Digikul

India's traditional craft communities face numerous challenges, prominently among them are youth unemployment and urban migration. According to the International Labour Organization (ILO), India's youth unemployment rate stood at 22.8% in 2020, far exceeding the global average of 13.6%. This staggering figure highlights the urgent need to address the employment crisis among the youth.

In regions like Banaras, over 50% of young individuals have migrated to urban centers in search of job opportunities, as reported by the Centre for Monitoring Indian Economy (CMIE). This mass exodus not only threatens the sustainability of traditional crafts but also jeopardizes the cultural heritage deeply ingrained in these communities.

Despite accolades like the government award he received in 2019 for his exceptional craftsmanship, artisans like Pappu bhai continue to grapple with abysmal earnings. Pappu's narrative epitomizes a larger issue: while possessing remarkable skills, traditional artisans often struggle to access markets and contend with exploitative wage structures. This plight is further compounded by the absence of viable employment prospects for the younger generation, exemplified by Pappu's unemployed son, who remains adrift despite his family's artisanal legacy.

The economic disparities within traditional craft communities are stark, with artisans like Pappu bhai earning as little as $3-4 USD per day, according to the Ministry of Textiles, Government of India. Such meager earnings fail to afford adequate education or skill development opportunities for the younger generation, perpetuating the cycle of poverty and unemployment.

Conversely, digital platforms offer a ray of hope for artisans seeking alternative avenues for income generation. A Craft Council of India survey revealed that artisans leveraging online platforms like Instagram and Facebook experience a 30% increase in sales on average. However, many traditional artisans lack the digital literacy and entrepreneurial skills needed to capitalize on these opportunities.

At the heart of these communities lies a rich heritage of traditional crafts, threatened by declining interest among younger generations due to low wages and limited market access. Middlemen exacerbate the situation by exploiting artisans, paying paltry wages while reaping substantial profits, perpetuating the cycle of poverty and disenfranchisement.

Moreover, the absence of technological skills compounds the challenges faced by these communities, impeding their ability to adapt to the demands of the digital economy. Without access to digital platforms and online marketplaces, artisans remain reliant on intermediaries for marketing and sales, further diminishing their already meager incomes.

Additionally, youth migration to urban areas depletes the labor force within communities, disrupting social cohesion and eroding familial structures. As the younger generation seeks better prospects elsewhere, traditional knowledge and cultural practices are at risk of being lost, further undermining the fabric of these communities.

Furthermore, the lack of access to education and skill development perpetuates the cycle of poverty, entrapping families in intergenerational economic hardship. Without interventions to equip youth with the necessary skills and opportunities, these communities will continue to grapple with systemic challenges, hindering their ability to thrive in the modern world.

Digikul's approach to empowering youth within rural Indian communities adopts a hybrid model, harnessing the synergies between physical Digikul Centers and the innovative Digikul Learning Assessment and Management Platform (LAMP).

At the heart of this strategy lies LAMP, a versatile tool driven by AI that serves as a comprehensive Learning Management System (LMS) that  provide personalized learning experiences. Leveraging AI, LAMP assesses individual skills and goals, enabling youth to follow tailored learning paths that align with their aspirations.  LAMP offers a myriad of functionalities, including access to curated learning resources, government scheme matching, financial linkages with NBFCs and a dynamic Community Wall for networking and collaboration.

Physical Digikul Centers stand as dynamic hubs for mentorship, training, and community engagement, providing invaluable support services in a tangible, accessible setting. Here, youth can access resources, engage with mentors, and participate in skill training programs tailored to their needs. These centers serve as catalysts for skill development and entrepreneurship, fostering a nurturing environment for youth to thrive.

Integrated seamlessly with the physical centers, LAMP delivers personalized learning experiences customized to each individual's requirements. Through LAMP, youth can acquire essential digital skills such as basic computer operating, digital marketing, and ecommerce management along with expert sessions on entrepreneurship and enterprise building. These skills are pivotal for enhancing employability and income potential, particularly in today's digital landscape.

