Objectives of Maharashtra Europe Business Forum (MEBF)
The Maharashtra Europe Business Forum (MEBF) has been established to serve as a strategic platform connecting Maharashtra’s economic and industrial ecosystem with Europe’s innovation-driven markets and global diaspora networks. Headquartered in Frankfurt, the financial hub of Europe, MEBF focuses on promoting sustainable bilateral engagement through business collaboration, diaspora involvement, and policy-level facilitation. Below are the five core objectives guiding MEBF’s work:
1. Promoting Investment in Maharashtra
MEBF aims to position Maharashtra as the top destination for European investment in India. By organizing delegations, industry roundtables, and trade expos across Europe, MEBF provides European businesses direct access to Maharashtra’s fast-growing sectors — such as IT, electronics, manufacturing, green energy, logistics, and food processing. With the support of the Government of Maharashtra, including MIDC and the state industries department, MEBF also facilitates fast-track project support and regulatory guidance for interested investors.
2. Mobilizing the Maharashtrian Diaspora
Europe is home to a vibrant Maharashtrian diaspora, especially in countries like Germany, France, the Netherlands, and the UK. Many of these professionals hold leadership roles in corporate, research, and policy sectors. MEBF seeks to engage this diaspora as partners in promoting Maharashtra abroad. Through networking events, mentorship programs, sector-specific forums, and ambassador initiatives, MEBF activates their knowledge and connections for the state’s benefit — creating a structured diaspora contribution model.
3. Supporting Startups and Innovation Exchange
MEBF actively works to connect Maharashtra’s growing startup ecosystem with European innovation hubs. By collaborating with accelerators, VCs, and innovation agencies in Europe, the forum helps create soft-landing opportunities for startups on both sides. It supports pitch sessions, demo days, and incubation partnerships that allow early-stage ventures to explore funding, mentorship, and market access across borders. This also includes sector-specific cooperation in deep tech, mobility, AI, biotech, and clean energy.
4. Representing Maharashtra at European Trade Fairs
To increase visibility for Maharashtra in global business forums, MEBF represents the state at major European trade fairs and exhibitions such as Hannover Messe, Fruit Logistica, Medica, SIAL Paris, Smart City Expo Barcelona, and more. With support from industry bodies and government agencies, MEBF sets up Maharashtra-themed pavilions that showcase key sectors, government policies, and success stories. These trade fair participations open doors for B2B, B2G, and institutional partnerships.
5. Facilitating Bilateral Delegations and Policy Dialogues
MEBF serves as a coordinating body for high-level bilateral visits, business delegations, and policy dialogues between European institutions and the Government of Maharashtra. It supports the planning and execution of delegation visits from European companies to Maharashtra — organizing site visits, policy briefings, and matchmaking events. Likewise, MEBF enables Maharashtra’s leadership to engage with European government and private-sector decision-makers through strategic missions in Europe.