A ZED Facilitator is a professional who guides MSMEs (Micro, Small, and Medium Enterprises) through the MSME Sustainable (ZED) Certification Scheme introduced by the Government of India.

🔹 Who is a ZED Facilitator?

An empaneled consultant recognized by the Quality Council of India (QCI).

* Acts as a bridge between MSMEs and the ZED scheme.

* Helps MSMEs understand, prepare, and implement ZED requirements.

🔹 Role of a ZED Facilitator

1. Awareness & Guidance

* Explains the ZED scheme, benefits, and certification levels (Bronze, Silver, Gold, Diamond, Platinum).

2. Assessment Support

* Helps MSMEs fill out the ZED online self-assessment and application.

* Guides in uploading documents and evidence.

3. Gap Analysis

* Identifies gaps between current practices and ZED standards.

* Suggests improvements for Zero Defect (quality) and Zero Effect (environmental sustainability).

4. Implementation Assistance

* Advises MSMEs in adopting cleaner, more efficient, and sustainable practices.

5. Certification Preparation

Helps the enterprise get ready for desktop assessment and on-site assessment by QCI.

🔹 Benefits of Having a ZED Facilitator

* Saves time and reduces errors in the application process.

* Provides expert advice to meet compliance faster.

* Ensures higher chances of achieving a better certification level.

* Helps MSMEs avail subsidies, financial support, and market recognition linked with ZED certification.

👉 In short: A ZED Facilitator = Expert Guide + Consultant + Support System for MSMEs in their journey to get ZED certified.