Furthermore, LAMP facilitates financial linkages, connecting youth with financial institutions to access credit and financial products crucial for entrepreneurial ventures. Its scheme matching functionality ensures that youth can identify and apply for relevant government programs, unlocking opportunities for economic empowerment.

The amalgamation of physical Digikul Centers and LAMP creates a robust support system for youth, blending the advantages of in-person guidance with the scalability and accessibility of digital technology. This hybrid approach ensures that youth have the resources and support necessary to excel in both traditional and digital marketplaces, empowering them to thrive and drive positive change within their communities.

Digikul's target audience comprises underserved youth populations, particularly those residing in rural Indian communities. These youths face various challenges, including limited access to quality education, employment opportunities, and economic empowerment. Our solution aims to directly impact their lives by providing access to essential digital skills training, entrepreneurship support, and market access.

The impact of Digikul's intervention extends beyond individual youth, positively influencing their communities and preserving cultural heritage. By equipping youth with in-demand digital skills, such as ecommerce and digital marketing, we empower them to promote products made within their communities to a broader audience. This not only enhances their own livelihoods but also supports hundreds of artisans and craftsmen, lifting communities out of poverty and preserving traditional crafts.

What sets Digikul apart is our holistic approach and emphasis on leveraging technology to create sustainable solutions. Unlike traditional programs, we go beyond skill development to provide comprehensive support through our innovative Digikul Learning Assessment and Management Platform (LAMP). LAMP offers personalized learning experiences, government scheme matching, and a dynamic online community for networking and collaboration.

Furthermore, our community-centric approach ensures that our solution is deeply rooted in the needs and aspirations of the communities we serve. By establishing Digikul Digital Labs as community hubs for skill development and entrepreneurship, we foster a supportive environment where youth can learn, innovate, and network within their communities.

Digikul's differentiation lies in our commitment to empowering underserved youth with the tools and resources they need to thrive in the digital age while preserving their cultural heritage and uplifting their communities.

At Digikul, our mission is deeply personal. We are driven by a shared commitment to empower underserved youth communities across India, catalyzing transformative change and unlocking new opportunities for economic prosperity. Our team comprises passionate individuals with diverse backgrounds, united by a common purpose and relentless pursuit of social impact.

our Mentors:

Vijay Mahajan, fondly known as the father of microfinance in India, brings over four decades of experience in entrepreneurship development and livelihood projects across rural India. As the founder of BASIX, B-ABLE, and Pradan, Vijay has spearheaded initiatives that have uplifted millions from poverty and empowered countless youth to pursue their dreams. His visionary leadership and tireless dedication serve as guiding light for our team, inspiring us to push the boundaries of what's possible.

Dr. Rakesh Malhotra, former UNDP State Head for Madhya Pradesh and Director of NABARD, is a trailblazer in rural livelihood development. His pivotal role in introducing the National Rural Livelihoods Mission has impacted over 30-40 crore females across India, revolutionizing access to economic opportunities for marginalized communities. Dr. Malhotra's expertise and strategic insights inform our approach, ensuring we design solutions that are effective and sustainable.

Dr. Somnath Ghosh, former Director of IIM Kashipur, brings invaluable academic rigor and practical experience to our team. With over two decades of research and teaching experience at premier business schools, Dr. Ghosh has been at the forefront of driving social change through entrepreneurship and community development. His mentorship enriches our work, guiding us to navigate complex challenges and seize opportunities for growth.

Our Team: 

Vivek Saxena, CEO, embodies the spirit of resilience and empathy. Touched by the stories of artisans during a study on Uttar Pradesh's One District One Product initiative, Vivek embarked on a personal mission to make a difference. After spending months immersing himself in rural communities, he co-founded Digikul to empower youth through digital skills and entrepreneurship. Vivek's hands-on approach and unwavering commitment have directly or Indirectly impacted over 30000 youths, igniting hope and transforming lives.

Sharmila Ronanki, Founder, is passionate for change in urban and rural marginalized communities. Inspired by her experiences working with marginalized women, Sharmila set out to create pathways to economic empowerment. Her urban skilling center empowered 300 women, laying the foundation for her work with Digikul. With a total impact of over 10,000 women across various livelihood domains, Sharmila's dedication and passion drive our efforts to create a more inclusive and equitable society.

