Grameen Foundation for Social Impact has teamed up with the Open Network for Digital Commerce (ONDC) to drive socio-economic development and digital inclusion. This collaboration focuses on supporting Farmer Producer Organizations (FPOs), nano, micro, small, and medium enterprises (NMSMEs), Self Help Groups (SHGs), women entrepreneurs, and start-ups through digital solutions.
Goals of the Initiative
The main goal of this partnership is to improve the quality of life for the poor, especially women. By promoting financial inclusion, digital literacy, and entrepreneurship, the initiative aims to help these groups thrive in the digital economy.
Leadership Comments
Both organizations are committed to democratizing the digital economy. Bharati Joshi, Interim CEO of Grameen Foundation for Social Impact, emphasized Grameen’s global vision to end poverty. She said, “Globally, Grameen aims to put poverty in museums. We lead with gender and transform through technology. We believe in investing in the power of the poor, especially women, so they can ensure a quality life for themselves and their families. We see the ONDC Network as a natural collaborator in bridging the gap in information and market access and blurring digital boundaries for the last mile.”
Shireesh Joshi, Chief Business Officer of ONDC, added, “The ONDC Network is committed to fostering an inclusive digital ecosystem that provides equal opportunities for businesses of all sizes and backgrounds. By breaking down barriers, we are empowering diverse entities, from nano enterprises to women entrepreneurs, to thrive in the digital economy. Together with the Grameen Foundation for Social Impact, we are looking forward to democratizing the digital economy and ensuring that its transformative power reaches every corner of our society.”
What Does the Grameen Foundation Do?
Grameen Foundation has been a leader in helping the poor, especially women, overcome poverty and hunger. Their programs focus on entrepreneurship, digital literacy, and financial inclusion. Recently, Grameen has been working to improve the business correspondents who are essential for financial inclusion at the last mile.
Collaboration with ONDC
The partnership with ONDC will enhance the onboarding process for digitally excluded groups, making it efficient and seamless. This initiative will use education, sensitization, and facilitation to ensure smooth onboarding. As a result, many business opportunities will open up for FPOs, NMSMEs, SHGs, women entrepreneurs, and startups.
The collaboration is expected to accelerate digital inclusion and facilitate the business development of these groups, ultimately benefiting their members and improving their livelihoods.
