counsellors leading to awareness/information dissemination to first Generation entrepreneurs regarding setting up of businesses, sourcing of finance; understanding on market forces; managing small business and understanding regarding Government policy support for rural businesses.

Performance Improvement Programme – Kudumbshree, a successful mission of the Government of Kerala towards urban poverty alleviation [2002]
After an intensive assessment of the existing micro enterprise established under the above said initiative of the Government of Kerala,  EDII proposed to the Mission to carry out Performance Improvement Programme wherein subsequent to the launching of ventures either individually or in groups by women entrepreneurs, there comes a stage when the entrepreneurs need to consolidate their operations. The process of consolidation involves a close look into the current performance of the enterprise, its structural strengths and weaknesses and potential for change.  To facilitate such a process, EDII has already organized 93 Performance Improvement Programme sponsored by Kudumbshree covering 600 group enterprises and nearly 4995 entrepreneurs so far.

A 4 Year Action Research leading to Initiatives in Brass parts cluster at Jamnagar and Engineering Cluster at Rajkot, Government of Gujarat, Gandhinagar [2002/3]
The basic objectives of the above projects were to arrest decline of the clusters and ensure holistic development with respect to technological up gradation; productivity enhancement and strengthening of local business associations. The initial action research carried out in the clusters helped consolidation of interventions leading to substantial increase in productivity and technology adoption in the clusters.

Impact of WTO on Small and Medium Enterprises in India [2003]
Ministry of Small Scale Industry, Government of India, sponsored the study. India being a developing country was provided with a 10-year transformation period for implementation of most provisions of WTO up to 31^st December 2004. From 1^st January 2005, India was integrated into all provisions of WTO. This had severe implications on India Industry. This research was undertaken to understand the impact of WTO on the small and medium enterprises (SME) sector of Indian Industry as perceived by entrepreneurs.

Dynamics of Growth and Stagnation of Industrial Clusters in India – Emerging Issues and Policy Imperatives [2004]:  Ministry of Small Scale Industry, Government of India, sponsored the study. In India, as in most of the developing countries, the small‑scale industries sector constitutes an important segment of the industrial structure. But with the increasing globalization, Quality improvement and consequent technology up gradation will be the major source of competition. The major objective of the study was to understand the factors that lead to emergence growth and decay of industrial clusters.

Evaluation Study of Food Parks, Ministry of Food Processing Industries, [MFPI] Government of India, New Delhi [2004]
A diagnostic cum-evaluation study of MFPI approved Food Parks set up in different parts of the country over the past 8 years as a part of Infrastructure development for promoting the processed food sector in the country and in the process, prepare a revitalization plan for 10 selected food parks [out of a total of 45 Food parks established] was carried out by EDII. As a result of the study, the Ministry has a modified scheme incorporating our suggestions/ recommendations.

A Manual on Industrial Sector Development and Restructuring: Indian Experiences [2005]
The project sponsored by ILO focused on Sub Sector analysis to assess competitiveness of industries and suggests various interventions for making the identified Sub-Sector competitive. It works out the methodology to identify high potential sub-sectors and clusters within those sub-sectors for interventions of various kinds.

Identifying Sub Sectors/Clusters for SME Financing and Development [2005]
Recently, the Institute completed a World Bank/DFID and Small Industries Bank of India sponsored project to evolve methodology for identification of sub-sectors and clusters to augment provision of sustainable Business Development Services and Financing to SMEs. A ranking measure for identifying sub-sectors and clusters for appropriate interventions that would lead to employment creation and poverty alleviation through promotion and strengthening of SME sector was evolved in the study. Using the ranking index, 10 sub sectors and 60 clusters were identified for interventions of various kinds.

An Action Research in Unorganized Sector – Handloom: Conducting Diagnostic study cum Action Plan for 5 Clusters viz; Kurinjipadi [TN], Bijoynagar [Assam], Varanasi [UP], Sonepur [Orissa] and Madhavaram [AP] [2005]
The Study commissioned by O/o Development Commissioner- Handlooms had an objective to understand the major challenges being faced by the said clusters and to identify road map for a period of four years to focus on the sustainable institution, capacity building of primary stakeholders, Technological inputs and suitable convergence / networking with suitable line departments. Based on the recommendations and the Action plan duly validated by the primary stakeholders an implementation framework has been adopted under the Integrated Handloom Cluster Development Scheme of the O/o DC – HL.

An Action Research in Unorganized Sector – Khadi & Village Industries for KVIC under SFURTI [Scheme of Funds for Regeneration of Traditional Industries] [2005]
The action research carried out in 7 clusters [4 Khadi and 3 village Industries Clusters] in 4 states viz; Gujarat, Maharashtra, UP & Uttranchal aimed to bring out the major problems being perceived along with value chain by the primary stakeholders to step up the economic regeneration capacity of the enterprises. The study also recommended an action plan spread over for a period of five years. The said study has formed the basis of implementation being carried out under SFURTI scheme of KVIC, Ministry of Micro, Small and Medium Enterprises [MSME], Government of India, New Delhi.

An Action Research in Unorganized Sector – Coir Clusters for Coir Board under SFURTI scheme under MSME Ministry, Government of India, New Delhi [2005]
On the lines of the above stated study involving two states and one UT viz; Gujarat, Kerala and Andaman, Nicobar Islands helped to provide an action based analysis for the road map to be evolved under Coir Cluster being implemented by State Government wherein Coir Board is acting as a Nodal Agency.