Praveen Raj Singh, developer, represents the heart and soul of our team. Hailing from a rural community, Praveen overcame numerous challenges to pursue his passion for technology. His journey from self-learning to becoming an integral part of Digikul exemplifies our ethos of empowerment and inclusion. Praveen's technical expertise and firsthand understanding of rural realities enrich our solutions, ensuring they resonate with the communities we serve.

Together, our team is poised to make a lasting impact, leveraging our collective expertise, passion, and unwavering commitment to empower underserved youth communities and drive positive change across India.

Our solution, Digikul, is currently in the growth stage of development. Over the past months, we have conducted pilot projects in approximately 30 communities across rural India, directly impacting the lives of over 1800 youths and almost 1,00,000 other individuals and family members directly depending on them. These pilot initiatives allowed us to validate our approach, assess the effectiveness of our interventions, and identify key learnings from the field.

Now, armed with valuable insights and lessons learned from our pilot projects, we are ready to scale our operations and extend our reach to more communities and clusters. The pilot phase served as a crucial testing ground, enabling us to refine our strategies, optimize our processes, and strengthen our partnerships with local stakeholders.

As we transition into the growth phase, our focus is on expanding our impact and deepening our engagement with underserved youth populations. We are committed to leveraging our learnings from the pilot phase to implement scalable solutions that address the multifaceted challenges faced by rural communities across India.

With a robust foundation in place and a clear roadmap for expansion, we are confident in our ability to catalyze positive change and empower even more youths to realize their full potential. The growth phase represents a pivotal moment for Digikul as we strive to amplify our impact and create lasting opportunities for underserved youth communities nationwide.

We are applying to Solve because we see it as an invaluable opportunity to further our mission of empowering underserved youth through our Digikul solution. Having worked tirelessly to implement and refine our program, we believe Solve's platform can provide the necessary support and connections to take our impact to the next level.

Here are the key reasons why we are seeking support from Solve:

• Access to Technical Expertise: Solve's network of experts can offer valuable insights and guidance to enhance our programmatic approach, ensuring it remains effective and sustainable in diverse contexts.
• Community Engagement and Collaboration: Solve provides a vibrant ecosystem of like-minded entrepreneurs and social changemakers, offering invaluable opportunities for peer learning, collaboration, and support. By engaging with Solve's community, we aim to leverage collective wisdom and expertise to refine our theory of change, develop sustainable strategies, and navigate the challenges of scaling our hybrid solution.
• Funding Opportunities: While we have made significant progress with our solution, additional funding from organizations that share a similar vision would be valuable in scaling our operations, expanding our reach, and deepening our impact on the ground.

We believe that by partnering with Solve, we can overcome barriers, leverage opportunities, and accelerate the growth of Digikul. Together with Solve and its network, we are committed to creating lasting change, unlocking opportunities, and empowering underserved youth worldwide.

• Digikul, leverages advanced AI/ML algorithms to deliver personalized support and learning experiences to underserved youth. Through sophisticated data analysis and machine learning models, Digikul assesses individual skills, preferences, and goals to tailor learning paths and support services accordingly. For example, by analyzing user interactions and performance metrics within the Learning Management System (LMS), Digikul can identify areas of strength and improvement, providing targeted resources and interventions to optimize learning outcomes. This innovative use of AI/ML not only enhances the effectiveness of our solution but also ensures scalability by automating certain aspects of the support delivery process.
• Furthermore, Digikul's hybrid model combines digital platforms with physical centers strategically located within communities, enabling us to provide personalized support at scale. While our approach emphasizes hands-on mentorship and community engagement, technology plays a crucial role in facilitating remote access to resources, mentorship sessions, and peer collaboration. Through a cluster-based approach, we maximize efficiency by serving multiple communities within proximity, allowing us to allocate resources effectively and deliver tailored support to diverse groups of youth. Additionally, our platform's scalability is enhanced by its modular design, which allows for easy customization and adaptation to different contexts and community needs.
• Market Access and Economic Empowerment: By equipping youth with digital skills and entrepreneurship support, Digikul facilitates direct access to markets and economic opportunities. Through online platforms and e-commerce channels, participants can showcase their products and services to a global audience, bypassing traditional barriers and intermediaries. This not only increases their earning potential but also contributes to the growth of local economies and the broader digital ecosystem.
• In terms of novelty, Digikul stands out for its innovative features such as government scheme matching, financial linkages, and a collaborative online community. Our platform utilizes AI-driven algorithms to match youth with relevant government programs and financial institutions, streamlining access to critical resources and opportunities. This integrated approach not only simplifies the application process but also ensures that youth can maximize the benefits of available schemes and support services. Moreover, our collaborative ecosystem fosters peer learning, networking, and mentorship, creating a dynamic environment where youth can exchange ideas, seek advice, and support each other's growth and development.

