IL&FS Cluster Development Initiative Ltd (IL&FS Clusters) is a subsidiary of IL&FS Group, has been established for developing solutions for textile and apparel SMEs is planning to launch "Enterprise Development Services (EDS)", an online platform for bringing multiple SMEs together and link them with financing agencies, financial advisors, technology & marketing consultants, tax & legal advisors, etc.

In order to keep a continuous engagement with SMEs, the platform will be well equipped to provide up-to-date information and in-depth analysis on the sector including policy, markets, model project reports, training videos on entrepreneurship and basic subjects, etc which would be of interest to existing SMEs and aspiring entrepreneurs.

EDS shall help in addressing the challenges faced by SMEs by bringing the ecosystem at one place, IL&FS said in a circular to Tirupur Exporters Association (TEA). Through this platform, an SME would be able to access services as per its requirement, pick, choose and pay.

Currently, an individual who would like to set up an enterprise has to do a lot of running around for an existing enterprise looking for a specialist for improvement in efficiency does not know whom to hire, EDS shall assist in solving such issues as well so that SMEs can concentrate on their core business and depend on EDS for resolving any other difficulties for funding, linkages, value added services, etc.

IL & FS has proposed to initially launch this portal for textile & apparel sector and before designing and structuring their solution, they also wish to discuss with the industry to get proper feedback and inputs.

IL&FS help SMEs, as also large industries in setting up cluster based infrastructure projects like industrial parks and have been working with textile and apparel industry for past 10 years.