SRM AP empowers rural entrepreneurs through digital marketing programme

The Paari School of Business (PSB), SRM University-AP, Amaravati, in collaboration with the National Institute for Micro, Small and Medium Enterprises (NiMSME), Hyderabad, successfully organised an Advanced Entrepreneurship Skill Development Programme on “Digital Marketing Tools and Analytics.” The initiative was aimed at equipping budding micro-entrepreneurs with practical digital skills to enhance their business growth and market reach.

Bringing together rural entrepreneurs and small business owners from communities around Guntur and Vijayawada, the programme focused on bridging the digital knowledge gap that often limits grassroots enterprises. Through a series of immersive and hands-on sessions, participants gained exposure to key aspects of digital marketing, including social media management, consumer behavior, content creation, and data-driven decision-making.

A major highlight of the programme was its emphasis on practical learning. Participants were trained to use smartphones as effective marketing tools, enabling them to create engaging visual and video content for their businesses. They also explored AI-powered techniques to optimise posts, improve audience engagement, and increase online visibility. Sessions on platform-specific strategies for WhatsApp Business, Instagram, Facebook, and YouTube helped participants design targeted and impactful communication approaches.

The programme also provided valuable real-world exposure through an industrial visit, allowing participants to understand how established enterprises integrate digital marketing into their operations. In addition, discussions on ethical, technical, and legal aspects of digital marketing ensured that participants are equipped to navigate the digital ecosystem responsibly.

The inaugural session had Prof Ch Satish Kumar , Vice Chancellor , SRM -AP as chief guest while the valedictory ceremony was attended by Dr Manisha Kumari from NiMSME, Prof. Ashay Kadam, Dean – Paari School of Business, Mr Venkateswaran G Ramamurthy, Director – Directorate of Executive Education and Professional Studies, along with faculty members of PSB. The speakers highlighted the importance of digital adoption, government support schemes, and professional networking in sustaining and scaling entrepreneurial ventures.

Prof Sourya Rongala was the convenor of the programme which concluded with certificate distribution and participants sharing their future action plans. Their enthusiastic participation reflected a strong commitment to leveraging digital platforms for business growth.

This initiative underscores SRM University-AP’s commitment to fostering inclusive development by empowering rural entrepreneurs with the knowledge and tools required to succeed in the digital economy.