Overall, Digikul's innovative use of technology, personalized approach to support delivery, and collaborative ecosystem make it a transformative solution for youth empowerment and skill development. By harnessing the power of innovation, we are redefining the landscape of youth empowerment, driving positive change, and creating opportunities for underserved communities to thrive in the digital age.

Digikul's theory of change encompasses not only the empowerment of underserved youth but also broader community development and preservation of cultural heritage. Our approach is designed to foster a supportive ecosystem for learning and economic development within communities while addressing various socio-economic challenges. 

Activities:

• Establishing Digikul Digital Labs to provide infrastructure and resources for digital skills training.
• Offering comprehensive training in various digital skills, entrepreneurship, and traditional crafts.
• Providing mentorship and guidance to participants in developing business plans, accessing markets, and preserving traditional crafts.
• Facilitating community engagement and collaboration to create a supportive learning environment.

Immediate Outputs:

• Participants acquire practical digital skills, entrepreneurship knowledge, and traditional craft techniques.
• Participants develop actionable business plans and strategies for economic empowerment and cultural preservation.
• Communities witness the emergence of role models and supportive networks conducive to learning and development.

Intermediate Outcomes:

• Increased Employment Opportunities: Participants secure jobs, start businesses, and contribute to community economic growth.
• Preservation of Cultural Heritage: Traditional crafts are revitalized, preserving cultural identity and heritage.
• Reduced Migration: Youth find opportunities within their communities, reducing the need for migration to urban areas.
• Improved Living Conditions: Economic empowerment leads to better living standards and infrastructure within communities.
• Enhanced Education and Skills: Access to digital skills and entrepreneurship training improves educational outcomes and enhances skill sets.

Longer-Term Outcomes:

• Economic Empowerment: Sustainable livelihoods are created, leading to improved financial well-being for individuals and communities.
• Poverty Reduction: Economic opportunities reduce poverty levels and enhance overall quality of life.
• Socioeconomic Development: The success of Digikul participants stimulates economic growth, social cohesion, and community resilience.
• Cultural Preservation: Traditional crafts thrive, contributing to cultural diversity and heritage preservation.

This theory of change is substantiated by a breadth of evidence:

• Research and Studies: Studies such as the International Labour Organization's "Youth Employment Program Impact Evaluation" and the World Bank's report on "Digital Entrepreneurship" provide empirical evidence of the positive impact of similar programs. 
• Achievement Motivation Training: Research on achievement motivation training underscores its role in fostering a growth mindset and enhancing individuals' initiative and persistence.
• Inspiring Encounters: Exposure to successful role models has been shown to significantly impact individuals' aspirations and self-efficacy, motivating them to pursue entrepreneurial endeavors.
• Previous Program Experience: Drawing from our experience in establishing over 1500 micro-enterprises, we have firsthand evidence of the transformative power of digital skills training and entrepreneurship support. Participant testimonials and success stories further validate the efficacy of our approach. 

Digikul's impact goals are multifaceted and aligned with our overarching mission of fostering economic prosperity, community development, and cultural preservation. We measure progress towards these goals through a combination of quantitative and qualitative indicators, ensuring a comprehensive understanding of our solution's impact.