Ministry of Child and Women Development Supported Evaluation study on woollen spinning project of Khadi Mandir, Bikaner [Rajasthan] [2006]
The study aimed at analyzing the efforts made towards facilitation of women’s organization and the support system evolved thereof during the implementation of the SUPPORT TO TRAINING AND EMPLOYMENT, PROGRAMME FOR WOMEN (STEP), under the Ministry of Women and Child Development. The objective of the study was to ascertain the level of backward and forward linkages as well as the support services provided during the course of interventions vis-à-vis the sustainability of the employment and to assess the impact of training interventions meant for skills up gradation vis-à-vis sustainability dimension of employment opportunity offered along with the management system evolved towards the processes/program/scheme as per the Guidelines.

Entrepreneurial Manifestations: Present Trends and Changing Landscape in an Inter-regional Context; Ministry of Small Scale Industries, Government of India, New Delhi [2006]
The study carried out under the umbrella of Global Entrepreneurship Monitor [GEM] in the states of Gujarat, Karnataka & Orissa aimed at understanding the relationship between entrepreneurial supply and economic development and the factors that encourage or hinder emergence and growth of Entrepreneurship in regional context.

GTZ supported study on Regional Baseline and SME development: Indore Region [2007]
The Study conducted by EDII was undertaken to facilitate formulation of the implementation strategy of GTZ – SIDBI interventions in Indore Region of Madhya Pradesh, under which a baseline study was conducted presenting an overview of economic activities in the region and relevant sectors / clusters / value chains therein. The study has been able to generate baseline data and consolidate information about the Indore Region.

GTZ supported study on Survey of Regional clusters – Value chain and BDS providers: Indore Region [2007]
The study pertained to understand the dynamics of major clusters – value chains operating in the Indore region of Madhya Pradesh to work out an appropriate strategy for promoting a healthy BDS market to facilitate emergence and growth of SMEs in the region. The study provided a road map for future interventions in order to promote a demand driven BDS market.

UNDP supported assessment of government training programme and institutions imparting skill training intended for informal sector workers in the states of Jharkhand & Orissa [2008]
A study commissioned by UNDP for the two states viz; Jharkhand & Orissa to understand the existing government efforts towards skills development and to find out how skills policy integrates with anticipated development and growth strategies/expectations of the state for addressing inclusiveness and in the process profile skills players (including their presence or absence) such as institutions, trainers, trainees for the growth plans of the state. The study helped the Government of India understand the role and responsibilities of Industrial Technical Training Institutes both under the Government and Non-Government set up and hence come up with an up gradation plan for 100 ITIs as Centre of Excellence.

Ministry of Micro Small and Medium Enterprises supported Evaluation study of  Vendor Development Programme [2008]
The study aimed at a comprehensive overall impact efficacy and scope for improvement of the Vendor Development Programme [VDP]. The study involved feedback and appraisal of 89 VDPs across 15 states. The study recommended measures to strengthen the programme.

UNDP supported Study on “Changing Sector Profile of Urban Economy and implications for Urban Poverty [2008]
The report using Human Development Framework provides a good insight on various issues of urban poverty such as basic services to urban poor, migration, urban economy and livelihoods, microfinance for urban poor, education and health, unorganized sector and livelihoods.

Ministry of Rural Development Supported Concurrent evaluation of Swarnajayanti Gram Swarozgar Yojana (SGSY) for two states viz. Gujarat & Maharashtra: [2008-09]
EDII was chosen as a Regional Evaluating Agency by the Ministry of Rural Development to undertake the concurrent evaluation of SGSY programme in two states viz; Gujarat and Maharashtra. The study involved review of departmental records and allocation & utilization of funds under the programme, evaluation of the performance of the programme on the basis of targets set and the achievements according to the norms and to identify the problems if any in the selection of the beneficiaries under the schemes. In all, it is also to bring out the overall impact on the beneficiaries – both tangible and intangible.

Government of Orissa, Mission Shakti, Action Research to identify Business opportunities for Rural Areas and provide handholding Support to SHGs: [2008]
The Action Research Commissioned by the Government of Orissa in the year 2008 aimed at identifying the business propositions possible in the rural areas of the state and also work out a comprehensive action plan for providing hand holding support to the SHGs initiating such economic activities.

SIDBI supported Research-Action study on Implementing Business Development Services in three MSME Cluster viz. Leather clusters – Shantiniketan, Kolkata & Chennai; Dyes and Chemical including packaging materials, Ahmedabad [2009]
The study currently ongoing is aimed at fostering BDS market Development, Strengthening Access of MSMEs to BDS; ways and means to make BDS providers in Clusters self –sustainable along with developing role models with strong demonstration effect. The study will help diagnose the problem, develop a prioritized action plan for implementation, monitoring and evaluation.

UNDP Supported Study on Impact of Financial Crisis on Poor and Marginalized Women and Men Workers in India [2009]: The study tries to gauge the impact of global financial crisis on informal sector workers engaged in auto-parts and components industry in Ludhiana. The study observed a mixed impact on the workers. While most of the micro and small enterprises were affected quite adversely, medium sized enterprises catering to the domestic market had coped well, with least displacement of workers. However, the medium sized OEM enterprises were worst hit as they heavily depended upon export demand that fell drastically. Consequently, workers in these enterprises also had to suffer adversely.