Short Term Goals:

• Goal1 Economic Prosperity: To create sustainable livelihoods and income-generating opportunities for underserved youth and communities.
  • Measurement: Tracking the number of businesses started, jobs created, and income levels improved among participants. Additionally, monitoring revenue generation, profitability, and business growth over time.

• Goal 2 Community Development: To enhance community resilience, social cohesion, and infrastructure development.
• Goal 3 Digital Skills and Entrepreneurship: To equip youth with digital skills, entrepreneurship knowledge, and access to market opportunities.
  • Measurement: Evaluating proficiency in digital skills through assessments and project outcomes. Tracking the number of businesses launched, digital products/services created, and participation in entrepreneurship activities. Monitoring the utilization of digital platforms for marketing, sales, and networking purposes.

Long Term Goals:

• Goal 4 Cultural Preservation: To revitalize traditional crafts, preserve cultural heritage, and empower communities to celebrate their cultural identity.

• Goal 5 Environmental Impact: To promote sustainable practices and environmental stewardship within communities.

Progress towards these goals will be monitored regularly, with short-term objectives assessed every 6-8 months and long-term objectives evaluated over a period of 2-7 years, depending on the nature of the goal and its expected timeframe for achievement. This phased approach ensures that our impact goals are both achievable and measurable, guiding our efforts towards sustainable and lasting change within underserved youth communities.

Digikul harnesses a hybrid blend of digital technology and traditional knowledge systems to empower underserved youth and communities.  

1. Digital Learning Platform:
   1. We utilize a comprehensive digital learning platform equipped with interactive modules, tutorials, and assessments covering a wide range of digital skills and entrepreneurship topics. This platform enables participants to access high-quality training materials anytime, anywhere, fostering self-paced learning and skill development.

1. AI and Machine Learning Tools:
   1. Our solution integrates AI and machine learning algorithms to personalize learning experiences and provide adaptive support to participants. These tools analyze user data, track progress, and recommend tailored learning paths based on individual strengths, weaknesses, and preferences. By adapting to the unique needs of each participant, we optimize learning outcomes and maximize engagement.
   2. AI-Driven Scheme Matching and Financial Linkages: A key innovation of our solution is the integration of AI-driven algorithms for scheme matching and financial linkages. Leveraging advanced data analytics, our platform matches participants with relevant government schemes and financial resources based on their profiles and aspirations. This personalized approach streamlines the process of accessing financial support and entrepreneurial incentives, overcoming barriers to entry and maximizing opportunities for economic empowerment.

1. Blockchain Technology (Proposed):
   1. We are exploring the integration of blockchain technology to enhance transparency, security, and trust within our ecosystem. Through blockchain-based solutions, we aim to facilitate secure transactions, track supply chains, and validate the authenticity of products or services created by participants. This ensures fair compensation for artisans and fosters trust among buyers and sellers in online marketplaces.

1. Community Digital Labs:
   1. To complement our digital platform, Recognizing the lack of infrastructure in underserved communities, Digikul establishes physical Community Digital Labs to address this gap. Unlike traditional skill development programs delivered in classroom settings or through mobile platforms, these labs offer a comprehensive solution by providing access to essential infrastructure, including computers, internet connectivity, and digital fabrication tools. Moreover, the presence of mentors and a common resource pool enhances the learning experience, enabling participants to apply newly acquired skills, collaborate with peers, and seek guidance from experienced mentors. By creating a conducive environment for skill development, business incubation, and community interaction, these labs play a vital role in empowering youth, fostering entrepreneurship, and driving economic growth within target communities.

1. Traditional and Ancestral Knowledge Systems:
   1. In addition to digital technology, Digikul leverages traditional and ancestral knowledge systems to preserve cultural heritage, revitalize traditional crafts, and promote sustainable practices. Participants learn age-old techniques passed down through generations, integrating them with modern digital tools to create innovative products and solutions.

1. Mobile and SMS Technology:
   1. Recognizing the importance of accessibility, we leverage mobile and SMS technology to reach participants in remote and underserved areas. Mobile-based learning platforms, SMS reminders, and notifications enable seamless communication and engagement, ensuring that no one is left behind due to lack of access to digital devices or internet connectivity.

By leveraging this diverse array of technologies, Digikul empowers individuals and communities to thrive in the digital age while preserving cultural heritage, fostering economic prosperity, and promoting sustainable development. 

• Full Time: 4
• Part - Time: 3
• Contractual: 20

There are 27 team members in total. Full-time team consists of Vivek, Sharmila, Praveen, and Nishant, focusing on community outreach, program design, business development, and project management. Part-time members Adarsh, Faran, and Divya handle accounting, software upgrades, and HR activities. Additionally, there are 20 contractual members from partner organizations, activated as needed for training, mobilization, and workshops.

While our organization is in its first year of formal operation since registration and initiation of activities, individually, two of our team members have been deeply engaged in this project for over four years. This collective experience has provided us with valuable insights, learnings, and a mature understanding of the challenges and opportunities associated with our solution.

In our initiative, Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion (DEI) are foundational principles that inform every aspect of our work. We prioritize the active participation and empowerment of marginalized groups, including women, transgender individuals, and people with disabilities, ensuring that their unique needs and circumstances are addressed. 

• Inclusive Hiring Practices: We are committed to recruiting and retaining a diverse team of employees and contractors. Our workforce includes individuals with motor disabilities, women who are not permitted to work outside their homes, females reentering the workforce after career breaks, and youths from marginalized communities. Additionally, we actively seek to include transgender youths from the LGBT community in our programs and initiatives.
• Inclusive Learning Spaces: Our learning environments are thoughtfully designed to be inclusive and accessible to individuals of all backgrounds. We provide gender-neutral facilities and create safe spaces where participants can freely express themselves without fear of discrimination or judgment. Additionally, we recognize that cultural norms may restrict the mobility of certain groups, such as women who are not permitted to leave their homes for work. As such, we design our programs to accommodate these specific needs, offering flexible learning options and remote participation opportunities.
• Localized and Multilingual Content: We develop our curriculum and training materials with a focus on localization and multilingualism. By incorporating local languages, cultural references, and examples into our content, we ensure that it resonates with diverse communities and is accessible to all participants. This approach promotes inclusivity and ensures that our programs are relevant and relatable to the communities we serve, including those with limited access to formal education or resources.
• Tailored Support Services: We offer gender-neutral support services that are tailored to meet the specific needs of individuals. This may include providing assistance with childcare, arranging transportation for participants who are unable to travel independently, or offering virtual support options for those who are unable to attend in-person sessions. By addressing these barriers, we strive to create an environment where all participants feel supported and empowered to fully engage in the learning process.
• Empowerment and Leadership Development: We are committed to empowering marginalized groups through leadership development initiatives and capacity-building programs. By providing targeted training, mentorship, and networking opportunities, we help participants develop the skills and confidence needed to become leaders in their communities. Our goal is to cultivate a diverse pipeline of leaders who can advocate for their rights and drive positive change, regardless of their gender, identity, or ability.
• Intersectional Approach: We recognize that individuals' experiences are shaped by multiple intersecting factors, including gender, race, ethnicity, sexuality, disability, and socioeconomic status. Our approach is intentionally intersectional, meaning we consider these diverse identities and experiences when designing and implementing our programs. This ensures that our interventions are responsive, relevant, and inclusive of the full spectrum of human diversity.

By centering DEI principles in our work and offering tailored support services that address the specific needs of marginalized individuals, we create an inclusive and empowering environment where all participants can thrive. 

Our business model revolves around delivering impactful solutions to CSR organizations and government agencies, focusing on addressing socioeconomic challenges and fostering positive change in marginalized communities. Here's a detailed explanation of how our business model operates:

CSR Organizations:

• Why: CSR organizations are driven by social responsibility and the desire to make a positive impact on society. By investing in our programs, they fulfill their corporate social responsibility mandates and contribute to meaningful social change. Additionally, supporting initiatives that empower marginalized communities aligns with their organizational values and enhances their reputation as socially responsible entities.
• Model: CSR organizations typically provide funding through grants or sponsorships to support our initiatives. These funds cover program costs, including training materials, facilitators' fees, infrastructure setup, and operational expenses. Depending on the scope and duration of the project, CSR organizations may negotiate project-based budgets or allocate funds for specific program components.

Government Agencies:

• Why : Government agencies are responsible for addressing various social and economic challenges within their jurisdictions. By partnering with us, they can leverage our expertise, networks, and innovative solutions to achieve their development goals more effectively. Investing in our programs enables them to demonstrate tangible progress towards their objectives, such as youth empowerment, job creation, and community development.
• Model: Government agencies may allocate budgetary allocations or grant funding to support our projects. These funds cover program implementation costs, including staff salaries, training expenses, monitoring and evaluation activities, and administrative overheads. Contracts or agreements are typically established outlining the scope of work, deliverables, timelines, and financial arrangements.

Beneficiaries (Marginalized Youths and Communities):

• Why: Beneficiaries may not directly pay for our services, as our programs are designed to uplift and empower them economically and socially. However, they invest their time, effort, and commitment to participate in our training programs, workshops, and capacity-building initiatives. By actively engaging in skill development and entrepreneurship opportunities, they enhance their employability, income potential, and quality of life.
• Cost to Beneficiaries: While beneficiaries may not incur monetary costs, they invest their resources in terms of time and participation. They may contribute to program activities by attending training sessions, completing assignments, and actively participating in community initiatives. Additionally, beneficiaries may benefit indirectly from the economic opportunities and support services facilitated by our programs, leading to long-term socioeconomic advancement.

Additional Revenue Generation:

• Guidance and Mentorship: We offer ongoing support services to new enterprises beyond the setup phase, including business management, operations optimization, and market expansion, for this we might charge enterprises a monthly fee of INR 1000.
• Platform Rental or Subscription: Organizations can rent or subscribe to our Learning Assessment and Management Platform for effective training delivery and performance evaluation.

 Regarding revenue generation, while we are still exploring various avenues, we anticipate organizations paying a nominal fee for ongoing support services, such as continued guidance and mentorship. Additionally, we generate revenue through platform subscription fees. For instance, we have successfully rented our platform to organizations like the Rajiv Gandhi Foundation and Teesri Sarkaar Abhiyaan, charging fees for platform usage over specific periods.

Our financial sustainability plan entails a diversified approach to funding, incorporating multiple revenue streams to support our initiatives. These include:

Grants and Donations: Actively pursuing grants and donations from philanthropic organizations, foundations, and individuals who share our vision and mission. For instance, we recently secured a grant of 9 Lakh INR from the Rajiv Gandhi Foundation to conduct comprehensive research on livelihoods and employment opportunities in Uttar Pradesh. This research was conducted on the ground, involving experts in over 15 districts of Uttar Pradesh.

Service Contracts: Seeking service contracts with government agencies, NGOs, and other organizations to provide tailored services, training programs, and consulting. For example, we contracted with Teesri Sarkaar Abhiyan to develop training curriculum and deliver online training programs for 10,000 volunteers through our Learning Assessment and Management Platform (LAMP), charging 500 INR per candidate.

Product Sales: Generating revenue through the sale of educational materials, training resources, and digital tools designed to enhance learning and skill development among our target beneficiaries.

Investment Capital: Exploring opportunities to secure investment capital from impact investors, venture capitalists, or financial institutions interested in supporting innovative solutions with social impact. Currently, we are in discussions with impact investors like Mr. Jairam, a senior consultant at Infosys and a renowned impact investor.

Fee-Based Services: Offering fee-based services such as training workshops, consulting, and capacity-building programs to organizations and businesses aiming to enhance their social impact initiatives.

  Our success in securing funding and generating revenue is evident from the substantial support received from esteemed foundations and organizations. For instance, we raised 10 Million INR from a foundation in India, enabling us to engage with over 2000 youths and establish 1500+ enterprises, making a tangible impact in communities. Additionally, revenue was generated through the sale of our Platform Subscription to organizations like Teesari Sarkaar Abhiyan and the Rajiv Gandhi Foundation, while our consultancy and research services contributed over 2 million INR in revenue. These accomplishments demonstrate our financial sustainability and impact.